Things To Do In Wanaka

Start your adventure with a tuk tuk!

Let someone else take the wheel and ride in style with Wānaka’s Tuk Tuk Taxi. Whether you’re heading out for a family day, a romantic escape, or a scenic adventure, hopping in a tuk tuk is a fun, sustainable way to get around town. Explore these local gems – you’ll find something for everyone.

Family Day Out

Lavender farm

An absolute gem. Stroll through vibrant lavender fields, meet friendly farm animals, play lawn games and relax with a cuppa at the tea shop. A lovely spot for all ages, with lots of photo opportunities.

Puzzling World

A world of illusion, with mind-bending rooms, a massive outdoor maze and loads of interactive fun. Great for curious kids (and adults!) who love a challenge.

Wānaka Wastebusters

Get treasure hunting! Wānaka’s legendary op shop is packed with secondhand gems – from bikes and books to clothes and furniture. Don’t miss the kids’ fill-a-bag deal: just $5 for a bag of toys, books, clothes and shoes.

National Transport & Toy museum

Step back in time with this huge collection of classic cars, planes, toys and models. A nostalgic journey for grown-ups and a dream day out for little ones.

SITE

Jump into the action at SITE – the ultimate indoor trampolining experience. Burn off some energy and have a blast, rain or shine.

Cinema Paradiso

Wānaka’s quirkiest cinema, complete with comfy sofas, vintage vibes, and freshly baked cookies at intermission. Cosy, charming and one-of-a-kind.

Date Day

Hook – Lake to Plate Dining

Catch your own fish and have it cooked on-site in beautiful surroundings. A peaceful, hands-on experience perfect for sharing.

Paddle Wānaka

Hire a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake at your own pace. A refreshing way to take in the mountain views together.

CrossFire

It offers a wide variety of equipment, and customizable characters, contributing to its appeal among FPS enthusiasts.

Red bridge berry farm

Berry farms are popular destinations for families, offering a combination of outdoor recreation, fresh produce.
Open from mid-November until the end of April every year.

Date Night

Bistro Gentil

A refined French restaurant offering beautiful views and a delicious menu focused on fresh, local produce from across Otago. A romantic spot for a special night out.

Kika

A vibrant dining spot with bold flavours, beautiful small plates designed to share, and a warm, intimate atmosphere. One of Wānaka’s best for a relaxed but special night.

Verve

Tucked away and cosy, Verve is a great spot for drinks and live music. Enjoy cocktails, local wine or beer, and great conversation.

Cardrona Hotel

This iconic hotel offers excellent photo opportunities, delicious food, a spacious beer garden and a cosy interior. A must-do.

Sofi

Sofi brings a taste of the Mediterranean to Wānaka. A place to share mouthwatering food, raise a glass, and connect over great conversation.

Francesca

From fresh pasta to wood-fired pizza, Francesca’s dishes celebrate classic Italian flavours, with global touches and a nod to Aotearoa.

For the Adventurers

Roys Peak

One of New Zealand’s most iconic walks. Start early to catch the sunrise from the summit – a truly unforgettable experience with panoramic views.

Diamond Lake

A slightly easier but equally rewarding walk with sweeping lake and mountain views. The Diamond Lake track leads to this incredible lookout – a favourite with locals.

Skydive Wānaka

Soar above the Southern Alps, lakes and rivers with a tandem skydive. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, the views from above are unbeatable.

Bike Glendhu

Explore epic trails – this purpose-built mountain bike park has something for every skill level, from cruisy greens to gnarly black runs.

Lakeland Wānaka

Adventure on the water with high-speed jet boat rides along the stunning Clutha River.

Wānaka Water Taxi

With daily tours and great packages to choose from, Wānaka Water Taxi is the perfect way to add a splash of adventure to your Wānaka stay.

Lake Wānaka Cruises

Explore the lake in style with Lake Wānaka Cruises. Their 17m catamaran Dual Image offers smooth, scenic trips with plenty of space to relax, while Moutimu, their fast water taxi, gets you to the lake’s hidden gems in comfort.

Foodie Finds

Big Fig

Fast, slow food done right – wholesome, filling and flavoursome meals with Middle Eastern flair.

Scroggin Café

A locals' favourite for breakfast, coffee and baking - cosy and always welcoming.

Pembroke Patisserie

A short ride away but worth it - famous for flaky croissants, great coffee and a relaxed outdoor setting.

Hawea Store and Kitchen

Stunning views, delicious breakfasts and great coffee.

Wineries Worth the Ride

Nanny Goat Vineyard

Tucked away in the Lowburn foothills, this boutique winery offers premium Central Otago pinot noir and a beautiful tasting room with a relaxed, modern vibe. Well worth the short trip.

Māori Point Vineyard

Set beside the Clutha River, this family-owned winery combines sustainable practices with award-winning wines. Sip a glass of pinot while enjoying peaceful riverside views and learning the story behind each vintage.

Aitken’s Folly Vineyard

Just minutes from town, this small, hands-on vineyard is known for its excellent wines and laid-back tastings hosted by the winemakers themselves.

Rippon

Wānaka’s iconic winery, perched above the lake with views you’ll never forget. Their biodynamic wines reflect the land they come from – a must-visit, even for locals.

Pembroke Wine & Spirits

A boutique tasting room and bottle shop offering wine, beer and spirit flights in central Wānaka. Cosy in winter, sunny in summer — the perfect spot to relax and explore something new.

The Stoaker Room

Experience Central Otago’s unique “barrel cuisine,” with local meats and produce cooked in Pinot Noir barrels. Try the signature Stoaker Banquet with wine pairings or relax with a craft beer and bar snacks at the bistro bar.