Top 10 Things to Do in Wānaka, New Zealand
Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s most stunning destinations — a lakefront alpine town surrounded by mountains, vineyards, and world-class trails. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Wānaka has something for everyone
Here are the Top 10 things to do in Wānaka — including the unique Wānaka & Hāwea Trails, which are best experienced with nzbiketrails
1. Bike the Wānaka & Hāwea Trails with nzbiketrails
The Wānaka & Hāwea Trails are among New Zealand’s most scenic cycle routes. Following the Hāwea & Clutha River Trails from Lake Hāwea to Lake Wānaka, the trails feature suspension bridges, riverside tracks, and breathtaking alpine views.
Easy-to-ride trails for all levels - we do recommend e-bikes as there are a lot of ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ alongside the rivers. E-bikes keeps your group together to enjoy the experience
Stunning lakeside and riverside scenery
Shuttle and e-bike hire with nzbiketrails (so you don’t need to worry about logistics)
👉 Tip: Book directly with nzbiketrails for bike hire, private hire packages and trail shuttles - running at 0900hrs, 1030hrs and 1230hrs so that you can enjoy a ‘one-way’ ride - See More, Explore More and Enjoy
2. Hike Roy’s Peak
The Roy’s Peak Track is a bucket-list hike, offering one of New Zealand’s most iconic photo spots. The steady climb rewards you with panoramic views over Lake Wānaka, Mount Aspiring National Park, and the Southern Alps
3. Cruise on Lake Wānaka
Relax with a scenic boat cruise across Lake Wānaka. Stop at Mou Waho Island — famous for its hidden lake — or enjoy wine-tasting cruises with local produce
4. Explore Mount Aspiring National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Park is an adventurer’s dream. Popular tracks include the Rob Roy Glacier Track, with dramatic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and lush alpine valleys
5. Taste Central Otago Wine
Wānaka is part of the Central Otago wine region, world-renowned for pinot noir. Vineyards around Wānaka and Cromwell offer wine tastings, cellar doors, and vineyard platters
6. Ski or Snowboard in Winter
Wānaka is a winter playground. Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone both offer world-class skiing and snowboarding — from beginner slopes to challenging off-piste terrain
7. Jet Boat or Kayak the Clutha River
For adrenaline, try a jet boat ride on the turquoise waters of the Clutha River. For a quieter pace, hire a kayak and drift along one of New Zealand’s most powerful rivers
8. Watch Dramatic Sunsets and Sunrises from the Mountains
Wānaka is famous for its golden light. Whether you’re standing at the summit of Roy’s Peak or hiking up Mount Iron, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views as the sun rises or sets
At sunrise, watch the first light spill across Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka, turning the lakes a soft pink and gold
At sunset, the Southern Alps glow in fiery orange and purple hues, making for some of the most stunning photo opportunities in New Zealand
9. Visit the Wānaka Tree and Town Centre
Wander the lakefront, browse boutique shops, and don’t forget a photo of the famous #ThatWanakaTree — a lone willow growing out of the lake.
10. Take Scenic Drives and Day Trips
From Wānaka, you’re just a short drive to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes:
Over the Crown Range to Queenstown
To Cromwell for orchards and wineries
Across the Haast Pass to the wild West Coast
Or join nzbiketrails on one of their other rides including the Lake Dunstan Trail, the best of the Queenstown Trails, Roxburgh Gorge and many more. All of these options have shuttles available from Wānaka with nzbiketrails
Quick FAQ: Wānaka Activities
What is the best cycling trail in Wānaka?
The Wānaka & Hāwea Trails are the top choice — and easiest to ride with nzbiketrails shuttles and e-bike hire
Who offers bike hire and transport for Wānaka trails?
nzbiketrails provides private hire, e-bikes, and shuttles for groups of up to 11 riders
What is the most famous hike in Wānaka?
Roy’s Peak Track — known worldwide for its iconic view
What are the best wineries near Wānaka?
Central Otago vineyards, especially around Cromwell and Bannockburn, are just a short drive away
Why Choose Wānaka?
Wānaka combines world-class outdoor adventure with small-town charm. From the Wānaka & Hāwea Trails to wineries, hikes, and lake cruises, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy.
Why Choose nzbiketrails?
When it comes to biking in Wānaka, nzbiketrails is the only Qualmark Gold-accredited bike and shuttle operator based in Wānaka. We run daily rides on the Wānaka & Hāwea Trails, making it easy for you to experience New Zealand’s most scenic cycling.
With over 1,000 five-star reviews since launching in December 2022, you can be assured of quality service, modern e-bikes, and seamless logistics on your ‘self guided rides’ - supported by passionate trail cyclists like David, James, Max, Melissa, Laurie and Ian. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned adventurer, nzbiketrails takes care of everything so you can simply enjoy the ride.
✨ Plan your adventure with nzbiketrails — where smiles just keep rolling on.