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Travel Guide of Lake Wanaka in New Zealand by Influencers and Travelers


Lake Wānaka is New Zealand's fourth-largest lake. In the Otago region, it is 278 meters above sea level, covers 192 km², and is more than 300 m deep. The original Māori name Oanaka means 'The place of Anaka', a local tribal chief. The town near the foot of the lake is named Wanaka.


Pictures and Stories of Lake Wanaka from Influencers

13 pictures of Lake Wanaka from Casey Horner, Esaias Tan, Tyler Lastovich and other travelers


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  Map of Lake Wanaka

View Lake Wanaka on a map with the the closest popular places nearby




   More Travel spots to explore around Lake Wanaka

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Discover more travel spots to explore around Lake Wanaka

  🏞️ Loch spots     ⛰️ Hill spots     🏞️ Lake spots     ⛰️ Mountain range spots     Stand up paddle surfing spots     ⛰️ Highland spots     ⛰️ Summit spots     ⛰️ Hill station spots     🚣‍♂️‍ Kayaking spots  

Learn More about Lake Wanaka

Lake Wanaka is located in the South Island of New Zealand, in the Otago region, at an altitude of 983 feet (300 m). Covering 74.1 square miles (192 km2), it is the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand. Embedded at the foot of majestic mountains, Lake Wanaka is considered as the most tranquil lake on the South Island. Snow-capped mountains are reflected in the crystal blue waters, creating incredible views. At one end of the lake, halfway between Haast and Queenstown, the town of the same name has been built. The town attracts a lot of tourists, whether it's for a picnic on the shore or a long hike on the surrounding hills and mountains. Wanaka also boasts some of the best adventure activities in New Zealand. Wanaka is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand to try skydiving. Then, the jet boat which offers you first a relatively calm ride before making the adrenaline rise is something to do. Horse riding, quad biking, canoeing, you will have the choice to discover the surroundings of the Lake. Embark on a boat tour on the lake to get to the points of interest of the lake. You can even opt for a guided kayak or paddle trip. Don't miss the famous "that Wanaka tree" located at the extreme west of Roys Bay. The Wanaka area has very good facilities for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts. Roys Peak is one of the most popular hikes in Wanaka. Like any climb, it is not easy, but the view from the top will make you forget all your efforts. 9.9 miles (16 km) round trip, for about 5h30 of walking. Rob Roy Glacier. This 6.2 miles (10 km) round trip hike (about 3h30) crosses a river on a suspension bridge, winds along a gorge and then enters a forest before ending in a valley from which you will have an incredible view of the Rob Roy glacier. During your hikes, you will have a magnificent view of Mount Aspiring, so don't hesitate to visit it while you are in the area. Lake Wanaka offers many activities to discover its beautiful landscape, an ideal destination for those with a thirst for adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Lake Wanaka

Is there public transportation to go to Lake Wanaka ?

No, don't count on transport service to go to Lake Wanaka. But there are shuttle services to some of the more popular trails. We recommend renting a car, you can rent one directly from Queenstown airport, only 1 hour from Wanaka.
Wanaka is very close to Mount Aspiring National Park, so you can take a tour while you are in the area!
Lake Wanaka and its surroundings offer many activities to discover the beauty of its landscapes, lovers of discovery and thrills do not hesitate.

Yes, you can access the lake for free, and many activities are free such as walks around the lake.

Yes you can swim in the lake, we recommend you to go to Glendhu Bay, Lakefront Beach, Blue Pools, Crucible Lake which are the best diving and swimming spots.













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