Things to Do in Wanaka (without a car)
Updated: Sep 18
Wanaka was one of my favourite places in New Zealand. A smaller version of Queenstown, it provides you with all the incredible views and activities without being overcrowded or too touristy. I spent 2 days here but could have stayed longer; it was such a laid-back town with lots to do. Here is a list of the best things to do in Wanaka (without a car), including hikes, adventure activities, and more.
For more things to do in New Zealand and a full guide on getting around without a car, check out my post here.
The Best Things to do in Wanaka
Hiking in Wanaka
Glendhu Bay
The trail to Glendhu Bay runs along Lake Wanaka. It’s a fairly long hike but not too strenuous, some up and down but mostly flat. It’s also incredibly quiet - I only passed a few dog walkers on the way. The views were fantastic the whole way, and the lake was so peaceful. It took me around 5 hours with a break for lunch.
Roy’s Peak
If you’ve seen pictures of New Zealand, the view from the top of Roy’s Peak is probably one of them. I recommend doing this hike for sunrise. It takes about 2 hours to summit, and the trailhead is about a 10-15 minute drive from town. As I didn’t have a car, I booked a shared taxi with Yellow Taxis to take me there. It cost around NZ$7 per person one way. It was absolutely freezing at the top waiting for sunrise though, so be prepared with layers and blankets. I’m not exaggerating! I was there in November and the ground at the top was frozen. Dry clothes to prevent your sweat cooling you down would help as well. As expected, the golden hues of sunrise over Lake Wanaka and the mountains was incredible. Heading down took under 2 hours, and I ended up hitching a ride back to town with some travellers. You can also call the taxi company again if you’d prefer not to do that, or walk back along the Glendhu Bay trail, although this will add another couple of hours to your morning.
Isthmus Peak
Isthmus Peak is located a little further outside of Wanaka town, and you most likely need a car or taxi to access the trailhead. Unfortunately I did not get the chance to do it because of this, but have heard from some that it was more impressive than Roy’s Peak!
That Wanaka Tree
Every picture of Wanaka features the famous tree standing in the lake. It is a very overhyped landmark, and in fact if you keep walking down the Glendhu Bay trail, you’ll see many more ‘Wanaka Trees’ standing in the water. But it’s worth taking a look at anyway. You won’t miss it as it always has a crowd of people standing next to it on the beach. Please don’t go and swim up to the tree! It has been severely damaged because of people doing this.
Adventure Activities
Lake Wanaka is host to many lake-based activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. You can also go swimming in the lake - it is freezing but worth it! Skydiving is also an option here and I don’t think the views would disappoint.
Ice Cream
I highly recommend heading over to Patagonia Ice Cream, located right by the lakefront beach. The selection of ice cream and desserts is incredible, including lots of vegan options!
I hope this gives you a good overview of things to do in Wanaka and how to get around the town and to the trailheads without a car. As always, please look after this incredible area of nature, and only leave your footprints behind :)
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