Wanaka – Guide for Backpackers

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Walks and Hikes in Wanaka

Roys Peak (5-6 Hours Return)

This view of Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring is what people climb 1,300m (4,265ft) to Roys Peak for. So many have sat on the very same protruding rock as the guy pictured a token tourism photo you must take. The Roys Peak walking track is 5-6 hour return beginning along the Mt Aspiring road (6 minutes from Wanaka). Please note that the track is closed annually from 11-October 10-November.

Lakeside Walking Trails (Varying Times)

Doing a lakeside walk in Wanaka is just a matter of how far you want to go and for how long. From the town, head east to reach the likes of Eely Point, Beacon Point then meet up with a track taking you down the Clutha River. Alternatively, follow the lake from the west end of town to Stony Creek to Waterfall Creek and beyond. Of course.

Mt Iron Track (1h30min Loop)

The Mt Iron Track car park is well-signposted off State Highway 84 just as you leave Wanaka. The hike takes you to awesome views overlooking Wanaka and its surrounding mountains.

Upper Clutha River Track (4-5 Hours Return)

Follow the brilliantly blue Clutha River as it starts its journey from Lake Wanaka. This 16km (10-mile) track can be walked or biked. Start this walk either from Holiday Road or Kingston Street.

Newcastle Track (2 Hours Return)

Combine the Newcastle Track with the Upper Clutha River Track to make a loop. This extends your journey along the stunning Clutha River.

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Get Stuck in a 3D Maze at Puzzling World

Yes, Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World is as mad as it looks. Enjoy some simple fun yet total frustration when trying to figure out the illusions and escape The Great Maze! Allow yourself 30 minutes to an hour to complete this multi-storey maze. Also, remember your camera, as there are some hilarious illusions you’ll want to capture, such as the Ames Forces Perspective Room.

Even the toilets are an attraction you have to check out whether you are bursting for the toilet or not. Now, that is a commitment to illusions!

Book our tickets to Puzzling World on Viator or Tripadvisor.

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Ski and Snowboard at Treble Cone and Cardrona

Wanaka comes alive with avid skiers and riders in winter due to the town’s proximity to two excellent ski fields.

Treble Cone is the South Island’s largest ski field. Experienced skiers and riders favour it for its technical trails. Check out ski passes on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Cardrona has something for everyone including incredible terrain parks with varying kickers, rails and halfpipes. Check out ski passes on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Tip: Remember to take into account travel costs if you are not driving. Shuttle buses to the ski fields tend to be around NZ$35 return.

For more information, check out The 24 Ski Fields in New Zealand and What it is Like to Work on a New Zealand Ski Field.

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Adventure Activities in Wanaka

Don’t worry people who didn’t make the winter season, because mountain biking in Wanaka is a must-do in spring, summer and autumn! It’s a great way to explore the perimeter of Lake Wanaka and to do something incredible, such as getting far from the beaten track with a heli-biking tour.

Skydiving over Lake Wanaka gives one of the best views of the Central Otago region, encompassing mountains and lakes. Take the plunge at 15,000ft. Check out where else you can jump out of a plane: 11 Places to Tandem Skydive in New Zealand.

Meanwhile, back on land, delve into a deep canyoning adventure. Canyoning in the Wanaka area means manoeuvring waterfalls by abseiling, climbing and sliding. Find out more about canyoning tours on Viator and Tripadvisor. Plus, you get to jump off cliffs into deep pools. Alternatively, more adventures can be had with Wild Wire, a climbing adventure for the experienced climber or pure beginners. Check out Wild Wire on Viator and Tripadvisor.