Lake Wanaka typifies the life most people associate with New Zealand - a relaxed lifestyle with excellent sporting opportunities, cafes, shops and restaurants.

It is situated in the northern area of the Southern Lakes, on the sunny southern shores of a crystal clear lake, with the backdrop of the dramatic Mount Aspiring National Park and New Zealand Southern Alps.

If what you enjoy is time outdoors, then Wanaka has more than enough to offer. Three world class ski fields are within half an hour's drive. Treble Cone and Cardrona provide alpine and back-country skiing and the Waiorau Snow Farm has nordic skiing facilities and the Snow Park for snow boarders. Find out more about skiing in Wanaka.

Wanaka is the gateway to the spectacular Mount Aspiring National Park with its numerous tramping and alpine recreation options. In summer, boating and fishing for trout and salmon are popular both in Lake Wanaka and the numerous large rivers in the region. See our Wanaka Vacation Planner for more information.

For those who prefer to relax, there is plenty to indulge in - numerous art and craft galleries, the Warbirds museum, wonderful cafes and restaurants; as well as wine-tasting at the local vineyards. Sun on the beaches or take a lakeside stroll.

A number of world-class events also occur. Biannually, around Easter, is the three-day air show, Warbirds over Wanaka, the largest air show in the Southern Hemisphere and in Winter, the Big Air - an exciting snow board and skiing show on a man-made slope.

There are also numerous music festivals, art shows, and sporting events happening throughout the year - see the Events section for more information.

Cardrona - The historic Cardrona Valley and Crown Range road join Wanaka to Queenstown. One of New Zealand’s oldest hotels, the Cardrona Hotel, has been recently refurbished and is located in the small Cardrona Village.

Lake Hawea - A long narrow, glacial lake, it is the smallest and most northerly of the New Zealand Southern Lakes. It is quiet and relaxed, and provides a tranquil alternative to nearby Wanaka and Queenstown.

Makarora - Situated at the head of Lake Wanaka, Makarora is a small community in New Zealand's magnificent Southern Alps. Providing easy access to the Mount Aspiring National Park, Makarora offers many walking opportunities.