Wānaka Holidays

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Your Wanaka Holiday

Take the hassle out of organising your next amazing adventure with a Wanaka holiday package. Whether you're interested in its cuisine, history, art or something else, this city offers endless possibilities for fun. Ready to get out and explore? Rippon Vineyard, Wanaka Lavender Farm and Puzzling World are just a few of the top-rated places to visit during your trip to Wanaka. Don't delay exploring this destination any longer. The perfect Wanaka holiday is a couple of clicks away with Expedia.

Things to do in and around Wānaka

Wānaka is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance, offering breathtaking scenery and a range of activities. Visitors can enjoy skiing at nearby fields, explore charming shopping areas, and partake in thrilling adventure tours. With numerous fun and outdoor activities available, Wānaka is perfect for those looking for a memorable getaway filled with excitement and relaxation.

Shopping

In Wānaka, you can explore local boutiques and artisan shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Cromwell Shopping Centre, 38.6km away, for a lively shopping experience and Remarkables Park Town Centre, 48.3km away, which offers a variety of shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Wānaka Golf Club, surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and sport. Alternatively, head to Crossfire Wānaka for a unique golfing experience amidst beautiful natural scenery. For a broader sports vibe, visit the Queenstown Event Centre, just 48.3km away.

Adventure

Treble Cone Ski Area offers exhilarating skiing experiences with stunning views, located 20.9km from Wānaka. For a fun family outing, explore Puzzling World’s intriguing maze. If climbing is your passion, visit Basecamp Wānaka Climbing Centre for thrilling outdoor adventures and sport activities right in town.

Nightlife

Wānaka's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Enjoy a lively evening at the iconic Kiwi and Co, or opt for a more laid-back vibe at the renowned Dog Room, where you can savour craft beers and local wines.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Wānaka

Wānaka, located in Otago, New Zealand, is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore the scenic Lake Wānaka, stroll through the charming town centre, and marvel at the iconic Wanaka Tree. The area also features cultural attractions such as a transport museum, a beautiful flower garden, and notable landmarks, ensuring a delightful experience for families and those seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes.

  • Wānaka Lavender Farm: Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues and soothing scents of the Wānaka Lavender Farm. This charming flower garden offers a delightful outdoor experience perfect for families, where you can stroll through rows of lavender, enjoy locally made lavender products, and capture beautiful photos amid the blooms.
  • That Wānaka Tree: A true icon of the region, That Wānaka Tree stands gracefully in the waters of Lake Wānaka, just 1.6km from the town. This symbolic landmark is steeped in local culture, making it a picturesque spot for photography and reflection, especially at sunrise and sunset.
  • Mount Iron Lookout: Experience breathtaking panoramic views from Mount Iron Lookout, situated within Wānaka. This lookout is ideal for outdoor adventurers and romantics alike, offering a rewarding hike with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and Lake Wānaka.

Best time to go to Wānaka

The best time to visit Wanaka can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Wanaka falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Wanaka falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June38.1°F (3.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July35.6°F (2.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Wānaka

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically May to June and October) for more affordable package holidays to Wānaka.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Wanaka Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
New Zealand dollars
Closest Airport
Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN)
Population
4,400
Max Temp Winter
7ºC
Max Temp Summer
13ºC
Top Sights
Rippon Vineyard, Mount Iron Lookout and Puzzling World

Top hotels in Wānaka

Edgewater

Edgewater

54 Sargood Drive Wanaka
£166
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"Great quiet location and good sized room."

Reviewed on 5 Jul 2026

Edgewater
Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

144-154 Anderson Road Wanaka
£183
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (852 reviews)
"Spacious accommodation (we had a 2-bedroom apartment), super comfortable beds, and the most incredible water pressure in the shower! Full size fridge, well equipped kitchen. Stunning views. Nice hot tub & sauna. Convenient indoor parking in a private garage adjacent to the apartment. Very friendly ..."

Reviewed on 9 Aug 2026

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Wanaka Hotel

Wanaka Hotel

71 Ardmore Street Wanaka
£110
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (763 reviews)
"Central to Wānaka. Rooms were cold and tired."

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2026

Wanaka Hotel
See all 616 properties in Wānaka
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Wanaka Ski Holiday Packages

Do things your way with one of our Wanaka ski holiday packages. Whether you're looking for mountainside thrills, tranquillity at altitude or even both, the perfect getaway starts with Expedia. One of the most sought-after snow sports destinations in New Zealand, Wanaka has around 78 ski runs that are in operation from December to April every year. Before tackling the slopes, pick up gear from the ski village. Then grab your poles and enjoy powder, mogul or backcountry skiing. If you're out of form, get in snow shape in a beginners' area. There's also a day spa to make use of here. After a thrilling day of slopeside adventures, your aching limbs will be in the mood for a relaxing massage and treatment. The whole gang will have a blast on your family ski holiday in Wanaka, with fabulous activities such as snow biking, nordic skiing and snowshoeing on the menu too.

How To Get Around

Pick up one of Expedia's Wanaka holiday packages and your next fabulous adventure is just a flight away. After disembarking at Calgary Airport, it's two and a half hours to get to this terrific ski resort. From the middle of Wanaka, the trails are around one hour away by car and parking is free. During winter, it's best to carry snow chains. Purchase a season-pass, half-day, weekend-pass or full-day ticket and get your snowy adventure started. It's a breeze to save on a ski holiday with Expedia's Wanaka ski package deals. Bundle your hotel, flights and car rental and use the spare cash in your pocket for good times on the slopes.

Wanaka Things to do

With three venues that dish up food, drinks and great times, après-ski will be as much a part of your ski holiday as the skiing itself! This resort is noted for its fabulous dining at places like T-Bar Pub and Grill. Festivals, live music and a busy nightlife add to the cool vibes of Wanaka. After your Wanaka ski holiday, plan another escape and sample this destination in summer! Activities including mountain biking, horse riding, golfing and hiking begin when the snow starts to thaw. Whenever you choose to visit, be sure to add a few wonderful experiences to your Expedia holiday package.

Wanaka Resort Ski Info

Average yearly snowfall
29.9 ft
Elevation of lowest ski lift
4,767 ft
Cost of 1-day lift pass
Under £85
Easy runs
12
Moderate runs
31
Advanced runs
35
Longest run
4.3 mi
All Inclusive Holidays
All Inclusive Holidays
Beach Holidays
Beach Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Family Friendly Holidays
Golf Holidays
Golf Holidays
Luxury Holidays
Luxury Holidays
gay friendly holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
LGBTQ+ Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Romantic Holidays
Ski Holidays
Ski Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Pet Friendly Holidays
Holiday in Month
Where to go when
Where to go when

Stay near popular Wānaka attractions

A vineyard with rows of grapevines, a lake, and mountains in the background.

Rippon Vineyard

9.0/10 (92 reviews)
Rippon Vineyard showcases Central Otago's oldest vines on the shores of Lake Wānaka with panoramic alpine views. Sample their biodynamic wines during an intimate tasting experience, where terroir truly shines.
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A tilted sign for the Leaning Tower of Wanaka, New Zealand, with a person sitting nearby.

Puzzling World

9.0/10 (276 reviews)
Step into a world of mind-bending optical illusions at Puzzling World, where perception meets playful deception. Challenge your senses in the tilted rooms and test your navigation skills in the Great Maze.
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A golf course with a mountainous backdrop.

Wānaka Golf Club

8.0/10 (25 reviews)
Nestled among mature trees, Wānaka Golf Club offers spectacular views of Lake Wānaka and surrounding mountains. Enjoy a round on the meticulously maintained fairways before unwinding at the clubhouse café.
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A gravel path leading to a farm gate with a sign reading "Wanaka Lavender Farm."

Wānaka Lavender Farm

9.0/10 (111 reviews)
Wander through 20 acres of fragrant purple blooms at this picturesque alpine farm. Savour lavender-infused ice cream while watching alpacas graze against New Zealand's mountain backdrop.
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A town nestled in a valley with mountains in the background.

Mount Iron Lookout

9.4/10 (52 reviews)
This glacier-carved knoll offers a rewarding 360-degree panorama of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps. Hike the 1.5-hour loop track at sunrise for spectacular golden light across the Upper Clutha Basin.
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A park with a paved path, trees, a lake, and mountains in the background.

Pembroke Park

8.4/10 (40 reviews)
This expansive green space offers stunning views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along scenic pathways or bring a picnic to savour amid the breathtaking mountain backdrop.
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A building with a sign reading "Transport & Toy Museum".

National Transport & Toy Museum

9.0/10 (25 reviews)
Discover one of the Southern Hemisphere's largest private collections of vintage vehicles and nostalgic toys. Explore interactive exhibits with aircraft cockpits and marvel at over 100,000 unique collectibles.
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Snowfarm NZ

7.6/10 (12 reviews)
New Zealand's premier cross-country ski destination with 55km of groomed trails in the stunning Southern Alps. Glide through pristine snow landscapes or book a night in a backcountry hut for a true alpine experience.
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What to do in Wānaka

Wanaka Water Taxi Mou Waho Island Tour

Wanaka Water Taxi Mou Waho Island Tour

£60
per adult
Wanaka Water Taxi Mou Waho Island Tour
Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails

Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails

£56
per adult
Bike the Wanaka and Hawea Trails
Wānaka to Queenstown: A Self-Guided Drive via the Crown Range

Wānaka to Queenstown: A Self-Guided Drive via the Crown Range

£6
per traveller
Wānaka to Queenstown: A Self-Guided Drive via the Crown Range
See all activities in Wānaka

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Wanaka holiday with Expedia?
With exceptional-value airfares, car hire and accommodation choices all in one place, Expedia makes arranging your Wanaka break hassle-free. What's more, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can enjoy even more savings. Choose from amazing properties, add flights and/or a car hire (and maybe also some exciting activities!) and land incredible prices. Need to cancel? Expedia offers a flexible cancellation policy for many reservations. To discover more, check out our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Wanaka?
Peak season falls in May, September and October and is an exciting time to visit — if you don't mind rubbing elbows with the crowds. February, November and December are usually quieter times of the year. With daytime average temperatures of 1ºC, July is the coolest month in Wanaka. The warmest month is February, when you can expect averages of 13ºC throughout the day. Whatever the weather conditions, you'll find a whole lot to keep you entertained here.
What is the top hotel for my holiday in Wanaka?
Offering plenty of amenities and home comforts, Bella Vista Queenstown will make the ideal base for your Wanaka holiday.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Wanaka?
One of the easiest ways to save pounds (and time) is to bundle your bookings with Expedia. Flights, hotels, activities and hire cars — we've got them all. Choose the combination that suits you and see your savings grow. Of course, holidays are never a one-size-fits-all. That's why Expedia offers over 400 air carriers and 321,000 hotel options around the globe, so you can customise your Wanaka holiday your way. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What should I do on my Wanaka holiday?
There's an almost endless list of things to keep you busy while on a holiday in Wanaka. Rippon Vineyard, Wanaka Lavender Farm, Puzzling World and Roys Peak are just some of this city's leading attractions.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Wanaka?
If you plan to visit Lake Wanaka, maximise your time sightseeing and lock in a stay close by. It's one of the top attractions in Wanaka.
Do I need a visa for my Wanaka holiday?
Visa requirements for Wanaka vary depending on your nationality and reason for your visit. Make sure you check official government websites to determine if you need a visa for your holiday. They'll give you the most up-to-date information, including details about application procedures or any supporting documentation that may be necessary. Research your visa requirements in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience. Finally, make sure your passport has at least six months validity from your date of return.
What should I wear on my Wanaka holiday?
Although everyone's fashion style varies, it can be useful to have some guidelines for what to bring on your holiday in Wanaka. Think about looking up social media before you go for inspiration on fashion trends or dress codes. Daytime temperatures during July, Wanaka's coolest month, average around 1ºC. February marks this destination's warmest month when the average reaches 13ºC. Our tip? Take the guesswork out of what to pack and check the local weather forecast.
What does an Expedia Wanaka holiday include?
With Expedia, you can choose a combination of car hires, flights and hotels to create your ideal Wanaka travel package. Once you've made your booking, simply add on all the fun stuff like activities and tours. Remember, the more you bundle, the more cash you'll save! Expedia features different kinds of properties, with the most sought after in Wanaka including private holiday homes and apartments. With Expedia, you'll always have the freedom and flexibility to personalise your holiday your way.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Wanaka holidays?
Expedia has teamed up with online lender Klarna to make your next break easier on the purse strings. Paying in instalments means you can spread the costs of your next big adventure, leaving you with more cash to spend while you're away. Klarna has several payment plans to choose from, so you're sure to find something that suits your budget. Browse these flexible payment options:
  • Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers payments in multiple instalments that suit all types of budgets, so you can escape on that well-deserved holiday sooner.
  • No-deposit holidays: When you want to grab an amazing deal but your budget doesn't quite cover it yet, Klarna's no-deposit holiday plan will allow you to Book Now, Pay Later to lock it in.
Can I choose my airline with a Wanaka Expedia holiday?
Definitely. Expedia has more than 400 airline partners to choose from across the world. With such a huge range of choices, finding the ideal carrier to whisk you away to Wanaka will be a snap.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.