Top Wanaka Extreme Sports

Inject some thrills into your sightseeing as you whip down Central Otago’s Clutha River at high speeds on a thrilling jet boating experience. Race around Lake Wanaka and down the winding river, through rapids and tunnels, tight channels and tighter corners, on this compact and comprehensive journey that’ll get you back to shore in time for your afternoon or evening plans.

The wide, blue Clutha River is flanked by glacial terraces and stunning New Zealand bush. Speed down the river on this jet boat trip through Upper Clutha Valley, take photos of the towering Southern Alps, and thrill at the river’s long winding stretches and switchback corners. This exciting 1-hour 15-minute excursion shows you parts of New Zealand’s South Island you can’t get to any other way.

Explore the idyllic landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park, where filming for The Lord of the Rings movies took place, both by land and water, on this action-packed half-day tour from Wanaka. Zip along the pristine waters of the Matukituki River on a jet boat, then get even closer to nature on a guided wilderness walk past forests, waterfalls, and glacier-fed streams.

The Twin Falls are two waterfalls in the picturesque Mt. Aspiring National Park, a short drive from Wānaka. Most visitors just see them from the road, but you can get up close on this level 1 climb that’s suitable for beginners. See the national park from a new perspective on the via ferrata route while challenging yourself physically and mentally.

Adventurous travelers will love this moderately challenging waterfall climb up towering waterfalls, with epic views along the way and from the top. Climb steel ladders and cross high, narrow bridges. Enjoy a sandwich and sweet treat lunch beside beautiful falls. While no experience is required and full safety briefings are given, this trip is best suited to active travelers who are sure-footed and unafraid of heights.

Fly high above the beautiful Lake Wanaka with Wanaka Parasailing on either a single, or a tandem flight. This is one of the best things to do in Wanaka, book your flight today!

Immerse yourself in the environment and truly connect with nature Learn climbing and canyoning in one tour Enjoy stunning mountain and lake views. Get up close and personal with waterfalls Feel an adrenaline rush as you rappel down 6 waterfalls

Learn how to climb or improve your skills on a rock-climbing tour in the Matukituki Valley from Wanaka. You'll have the chance to experience this popular outdoor activity under the guidance of an instructor, who helps you maximize your climbing time and provides safety and technical tips. This is designed for first-time climbers or those who've only climbed on an indoor wall.

Saddle up and explore New Zealand’s rugged wilderness on this half-day Cardrona High Country Pub Trail horse-riding trek. Learn about historical locales along the winding mountain trails from your guide. Pass through a working cattle farm, traverse choppy rivers, and enjoy panoramic views. Stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel for a complimentary drink, then return to base along the Cardrona River. Best suited to riders with at least intermediate-level experience.

Explore scenic Lake Wānaka, New Zealand’s fourth-largest lake, aboard a state-of-the-art jet ski. Led by an experienced guide, admire the surrounding islands, bays, and alpine scenery. Each watercraft holds two people and no prior jet skiing experience is necessary. Receive personalized attention on an intimate small-group tour. Learn more about this picturesque ecosystem while also enjoying an adrenaline rush.

Get far away from the crowds on this 4x4 day trip from Wanaka. Start with a boat ride across Lake Wanaka, then get exclusive access to the Mt. Burke Station. Hop aboard the 4x4 vehicle there and drive up into the mountains. Your guide will tell you stories from Otago’s pioneer history and the gold rush era. Enjoy a delicious picnic with spectacular lake and mountain views.

This once in a lifetime hike takes visitors into the dramatic mountain range through the high road, allowing them spectacular views of the surrounding vistas and of Lake Wanaka. Succumb to the comforts of the four-wheel drive and learn expert knowledge of the local flora and fauna from a professional guide.

Climb your way up to some otherwise-inaccessible views of Lake Wānaka and Mt. Aspiring National Park on this full-day private rock climbing trip in the Matukituki Valley. If you’re new to climbing, learn from your qualified instructor without competing for attention on a private tour. More experienced climbers will find challenging routes suited to their skills and opportunities to develop their skills further in a beautiful setting.

Wānaka is surrounded by rolling alpine farmland, but most of it is privately owned and inaccessible. This small-group half-day tour opens the gate to one of those farms, the massive West Wānaka Station. Explore the Central Otago backcountry in a rugged 4-wheel-drive vehicle, stopping for astonishing photo opportunities against the backdrop of Lake Wānaka, the Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Adventurous travelers will love the chance to try lead climbing in Wānaka. If you have some climbing experience already, this is a great next step. The instructor-to-client ratio is a maximum of 1:4, so you get help when you need it. Get a great workout while enjoying mountain views and fresh air and learning new skills.