Top Wanaka Outdoor Activities - page 2

Saddle up for a horseback ride through the wild landscapes of the Cardrona Valley near Wānaka. Trace the path of the 19th-century gold rush, climb the mountains for a thrilling view over Lake Wānaka, and trot or gallop through the valley plains. Rides can be tailored for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders—state your experience level when booking so you are paired with an appropriate horse.

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

A fully hosted day where your Guest Experience Manager (who you will have a direct phone number for) will ensure you are set up to have a great ride and experience. The Lake Dunstan Trail is one an Official NZ Great Ride and possibly the best one-day NZ Great Ride in New Zealand. nzbiketrails is a Qualmark Gold accredited company - meaning that we a provider delivering within the top 10% of New Zealand Experiences. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional levels of Guest services which is represented by our reviews. Our aim is to help guests see the beauty of New Zealand, on great bikes, led by passionate trail riders who love what they do. We also aim to 'do good' in the communities that we operate in.

Wanaka fishing charters offer a unique and interesting experience for several reasons: 1. Stunning Scenery: Lake Wanaka is set in the picturesque Southern Alps, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your fishing adventure. 2. Diverse Fish Species: The lake is home to a variety of fish, including brown and rainbow trout, and salmon making it an attractive destination for anglers of all skill levels. 3. Experienced Guides: charters provide an experienced fishing guide who knows the lake well and can offer valuable tips and insights to enhance your fishing experience. 4. Wildlife Sightings: In addition to fishing, you may have the chance to see local wildlife like birds and perhaps even glimpses of the elusive native bird, the takahe. 6. Relaxing Environment: Lake Wanaka provides a serene and tranquil environment, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely day of fishing, relaxation, and appreciation of nature.

Enjoy high-octane thrills in the New Zealand wilderness without the hassle of equipment rentals on this small-group Cardrona Valley quad bike experience. Spin off into the mountains of the mighty Cardrona Valley with your guide who will navigate the winding dirt tracks so you won't get lost. Enjoy panoramic views over the wilds of New Zealand’s South Island.

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 picnic 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.

3 Hour guided kayak on Lake Wanaka Includes optional Ruby Island walk Fun, scenic, and accessible for all paddlers approx 7km

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!

tart your journey on the calm waters of Lake Wānaka, where mist lingers on the surface and the mountains rise all around you. In just three hours, you’ll cast your line into some of the most scenic fishing waters in New Zealand. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll learn proven techniques like trolling and downrigging to target trout and salmon. Our boat is powered by a quiet electric trolling motor, letting you glide silently through the water—perfect for sneaking up on fish and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. As you fish beneath the peaks of Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone, you’ll feel far from the crowds, fully immersed in nature. With small groups (max 6 people), snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included, this trip is designed for comfort, focus, and the thrill of the catch. It’s not just a fishing trip—it’s a moment of calm, a burst of excitement, and a memory made in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

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 is a cutting edge experience that everyone over 10 can enjoy. Not just Gamers. No experience required, take a leap and see what the future of entertainment will become. This is the largest dedicated Virtual Reality experience in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the largest Infinity Platform establishment currently in the world. We recommend groups of up to four but some games can take 6, 8, 10 or even 12!

Journey from Wanaka to Queenstown, soaking in the stunning views of the Southern Alps and Cardrona Valley. This small group tour is fully guided and designed for comfort, making stops at iconic sites like the historic Cardrona Hotel and the breathtaking Crowne Range lookout. Your passionate guide will share insightful stories along the way, creating a memorable experience. Travel in a modern, comfortable minibus with a small group. Visit the historic Cardrona Hotel and enjoy the scenic Crowne Range Lookout.

Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s top wine regions, producing well-respected reds and whites in alpine vineyards, but it’s risky to sample wines and drive around the region. On this afternoon tour, visit four boutique wineries and taste some of their award-winning offerings. Learn the secrets behind the wines from the winemakers themselves, and enjoy a platter lunch matched with award-winning wines. The small-group tour provides an intimate atmosphere.

In other parts of the world, it may take several days to trek to places as beautiful as the Rob Roy Glacier, but we offer this experience in a World Heritage Area, in just one day! Our experienced local guides are with you from pick-up to drop-off, offering their knowledge of the area, it's history, flaura & fauna. The day begins with a scenic drive around Lake Wanaka into the Matukituki Valley. After driving through several fords, we arrive at Raspberry Hut. From here, this guided hike begins along the banks of the Matukituki River. We enter Mt Aspiring National Park via a swing bridge, crossing the river. The walk steadily climbs through New Zealand Beech Rainforest with a wide variety of flaura & fauna. After walking for 2.5 hours, the forest drops away and we enter open ground. Here the beauty of Rob Roy Glacier unfolds. Take time to relax and enjoy one of the best views Mother Nature offers, whilst enjoying a gourmet packed lunch!

This self-guided audio driving tour takes you on a stunning, two-hour journey from Wānaka to Queenstown via the scenic Crown Range and historic Arrowtown. It is a trip through natural drama, rich gold-rush history, and quirky landmarks. Key highlights of the tour include: Driving New Zealand’s highest sealed alpine road, the Crown Range. Visiting iconic landmarks like That Wānaka Tree and the historic Cardrona Hotel. Passing by the famous and quirky Cardrona Bra Fence. Exploring the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown. Hearing stories of Māori trailblazers, explorers, and skiing pioneers. This tour can be combined with the 'Queenstown to Wānaka' tour for a complete circular route. Would you like me to find out more details about either of the mentioned tours?

Soar high above Wānaka and take in breathtaking views of the stunning landscape on this winter scenic flight. The 25-minute journey offers an unforgettable alpine snow landing at 1200m, where you can admire the beauty of Lake Wanaka and the township below, along with glimpses of the majestic Mount Roy Peak and Mount Aspiring. This family-friendly flight is ideal for those short on time but eager to experience the region's winter charm and scenic splendor. - 25-minute scenic flight on Mt Alpha showcasing Wānaka's winter beauty - Alpine landing at 1200m with panoramic views - Family-friendly adventure suitable for all ages - Snow landing subject to snowfall and weather conditions

Join us for an exhilarating craft beer adventure, exploring Wanaka's top-notch breweries with delectable food pairings on our self-guided e-Bike tours. Immerse yourself in a safe, personalised, and enjoyable journey, giving you the freedom to uncover Wanaka's vibrant craft beer scene and culinary delights at your own pace. Embark on our specialized Hawea River Track adventure, a gem among Wanaka bike trails. This unique tour spans Wanaka's natural wonders, from the serene Lake Hawea John's Creek Trail to the thrilling Hawea River Track and Outlet track. As the only locally owned company offering the full Lake Hawea to Wanaka bike ride, we've ingeniously combined three tracks to craft the ultimate 1-day craft beer tour in New Zealand. Why settle for a standard bike rental and a big brand beer label when you can enjoy a craft beer exploration along the picturesque Lake Hawea to Wanaka bike trail?

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.

Kayaking on serene Lake Wanaka, with its clear waters and beautiful coastline, is a great introduction to kayaking. Beginners and those with more experience will enjoy a calm half-day tour up to six miles (10 kms) around the lake. Take in the views while experiencing the unspoiled nature that New Zealand is famous for, but without breaking too much of a sweat.

On this small group tour, we'll pick you up anywhere in Wanaka at your preferred time. We've created this trip due to high demand for an easy e-bike ride with a focus on wine and food. After a quick 20-minute orientation on the e-bike, you're ready to roll. We've got your back with first aid kits, maps, and a spare bike. While it's not guided, we're nearby if you need help. Explore food and drink options, enjoy the flat, wide trail – great for beginners. It's a 6-hour trip, with about 2 hours of easy biking. We take care of the driving so you can savor the wine in style. Just a short 35-minute ride from Wanaka takes you to the unique Bannockburn landscape and their superb Pinot Noirs.

Self-guided kayak trip with one-way transport—explore Lake Wānaka's shoreline on your own with gear, tips, and a custom route provided. Know what you’re doing and just need the gear? Explore Lake Wanaka on this self-guided kayaking activity! We’ll get you and the gear out to where you start and your Mission is to paddle it all back! Head off with your buddy, partner or group of friends and enjoy a morning of paddling on Lake Wanaka. We’ll arm you with a kayak, safety equipment and a map, get you out on the lake and your mission is to paddle back to Wanaka Township. Paddle the shoreline, explore islands, jump off jetties, or stop for a picnic - it’s your adventure, your way.

A stunning guided ride along the banks of one of NZ’s most beautiful and powerful rivers. Varied riding, beautiful vistas and plenty of photo opportunities make this a must do trip for those who appreciate exercise and scenery.  Participants need to be able to ride a bike on loose sand and gravel, and up and down (moderate) hills. A medium level of fitness is required. The length of the ride is 12kms.

If you’re looking for a rainy-day activity in Wanaka, look no further than this fun virtual reality experience. Grab a group of friends and prepare for 45 minutes of excitement. You can choose from a wide variety of adventures–including space walks, foreign museums, and zombies. You don’t need any gaming experience. Feel like you’re the star of your own movie while having fun with friends.

Those wishing to experience Wanaka’s natural beauty will love this scenic bike tour. This easy grade, guided bike ride takes visitors along one of Wanaka’s beautiful rivers where they can take in the crystal blue waters and endless mountain vistas. This is a great opportunity to take in the sites of Wanaka while enjoying some gentle exercise.