All Wanaka Tours & Excursions in 2026

Experience the ultimate 1 way adventure from Wanaka to Franz Josef. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes, over the stunning Haast Pass, and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

Wanaka fishing charters offer a distinctive angling experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The pristine waters of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea are home to diverse fish species, including brown and rainbow trout, as well as salmon, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Guided by seasoned experts, these charters provide valuable insights into the best fishing spots and techniques, enhancing the overall experience. This combination of scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and professional guidance makes Wanaka fishing charters a unique and memorable adventure.

Small group island tour on Lake Wanaka, max 6 guests, with owner Austin as your skipper and guide. 9am: Mou Waho Island. Cruise past The Wanaka Tree, Glendhu Bay and Mou Tapu Island to Mou Waho, a DOC reserve, for about 2 hours ashore. Walk 2.6 km return (170 m climb) through native bush to Arethusa Pool, a lake on an island on a lake. Look for buff weka. 2pm: Stevensons and Ruby Islands. Round Eely Point, past the Clutha River outlet, to Stevensons Island, then Ruby Island, about an hour ashore on each. Afternoon north-westerlies can make the Mou Waho run rough, so this trip visits the sheltered islands. Swim in Arethusa Pool or off island beaches. Tea, coffee and baked goods on the heated McLay 651 hardtop. Views to Roys Peak, Treble Cone and, from Mou Waho, Mount Aspiring National Park. Austin is a Maritime NZ SRL skipper with 8 seasons on the lake. Adventure Mark certified. DOC concession holder. Part of every booking supports WAI Wānaka and Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust.

Experience the best of Wanaka’s beautiful nature in a single day trip via four-wheel drive, lake cruise, and island walk. Gain exclusive access to private roads on the 4WD safari, and spot rare bird life on Mou Wahou Island, in the middle of Lake Wanaka, with the help of your expert guide. This is two action-packed tours in one, for maximum fun.

A private six-hour charter gives your group the boat and skipper exclusively. With more time and no other guests to consider, we can shape the experience around your interests, whether that means learning to fish as a family, exploring more of the lake or spending longer on techniques that interest experienced anglers. Your skipper can adapt the pace, fishing methods and level of guidance throughout the day, giving you a genuinely personal experience rather than a fixed itinerary. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can guide the boat along the fishing route, leaving your skipper free to spend more time helping your group, talking fishing and sharing local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks make this a relaxed and immersive private experience on Lake Hāwea.

Take control of your own movie with a virtual adventure of epic proportions. Choose from dozens of options including space walks, 3D art, foreign museums, and zombies during your hour-long session. This is the perfect opportunity to see the future of entertainment while having fun. No experience is needed, and you don’t need to be a gamer to enjoy it.

You choose the trail you wish to Bike, and we pick you, and your group up for a Private Tour which we aim to be a highlight of your holiday. We ride every day during the year (except Christmas Day and Anzac Day). Whether it is Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter/Ski Season your family will enjoy a brilliant experience. Our Guest Experience Manager will host your day, share a little history with you on the way, brief you on the trail/bikes, make sure that you are comfortable before you ride off with your seats at the right height. Your actual ride is 'Self-Guided'. You will have a direct company mobile number to your Guest Experience Manager for any support required and on many trails you will see them along the way. If any of the group get tired, we can arrange additional pickups and take them to meet you at the next location if possible. Our company is a Qualmark Gold accredited tourism operator, and we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional experiences

Embark on the Aspiring Snow Special, a one-hour helicopter adventure into New Zealand’s most remote and spectacular alpine landscapes. This unforgettable experience features a stunning glacier or snow landing in the heart of the Southern Alps, followed by a scenic local landing near the shores of Lake Wānaka. Soar above rugged mountain peaks, thundering waterfalls, sheer rock faces, and pristine alpine terrain, with lush native forests providing a striking contrast to the dramatic high-country scenery. Touch down on an alpine glacier or snowfield and step into a world of untouched wilderness before concluding your journey with a breathtaking second landing overlooking Lake Wānaka. Available year-round, the Aspiring Snow Special is a truly memorable experience and a standout highlight of any Wānaka holiday - offering remarkable views, rare access to remote landscapes, and moments you’ll never forget.

The Milford Flyover is an ideal option for those looking to experience some of New Zealand's most iconic and diverse landscapes in a short amount of time. This scenic flight takes you over the Southern Lakes region, offering a stunning aerial view of Lake Wanaka, Mt Aspiring National Park, and Fiordland National Park, including the world-famous Milford Sound. You'll soar over the majestic Clutha River and Lake Wanaka, before crossing into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park and then continuing to the jaw-dropping beauty of Fiordland. Fly past towering peaks, lush valleys, and magnificent fjords, including the dramatic Mitre Peak in Milford Sound. The flight includes an alpine landing overlooking Glenorchy and Lake Wakatipu, offering a chance to take in the grandeur of this remote, pristine area. As you head back, you’ll fly over the stunning Shotover River, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding Queenstown Lakes area, offering sweeping views before returning to Wanaka.

Catch a Fish is a small-group, owner-operated fishing experience with a maximum of just six guests, giving everyone plenty of personal attention and the chance to be genuinely involved. Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’ve fished for years, the experience is adapted to you. Beginners are guided through everything, while experienced anglers can get more involved with techniques, gear and the Lake Hāwea fishery. Once fishing, we use a fully electric trolling motor, meaning no engine noise while we fish. Its clever GPS route-following system can automatically guide the boat along our fishing route, giving your skipper more time to interact with guests, help with the fishing, answer questions and share his knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, experienced local guide, locally sourced treats and cold drinks are all included, creating a relaxed and personal way to experience beautiful Lake Hāwea.

Your boat, your plan! Lake Wānaka's islands, hidden bays and trout-filled waters are yours to explore on a fully private charter built entirely around your group. Drop a line for trout and salmon, step ashore on one of the lake's islands, or cruise to a secluded beach for a picnic surrounded by mountains. Can't decide? Do a bit of everything. Whether it's a family day out, a corporate escape or a celebration worth remembering, choose 3 hours or a full day (6 hours) for up to 6 guests, and leave the rest to your local skipper. - The whole boat to yourselves, for up to 6 guests - Fish, explore the islands, find a quiet beach, or do it all - Sweeping alpine views and local wildlife along the way - A local skipper who knows the lake inside out - Premium catering from a local Wānaka café

Your boat and skipper are reserved exclusively for your group of up to six guests, giving you a more personal experience and the freedom to shape the trip around what you want from your time on Lake Wānaka. Whether you’re a couple, family, group of friends or keen anglers, your skipper can adapt the pace, level of guidance and fishing techniques to suit your experience and interests. Beginners can have plenty of hands-on help, while experienced anglers can spend more time talking techniques and exploring different approaches where conditions allow. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can automatically guide the boat along the fishing route, giving your skipper more time to focus on your group, help with the fishing and share his local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks complete a relaxed, private experience on Lake Wānaka.

Your boat and skipper are reserved exclusively for your group of up to six guests, giving you a more personal experience and the freedom to shape the trip around what you want from your time on Lake Hāwea. Whether you’re a couple, family, group of friends or keen anglers, your skipper can adapt the pace, level of guidance and fishing techniques to suit your experience and interests. Beginners can have plenty of hands-on help, while experienced anglers can spend more time talking techniques and exploring different approaches where conditions allow. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can automatically guide the boat along the fishing route, giving your skipper more time to focus on your group, help with the fishing and share his local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks complete a relaxed, private experience on Lake Hāwea.

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!

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.

A private six-hour charter gives your group the boat and skipper exclusively. With more time and no other guests to consider, we can shape the experience around your interests, whether that means learning to fish as a family, exploring more of the lake or spending longer on techniques that interest experienced anglers. Your skipper can adapt the pace, fishing methods and level of guidance throughout the day, giving you a genuinely personal experience rather than a fixed itinerary. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can guide the boat along the fishing route, leaving your skipper free to spend more time helping your group, talking fishing and sharing local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks make this a relaxed and immersive private experience on Lake Wānaka.

Our six-hour shared charter gives you the time to experience more of Lake Wānaka, not simply spend longer fishing. With a maximum of six guests, we can explore different areas, adapt as conditions change and, where suitable, try a wider range of fishing techniques. First-time anglers have plenty of time to learn and gain confidence, while experienced anglers can get more involved with techniques, gear and the local fishery. Your skipper is there throughout to provide hands-on guidance and share his knowledge of the lake and surrounding area. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can guide the boat along our fishing route, leaving your skipper free to spend more time helping guests, talking fishing and sharing local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks make this a relaxed and immersive way to spend six hours on Lake Wānaka.

Our six-hour shared charter gives you the time to experience more of Lake Hāwea, not simply spend longer fishing. With a maximum of six guests, we can explore different areas, adapt as conditions change and, where suitable, try a wider range of fishing techniques. First-time anglers have plenty of time to learn and gain confidence, while experienced anglers can get more involved with techniques, gear and the local fishery. Your skipper is there throughout to provide hands-on guidance and share his knowledge of the lake and surrounding area. Once fishing, our fully electric trolling motor means no engine noise. Its GPS route-following system can guide the boat along our fishing route, leaving your skipper free to spend more time helping guests, talking fishing and sharing local knowledge. Quality fishing gear, a comfortable purpose-built boat, locally sourced treats and cold drinks make this a relaxed and immersive way to spend six hours on Lake Hāwea.

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.

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.

Discover the beauty of Lake Wanaka with a full-day tour that takes you to the stunning islands of Mou Waho, Ruby Island, and Stevenson Island. Spend seven hours on the water exploring remote bays, enjoying guided island walks, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. A delicious packed lunch is included, ensuring a relaxing day amid breathtaking scenery. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility away from the busy shoreline. - Full-day tour exploring three islands on Lake Wanaka - Includes island walks, swimming opportunities, and onboard lunch - Maximum group size of 6 for a personal experience - Suitable for all ages and no prior experience needed

Leave the crowds behind and discover a hidden side of Lake Wānaka on this scenic, 5km, self-guided walk with Wanaka Water Taxi. Enjoy a 20-minute cruise across the lake to the remote shores of Stevenson’s Arm - a privately accessed area only reachable by boat and not open to the public. From the shoreline, follow a gentle lakeside farm track beneath Mount Burke before turning onto a narrow uphill bush trail through mānuka. The walk leads to two scenic lookouts with sweeping views across Lake Wānaka, Mou Waho Island, and the surrounding alpine ranges. The track then descends to a secluded bay where you’ll have time to relax, picnic, or swim before your return water taxi ride back to Wānaka. This self-guided experience lets you explore at your own pace along historic trails once used by shepherds on Mount Burke Station.

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.

Embark on a private guided day walk to the stunning Rob Roy Glacier, located in New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park. Experience a unique blend of lush rainforest and breathtaking alpine vistas as you trek through diverse landscapes to witness an active hanging glacier cascading from dramatic cliffs. This intermediate hike is perfect for families with older children and adventure seekers alike, offering personalized insights from your expert guide about the region's ecology and history. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the awe-inspiring scenery, ensuring a day filled with unforgettable moments. Private tour with an expert guide for an intimate experience Scenic 40km drive through the Matukituki Valley to the trailhead Picnic lunch, tea, coffee, and snacks included Suitable for intermediate hikers, with an approximate duration from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm