Top Wanaka On the Water

All visitors to Wānaka see Lake Wānaka, but fewer visit a lake on an island in the lake. Be one of them on this half-day trip to Mou Waho Island. Cruise to this isolated island in the middle of Lake Wānaka and walk to the Arethusa Pool. Admire the mountain views, spot wildlife, and listen to onboard commentary. Spend time exploring the island independently before the return cruise.

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.

After a catamaran cruise across Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island—which sits in the middle of the lake—spot rare native birds that are extinct on mainland New Zealand. Thanks to successful conservation efforts, the island is a rare haven for birdlife. Enjoy a guided hike with an expert guide to a lake at the top of the island, an experience that’s rated one of the best must-do activities in Wanaka.

For travelers short on time in Wanaka, this one-hour cruise and walk to Ruby Island is an ideal way to experience the lake and mountains. Glide across Lake Wanaka to Ruby Island in comfort on a luxury catamaran. There, enjoy an easy walk to lookout points that are great places from which to take pictures. Families and senior travelers will enjoy this tour as it’s suitable for all levels of mobility.

Hidden away behind a peninsula, Stevensons Island is one of the harder islands to get to on Lake Wānaka. On this short trip—ideal for busy schedules—catch a luxury catamaran from Wānaka and sail out to the island. Upon disembarking, hike with your guide to the island’s summit and take in grand views of the peninsula, the lake, and the Southern Alps. Enjoy drinks and snacks on the return journey.

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.

Take a break from busy sightseeing and sail around serene Lake Wanaka on this late-afternoon cruise with a complimentary beer, wine, or soft drink. Enjoy views of the Southern Alps and local landmarks including the lakeside Lone Tree while relaxing with a cheese and cracker board. Purchase extra drinks from the fully licensed bar, if you wish. The short cruise is easy to fit in before dinner plans in Wanaka.

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.

Take a leisurely 45 minute cruise out to Stevensons Arm, home to Mount Burke high country sheep station. Enjoy some of Wanaka's world famous scenery including Mount Gold which rises majestically into the Northern skyline. The commentary will inform you about Lake Wanaka and the surrounding scenery. Relax in comfort as you cruise to Stevensons Island where Dual Image will make a beach landing. Stevensons Island is an inspiration for photographers - shaped by glaciation and eons of winds that funnel down the arm, rock and twisted trunks meld into a patina of nature's finest backdrops. Your scenic cruise is complete with tea, coffee and cookies or enjoy a $6 drink from the bar as you cruise back to Wanaka. This luxury boat cruise is the most relaxing way to experience the scenery of Lake Wanaka and frequently rates in the top ten things to do in Wanaka!

For a full day of adventure and nature, join this pack-rafting experience. Set on the mighty Matukituki River, just a short drive from Wānaka, you’ll start by walking to a waterfall and then gearing up for your paddle. Learn the basics of paddling before climbing aboard your lightweight, stable, two-person rafts and taking in the mountains and glaciers of the Mt. Aspiring National Park. All guests must be able to swim to participate.

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

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.

Join us for a 3-hour fishing adventure on the peaceful waters of Lake Hāwea, surrounded by stunning mountain views. With clear, deep water and plenty of fish, it’s the perfect place to catch trout or salmon. You’ll learn and use great fishing techniques like trolling and using the downriggers, with help from a friendly, expert skipper. Our boat runs on a quiet electric motor, so you can enjoy a smooth, eco-friendly ride while staying close to nature. With small groups (max 6 people), you’ll have plenty of space to fish and relax. We’ll provide all the gear, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks—you just bring your excitement and enjoy the thrill of the catch in one of New Zealand’s hidden gems.

Explore the snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and waterfalls of Mt. Aspiring National Park on this thrilling half-day tour. Start with a scenic flight from Makarora over the Southern Alps, You’ll be dropped at a hiking trail beside the Siberia River. Hike at your own pace, for around 4–5 hours. Once you reach the Wilkin River, hop into a jet boat for an adrenaline-inducing ride back to the starting point.

Spend six unforgettable hours fishing on Lake Wānaka, one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine lakes. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll target trout and salmon using a variety of techniques—trolling, harling, spinning, jigging, and downrigging. This extended trip lets you explore more remote fishing spots, far from the usual locations, for a deeper and more rewarding experience. Our boat is equipped with a quiet, eco-friendly electric trolling motor, allowing you to glide peacefully across the lake and soak in views of Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone. With small group sizes (max 6 passengers), complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, and the option to keep your catch (cleaned and vacuum-packed for you), this is the ideal charter for anglers who want space, time, and scenery—done right.

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.

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!

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.

There’s something unforgettable about spending a full day on Lake Hāwea—a place where the mountains meet crystal-clear waters, and the only sounds are the hum of the reel and the splash of a fish breaking the surface. On this 6-hour fishing adventure, you’ll go beyond the usual hotspots and explore remote corners of the lake that most never see. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll try your hand at a range of techniques—trolling, spinning, jigging, harling, and downrigging—to target trout and salmon where they thrive. The boat’s electric trolling motor keeps the journey quiet and eco-friendly, so you stay immersed in the calm, wild beauty of the landscape. As you drift beneath Isthmus Peak and the Southern Alps, the experience becomes about more than just the catch—it’s about the stillness, the views, and the stories you’ll take home. This isn’t just a fishing trip—it’s a true escape. Fewer people, more time, better spots, and memories that last a lifetime.