All Wanaka Tours & Excursions in 2026

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.

Ride on possibly the best 1-day bike ride in New Zealand with our exclusive Hawea River Track adventure. We've crafted a unique experience by combining three different tracks, inventing a great ride that others now emulate. This leisurely exploration of Wanaka's scenic wonders offers stunning views along the gentle riverside track, showcasing the Upper Clutha's natural beauty. Join us for a pickup at 9 am, 11 am, or 2 pm from your accommodation. A 15-minute drive takes you to the wild and beautiful Lake Hawea, where you'll cruise along the Hawea River Track on an easy 30 km ride back to Wanaka town. A year-round delight, this classic Wanaka ride includes a strategic stop at Wanaka's best bakery for coffee and pastries. Once back in Wanaka town, just let us know, and we'll ensure you get a safe ride home. Experience the pinnacle of New Zealand's biking adventures, combining innovation and breathtaking landscapes for a day to remember

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.

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

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.

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.

The Mt Aspiring Explorer flight is a truly immersive experience, offering an extended journey through one of New Zealand's most iconic and remote landscapes. Your adventure begins with an aerial circumnavigation of Mount Aspiring, also known as Tititea or the 'Glistening Peak,' standing proudly at 3,033 metres. You’ll soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park, a World Heritage site, and venture toward the West Coast, crossing the main divide. Along the way, you'll experience awe-inspiring views of massive glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and dense native bush, all framed by the rugged Southern Alps. This extended flight includes two alpine landings, giving you the chance to step onto a glacier and the stunning Albert Burn Saddle, allowing you to truly connect with the pristine wilderness of this remote region.

The pōwhiri, or welcome, is an important ritual in New Zealand’s Māori culture, inviting visitors as they arrive on their whenua (land). Experience a full pōwhiri, including the challenge and mihi whakatau (welcome speech), first-hand in Wānaka. Connect with Māori traditions in a way that you simply can’t through guidebooks and museums; learn more about the local iwi (tribe) and their responsibilities as custodians of the land.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.