Queenstown · LAKE WANAKA ADVENTURES
79 tours
An hour over the Crown Range, Wanaka runs at half of Queenstown’s speed and keeps the same mountains. These 15 are the pick of it: island cruises on the lake, a via ferrata up a waterfall, Clutha jet boats, and the trail that links Hawea back to town.
Wildwire Wanaka Level 2 is a 4-hour waterfall via ferrata with full safety gear, expert coaching, and lunch, near Twin Falls.
“The spectacular views, our amazing guide who balanced encouragement with support so beautifully, the adventure, and finding out we could do something we didn’t think we could. We signed up for level 2 (and I thought we would chicken oRead more”
Bike or e-bike the Wanaka and Hawea trails, with helmet, trunk bag, lock, pump, plus a shuttle return to Wanaka.
“Scenic ride along gravel trail. Great, thoughtful host. Some mountain-biking experience helpful but trail is basically just rolling hills along crystal blue river and lake”
Enjoy a 1-hour Lake Wanaka happy hour cruise on a luxury catamaran with wine or beer, cheese and crackers, and mountain views.
“The views were beautiful and it was lovely to enjoy a nice glass of wine and some cheese and crackers on this pleasant cruise of Lake Wanaka”
Jet boat thrills and Clutha River history from Wanaka. Small group, 360 spins, Alps views, Albert Town transfer, 1.5 hours.
“Amazing Ride! We enjoyed the Jet boat ride with Pat, he is so knowledgeable and he absoblutely loves nature! Explaning to us about the Clutha river, activities around the river, history and so much more! And not forgetting the twists and turns Read more”
Water taxi to Mou Waho Island in Lake Wanaka, hike to a hidden lake, meet Wekas, and swim in icy Lake Wanaka waters.
“Such a beautiful setting and an interesting guide who gave us lots of information as we went along. A stunning trip to the island and a very cold swim in Lake Wanaka’s clear clear water”
Jet boat speed on Matukituki River, then a guided walk in Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka i-Site.
“The fact that you are in this wide marvelous mountain surroundings, on the water, moving further into the valley and towards the high mountains, makes you feel in aw and humble. It was also a nice walk into the beech forest to a waterfall.”
A half-day, small-group tour from Queenstown to Arrowtown and Wanaka with Crown Range Road views, Cardrona Hotel drinks, and guided photo stops.
“It’s fabulous! Lots to see and plenty of time to wander and explore. Stops along the way to get some pics and Chris (& Chewy) was (we’re) excellent - explaining the history, pointing out things of interest/significance and lots of humor along the way.”
Wanaka tandem parachute jump from 9,000-15,000 ft with Southern Alps views, freefall up to 200kph, and 3-hour plan.
“excellent jump master, safety at all times, great gear, thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it”
Cardrona Valley quad biking from Wanaka: small group, helmets included, 450cc rides, gold rush history, and rugged alpine dirt tracks.
“First timer here. I brought my girlfriend and we had a blast on this ride! Summer and Holly are great guides, and the views along the ride were amazing! Would come back again”
Half-day water taxi to Mou Waho Island on Lake Wānaka, live commentary, a steep hike to Arethusa Pool views, plus 90 minutes free time.
“The boat ride is an easy 40 minutes. Wear your bathing suit under hiking attire and a towel. There is a place at the summit pond to jump in the island pool and cool off after a 240m (750') ascent. The hike can be fun in sneakers (trainers) but I would recommend hiking shoes. There are plenty of viewing spots.”
Shuttle to Lake Hāwea, then ride back to Wānaka on river trails by e-bike or bike, with a coffee stop at Albert Town.
“Having booked regular mountain bikes as that is what we were used to occasionally we wished we had booked an e bike as at times the terrain was fairly steep. Albert town was a great half way stop with a patisserie offering tasty pies and cakes. The views along the way were stunning with mountain backdrop over crystal clear blue lakes. We did get lost along the way, a bit more signage would have been helpful but all in all a fabulous day out”
2-hour Lake Wānaka cruise to Stevensons Island, with a guided nature walk, warm tea, and top photo angles on a luxury catamaran.
“Toby our captain was great and our guide Cam knowledgeable and a great guide.”
Wanaka fun without screens. Combo entry to Puzzling World: Tumbling Towers photos, Illusion Rooms, 3-D Great Maze, puzzles cafe.
“It was heaps of fun especially the room that is on an angle”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to predator-free Mou Waho, plant a native tree, then hike to panoramic views and tea in stunning alpine scenery.
“Chris, our host, was amazing with his eco knowledge and stories - brilliant trip and memorable experience! John and Maria”
Ride a high-speed **jet boat** on Wanaka’s Clutha River for 1 hour of spins, rapids, and snow-capped mountain views.
“Highly recommend to anyone visiting Wanaka! Our guide was knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. Fun for all ages. Dress warm, wear sunglasses!”
