Things to See and Do in Wanaka, New Zealand

Wanaka is situated in the lower part of the South Island of New Zealand and has a permanent population of approximately 4500. It is set at the foot of the Southern Alps and enjoys fantastic scenery year round. Wanaka offers a range of activities from relaxing cruises to action sports.

Water Sports in Wanaka

Wanaka offers a range of water activities to suit all ages and personalities. The more adventurous may enjoy a jet boat ride up the braided rives that lead into Lake Wanaka. These trips typically last an hour and incorporate skimming across the water at top speed while weaving between sand bars and rapids.

A number of companies offer cruises around Lake Wanaka. Visitors have the choice of hiring a house boat, chartering a luxury launch or enjoying a standard tourist cruise with commentary and snacks available on board.

Puzzling World in Wanaka

Puzzling World is a quirky interactive attraction that includes an outdoor maze, illusion rooms, holograms, and exhibits that confuse and astound. The tilted house is a number of rooms that have been tilted, so creating unusual effects like water running upward and people looking like they are standing at strange angles.

A hall houses a number of 3D faces that seem to follow you as you walk around the room and another displays a range of optical illusions. The outdoor maze includes a number of bridges and is divided into sections. It can take hours for people to work out how to go from start to end.

Sports and Activities in Wanaka

In winter, skiing and snowboarding attract thousands of visitors to Wanaka. The town is situated within an hour's drive of four world-class ski fields and local stores offer hire of all the equipment that is needed. The ski fields cater for all levels of expertise and instructors are available to teach skills to beginners.

Hiking is another popular activity and the Wanaka area offers a number of trails. Sights include glaciers, golden tussocks, magnificent valleys and incredible 360 degree views. Guided day walks are available or tourists can enjoy a gentle hour or two, walking around on their own. Many tracks are also suitable for mountain biking.

Relaxing in Wanaka

Wanaka offers fine dining at the lakeside with a range of bars, restaurants and cafes as well as several takeaways. There are a number of vineyards in the area and these are well worth a visit. Accommodation is available for all tastes and pockets and the choice ranges from backpackers to 5 star hotels. There is also plenty of entertainment for children including playgrounds and canoe hire.

Wanaka is a small town with a big heart and excels at hosting tourists. Visitors are treated like royalty and no matter what their taste, there is something available to keep them entertained. Set in magnificent surroundings, Wanaka is beautiful in all four season of the year and is well worth a visit.

Reference:

http://www.lakewanaka.co.nz/new-zealand/