Best of Wānaka

You'll find the alpine village of Wānaka tucked snugly in the Southern Alps on the shores of the third-largest lake in the Queenstown-Lakes District. Travelers come here seeking adventure, spectacular scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere. In winter, the town's population more than triples as snow sports enthusiasts flock to the local ski fields of Treble Cone and Cardrona; in summer, hikers head to Mount Aspiring National Park for a good tramp through remote wilderness, high mountains, and beautiful river valleys. Cruise across the lake to the Mou Waho Island nature reserve, a predator-free Department of Conservation reserve. Or climb a via ferrata assisted climbing route up the Twin Falls waterfall, crossing wire bridges, hidden pools, and impressive views.

Previous kimkim travelers have taken a Wānaka Highlights Safari to take it all in, following the lakeside scenery and paying a visit to a working alpine farm at West Wānaka Station. A Siberia Experience can take you on a four-hour wilderness adventure through Mount Aspiring National Park, including a scenic airplane flight, guided bush walk, and jet boat ride. If you'd like something more sedate, try out the Angler's Dining Experience, where you'll hit the lakes in search of Chinook Salmon, which you can then enjoy for lunch.