Wanaka sits at the edge of a glacier-fed lake, ringed by mountains, and it’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and stay longer than planned. Whether your family is chasing outdoor adventure, looking to relax in a stunning lakeside setting, or simply after a few days of fresh air and good food, this corner of New Zealand’s South Island delivers. Read on for everything you need to know about things to do in Wanaka.
(This post includes affiliate links for which we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you should you make a purchase. See our full disclosure and Privacy Policy for more information)
Family-Friendly Lake Wanaka Experiences
The lake is the heart of Wanaka. It’s calm, accessible, and beautiful in a way that doesn’t require any effort to appreciate. For families, that combination matters. You can fill a full day here without a plan, and it still works.
#ThatWanakaTree and the Waterfront
The willow tree growing out of Lake Wanaka has become one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots, and it’s easy to see why. It sits just a short walk from the town center, right along the waterfront path, so it’s a natural first stop when you arrive. Kids who aren’t particularly interested in photography will still enjoy the walk along the lake edge, where there’s plenty of open space to run, skip stones, and take in the view across the water to the mountains.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka’s sheltered bays make it well-suited to paddling with kids. The water is generally calm, especially in the mornings, and the shoreline is easy to navigate at a relaxed pace. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for hire from operators based near the waterfront, and most offer options for both solo paddlers and families who want to share a vessel. No prior experience is needed for a gentle paddle along the shore.
Alternatively, check out this 3-hour kayaking tour on the lake with an experienced local guide.
Swimming in the Lake
Swimming in Lake Wanaka is generally a summer activity, with water temperatures most comfortable between December and February. The lake is clear and the shoreline accessible in several spots near town, making it a straightforward option for families on a warm day.
Lake Wanaka Boat Cruises
Boat cruises on Lake Wanaka offer your family a different perspective on the landscape and are a good option when you want something low-effort but memorable. You can choose from various options that cover notable landmarks, picturesque islands, and gorgeous bays. A few options include Mou Waho Island, Ruby Island, and Stevensons Island.
Mou Waho Island
Mou Waho Island sits within Lake Wanaka and is accessible by boat cruise. It’s home to a small lake within the island itself, which is a unique feature that kids usually love. The island is a predator-free reserve, so native birds are present in numbers you won’t see everywhere else in New Zealand.
This 3-hour water taxi and Mou Waho Island tour includes tour guide commentary on the boat and 1.5 hours of free time to explore the island (plus activity sheets for the kids!)
Ruby Island
Ruby Island is a smaller, closer option that you could even kayak to if you preferred! It’s a short distance from the Wanaka waterfront and offers a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, look back at the town from the water, and let younger kids explore a contained natural space without much effort.
This 1-hour boat trip to Ruby Island includes a short guided walk and is suitable for all ages.
Top Attractions in Wanaka for Families
Beyond the lake, Wanaka has a handful of well-established attractions that work well for mixed-age groups. These are the places worth building time around, not just filling gaps.
Puzzling World
Puzzling World is one of those rare attractions that works for every age in your family at the same time. The complex includes a series of illusion rooms where perspective plays tricks on your eyes in ways that are hard to explain until you’re standing inside them. It also has a large outdoor maze that takes most families a solid chunk of time to complete. Overall, it’s a fun place with fantastic photo opportunities! Puzzling World is located about 2km from the Wanaka town center, making it an easy stop on the way in or out of town.
Get guaranteed admission with this combo ticket to the illusion rooms and maze.
Cinema Paradiso
Cinema Paradiso is a Wanaka institution, and it’s worth going even if you’re not usually a cinema family. The seating includes old couches and armchairs alongside standard seats, and the atmosphere is relaxed in a way that suits families who don’t want to feel like they’re being shushed. It screens a mix of current releases and classics, and the intermission with freshly baked cookies has become part of the experience. It’s a reliable option for an evening out or a rainy afternoon when the kids need something contained and comfortable.
Wanaka Lavender Farm
The Wanaka Lavender Farm is open year-round, with the lavender at its peak during the summer months, roughly December through February. It’s a visually striking place that photographs well and gives kids a chance to walk through something that smells and looks completely different from other attractions in the region. They’ll also love meeting the farm animals and playing the giant games.
Wanaka Activities for Active Kids
If your family includes kids who need to move, Wanaka has options that go well beyond the lake. Here are some of the best kids’ activities in Wanaka for burning energy in a structured way.
SITE Trampoline Wanaka
SITE Trampoline Wanaka is an indoor trampoline park that gives kids a place to jump, flip, and burn off energy in a controlled environment. It’s a strong option for families with children who need an outlet on a rest day, and it works equally well as a rainy day backup.
Disc Golf
Disc golf is one of those activities that works well for families because the learning curve is short and the format is forgiving. Players throw a frisbee toward a target basket across a course set through natural terrain, and the pace is relaxed enough that kids of most ages can participate without frustration. Wanaka has five disc golf courses and a longer one nearby at Lake Hawea.
Archery
Archery is a good option for kids who want something that requires focus rather than just physical effort. It suits a range of ages and works well as an activity slotted between other things. Check out Crossfire for more information. They offer archery for all ages, with parent supervision required for ages 8 and younger. They also have a mini putt course and other activities for teens and adults.
Basecamp Wanaka Climbing Centre
Basecamp Wanaka Climbing Centre offers indoor climbing, with options for beginners and more experienced climbers. The clip ‘n’ climb area is perfect for families. Themed walls put fun at the center of the climb, and the automatic belay system means you don’t need technical skills to enjoy yourself. It’s a good option for kids and teens who want a physical challenge, and the indoor setting means weather doesn’t affect your plans.
Wanaka Food, Arts, and Culture for Families
Wanaka’s food and culture scene is relaxed and unpretentious, which suits families well. Here are a few of the must-dos for all ages.
Food Trucks and Where to Eat for Families in Wanaka
The food truck scene in Wanaka is a genuine part of daily life rather than a weekend novelty. Trucks offer a range of options from wood-fired pizza to Asian-inspired street food, burgers, and fresh wraps. The format suits families well. Kids can choose what they want, portions are generous, and eating outside is a perfectly reasonable plan. Options suit a range of budgets, and the casual setup means no one needs to worry about noise levels or keeping small children seated.
National Transport and Toy Museum
The National Transport and Toy Museum has a large and varied collection. It houses vintage vehicles, aircraft, and an extensive collection of toys and memorabilia spanning several decades. For kids, the toy collection is a highlight, particularly for those who enjoy spotting things they recognize from home or from grandparents’ houses. For adults, the transport exhibits offer depth. It’s a fun place to visit as a family because it holds attention across a wide age range.
Wanaka Artisan Market
The Wanaka Artisan Market brings together local makers selling food, crafts, and handmade goods. It’s a low-key, walkable experience that gives kids a chance to browse and try local produce without the pressure of a formal outing.
Best Wanaka Hikes and Walks for Families
The walking tracks around Wanaka are among the most accessible in the South Island, and they’re a core part of what makes Wanaka such a rewarding place to visit with kids. The following tracks are well-maintained and clearly marked.
Mount Iron Track
Mount Iron is the hill that sits directly behind the town of Wanaka. The summit track is a 4.5km loop with 238 meters of elevation gain that’s popular with locals and visitors alike. The ascent is steady, and the summit offers a 360-degree view of the lake, the town, and surrounding mountain ranges. It’s a practical option, given its proximity to the town center. Most kids with reasonable fitness can complete it without difficulty, and the clear path means there’s no navigation required.
Diamond Lake Loop and Lookout Tracks
There are four family-friendly tracks about 19km from Wanaka town center, off the road toward Mount Aspiring National Park. They all leave from the same car park. The Diamond Lake Loop Track is the shortest one. It’s only 1.5km and will probably take about 30-45 minutes to complete.
Families looking for something a little more can take a branch onto one of the other tracks. The 3.5km out-and-back Lake Wānaka Lookout Track is a nice option for stunning views over Glendhu Bay. It takes about 60-90 minutes from the car park. Other slightly longer tracks (which are still doable for families) are the Lower Circuit and Rocky Mountain tracks, at 4km and 7km, respectively.
More Trails and Natural Highlights Near Wanaka
Wanaka is a good base for exploring beyond the immediate area. Lake Hawea is close enough for a half-day visit, and Mount Aspiring National Park offers some of the most striking walking in the South Island.
Lake Hawea
The closest part of Lake Hawea sits about 15km from Wanaka. It’s a quieter, less-visited alternative to its more famous neighbor. The water is a deep blue-green, the shoreline is accessible, and the surrounding hills give it a more remote feel than Wanaka despite the short distance. It’s worth the short drive for the scenery alone, and the lakeside area is a good spot for a picnic or a walk along the water’s edge.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park begins roughly 50km from Wanaka and covers a vast area of alpine terrain, river valleys, and glacier-fed waterways. For families, two of the park’s most popular and accessible walks are the Blue Pools and Rob Roy Glacier tracks.
Blue Pools
The Blue Pools are located in the Makarora area, about 70km from Wanaka. The walk from the car park to the pools is around 1.6km each way, making it accessible for most ages. The pools themselves are fed by glacier melt and can be a vivid turquoise color on a sunny day. If it has rained recently, the water color may not be as impressive. There are two swing bridges, which add a small element of adventure for kids. Swimming is possible, but the water is very cold year-round.
Rob Roy Glacier Track
The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a 10km return walk through beech forest and open valley terrain, finishing at a viewpoint of the Rob Roy Glacier and its surrounding waterfalls. The track involves a steady climb, so it suits families with older children who are comfortable on longer hiking trails (approximately 3-4 hours). The glacier views are striking, and the waterfalls are impressive even from a distance. Track conditions in alpine environments can change with weather and season, so check current conditions before heading out.
Adventure Activities for Families in Wanaka
Wanaka has a well-earned reputation as an adventure hub, and for families with older kids or teens, there’s a lot on offer. Some activities are adult-only or have firm age restrictions. Others are accessible to a wider range of ages.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Wanaka is within easy reach of ski fields that operate during the winter season, roughly June through September. The ski areas near Wanaka cater to a range of abilities, from beginners taking their first lessons to more experienced skiers looking for varied terrain.
I got my first and only (so far!) season pass at Cardrona when I was at University, and loved it! Cardrona is about 35km south of Wanaka. Ski and snowboard hire, lessons, and lift passes are all available directly from the ski fields. Check with local providers for current pricing and conditions before heading up.
Skydiving
Skydiving over Wanaka is a well-established activity with a backdrop that’s hard to match. Minimum age and weight requirements apply, and tandem jumps are the standard format for first-timers.
Book your tandem skydive here (minimum age 6 and 30kg).
Scenic Flights
Scenic flights over the Wanaka region and into the Southern Alps give a perspective on the landscape that’s impossible to get from the ground. Flights typically cover the glaciers, mountain ranges, and lake systems of the area.
This 35-minute scenic helicopter flight with a 10-minute glacier/snow landing is a top pick.
Jet Boating
Jet boating on the rivers near Wanaka is a high-energy activity that suits families with kids who are ready to handle the speed and noise. Boats travel at pace through narrow river gorges, with sharp turns that are part of the appeal. Minimum age requirements apply and vary by operator, so check ahead. It’s one of the more accessible adventure activities for mixed-age families.
This 1-hour jet boat ride on the Clutha River is open to ages 4 and older.
Mountain Biking
The Wanaka area has a well-developed network of mountain bike trails covering a range of difficulty levels. Easier trails suit families with younger or less experienced riders, while more technical terrain is available for older kids and adults who want a challenge. Bike hire is available in town, and trail maps are easy to find. It’s a flexible activity that your family can scale to whatever level suits you.
Activities for Older Kids and Teens in Wanaka
Standard family-friendly content often skips the 12-to-17 age group, but Wanaka has two experiences that are specifically worth flagging for older kids and teens.
Wildwire Via Ferrata
Wildwire Via Ferrata is a guided climbing experience on the cliffs above Lake Wanaka, using fixed cables and iron rungs to move across exposed rock faces. It’s not technical climbing in the traditional sense, but it requires physical effort, a head for heights, and a willingness to commit to the route. A minimum age of 10 applies to their level 1 route, and participants need a reasonable level of fitness. For teens who find standard tourist activities underwhelming, check this one out!
Realm VR
Realm VR is a virtual reality experience based in Wanaka that puts participants inside immersive, interactive environments. It’s a good option for teens who are comfortable with technology and want something different from outdoor activities. The format suits small groups, which makes it a natural fit for families. Options include classic VR, driving simulators, and escape rooms.
Day Trips to Cardrona and Beyond
The Cardrona area sits between Wanaka and Queenstown and makes for a satisfying half-day or full-day excursion. It’s a different kind of landscape from the lake, and the combination of historic character and quirky roadside stops gives it a personality of its own.
Cardrona Village and the Cardrona Hotel
The Cardrona Hotel is one of New Zealand’s most photographed historic buildings, a stone and timber pub that dates back to the 1860s gold rush era. It sits in the small settlement of Cardrona, about 25km from Wanaka, and the building itself is worth stopping for even if you’re just passing through. The surrounding village is small and quiet, with a character that reflects its history rather than its tourist traffic.
Bradrona, the Bra Fence at Cardrona
Bradrona, The Bra Fence, is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a roadside fence along the Cardrona Valley Road that has accumulated thousands of bras over the years, contributed by visitors from around the world. It has been a fixture of the road for decades. Kids find it funny, adults find it baffling, and it makes for a memorable photo stop on the way between Wanaka and Queenstown.
Horse Riding in Cardrona
The Cardrona Valley offers horse riding through open farmland and high-country terrain, with views across the valley that are hard to beat. Rides are available for a range of experience levels, and the landscape gives the activity a sense of scale that flat paddock riding doesn’t. Check with local operators for age and weight requirements, as these vary.
Book your gold discovery trail Cardrona horse trek here (suitable for ages 5+).
Crown Range Drive
The Crown Range Road connects Wanaka and Queenstown via the highest sealed road in New Zealand, crossing the Crown Range at more than 1,000 meters. The road is about 70km long between the two towns and passes through open tussock country with wide views in both directions. It’s a scenic route worth taking at least one way if your family is traveling between Wanaka and Queenstown, and the viewpoint near the summit is a natural stopping point.
Planning Your Trip to Wanaka
Getting the logistics right makes everything else easier. Here’s what your family needs to know before you arrive.
How to Get to Wanaka
Wanaka is accessible from Queenstown Airport. The two towns are connected by road via either the Crown Range (approximately 63km) or through Cromwell (about 106km). Rental cars are the most practical option for families, given that Wanaka’s attractions are spread across the region and public transport connections are limited. The roads between Queenstown and Wanaka are well-maintained and pass through some striking scenery, so the drive itself is part of the experience.
Best Time of Year to Visit Wanaka
Each season in Wanaka offers something different, and the right time to visit depends on what your family wants to do.
- Summer (December to February): Warm temperatures, long days, swimming in the lake, and peak season for hiking and outdoor activities. This is the busiest period, so accommodation books up early.
- Autumn (March to May): Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the surrounding hills turn gold and red. A good season for walking and photography.
- Winter (June to August): Snow on the mountains and ski season in full swing. Ideal for families who ski or snowboard.
- Spring (September to November): The landscape comes back to life, temperatures are mild, and crowds are lighter than summer. A good shoulder-season option.
Wanaka Itinerary for Families
A three-to-four day stay gives your family enough time to cover the main experiences without rushing.
- Day one: Arrive, walk the waterfront, visit #ThatWanakaTree, and spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake, food trucks for dinner.
- Day two: Morning at Puzzling World, afternoon at the National Transport and Toy Museum, or Cinema Paradiso in the evening.
- Day three: Drive to Mount Aspiring National Park for the Rob Roy Glacier Track or Blue Pools, depending on your family’s fitness level.
- Day four: Mount Iron Track in the morning and a day trip to Cardrona in the afternoon.
This is a framework, not a prescription. Flexibility is always helpful, so you can adjust your activity choices based on what everyone feels like doing that day.
Where to Stay in Wanaka for Families
Wanaka has a good range of accommodation options suited to families, from holiday parks with powered sites and cabin options to self-contained apartments and family-friendly lodges. Self-contained accommodation is a practical choice for families who want kitchen facilities and more space than a standard hotel room provides. Staying close to the town center puts the waterfront, food trucks, and most attractions within easy walking distance. Club Wyndham Wanaka has 1- and 2-bedroom apartments and is highly rated by families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wanaka
Wanaka is worth visiting because it combines natural beauty with a range of activities that work for different ages and interests, without the crowds or commercial intensity of Queenstown. It’s a place where the lake, the mountains, and the town make it easy to relax and enjoy being there.
Puzzling World, Cinema Paradiso, SITE Trampoline Wanaka, Basecamp Wanaka Climbing Centre, and Realm VR all work well in wet weather. Between them, they cover a wide range of ages and interests, so a rainy day in Wanaka doesn’t have to mean a wasted one.
The waterfront walk, #ThatWanakaTree, the Mount Iron Track, and the Diamond Lake Loop Track are all free and among the most rewarding things to do in Wanaka with kids. Swimming in the lake during summer costs nothing, and browsing the Wanaka Artisan Market is a low-cost outing that suits most ages.
Final Thoughts About Things to do in Wanaka
Wanaka rewards families who come with a loose plan and a willingness to follow what interests them. Start with the lake, and build in at least one proper hike. Plus, leave room for the unexpected stops that end up being the ones your kids talk about afterward. Whether you’re here for a long weekend, a full week, or longer, the best things to do in Wanaka are varied enough to keep every member of your family engaged. We hope you enjoy your trip!
DISCLAIMER: This article/page contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, then we may receive a small commission – at no extra cost to you. See our full disclosure and Privacy Policy for more information. Thank you for supporting our site and helping make it the inspiring location-independent, long-term family travel and worldschooling blog it aims to be!