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Top reasons to visit Wānaka

• Stunning Scenery: Wānaka boasts breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Wānaka tree and picturesque mountain views that captivate every visitor.
• Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for thrill-seekers, you can ski the slopes, hike scenic trails, or enjoy water sports on Lake Wānaka.
• Charming Town Atmosphere: Explore local shops and eateries in the friendly town, offering a relaxed vibe and unique experiences.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Visit the transport museum and flower gardens, providing fun for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of stays, from cosy B&Bs to luxurious lodges, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Wānaka

Wānaka offers a diverse array of accommodation options, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a cosy bed & breakfast or a rustic lodge, you'll find the ideal base for your adventure. With a focus on family-friendly stays and ski vacation experiences, Wānaka hotels provide comfort and accessibility to the stunning landscapes. Discover the best Wānaka accommodation to make your holiday memorable, all while enjoying the town's breathtaking scenery.

• Edgewater: Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Wānaka, Edgewater is a 4.5-star hotel that caters to both adventure seekers and business travellers. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in a range of thrilling activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and water skiing. The hotel is equipped with top-tier business amenities, including a conference centre and 24-hour business centre, making it an ideal choice for those blending work and leisure. The serene environment combined with adventure sports opportunities makes Edgewater a perfect spot for both relaxation and excitement.
• Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka: This eco-certified 4-star resort is a haven for eco-conscious travellers and adventure lovers alike. Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability, providing a range of amenities for business and leisure. Guests can partake in activities like snowboarding, hiking, and sailing, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps. The resort's commitment to the environment, coupled with its comprehensive business facilities, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking an eco-friendly getaway while being close to nature’s wonders.
• Fairway Motel and Apartments: A family-friendly 3.5-star motel, Fairway Motel and Apartments is perfect for those looking to enjoy a golf-themed holiday. Situated near the scenic golf courses of Wānaka, families can partake in golf activities while children are entertained with amenities like a shared playground and pool. The motel's welcoming atmosphere and spacious accommodations make it an ideal retreat for families wanting to bond over outdoor activities while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Wānaka.

Where to stay near Wānaka

Wānaka offers a stunning mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it a perfect romantic getaway or family-friendly destination. Just metres from Lake Wānaka, you can explore charming local shops and enjoy breathtaking mountain attractions. The friendly atmosphere and luxurious accommodations cater to all travellers, ensuring a relaxing experience. With ideal accessibility options, Wānaka welcomes everyone to enjoy its picturesque landscapes and recreational activities, creating unforgettable memories in this enchanting part of New Zealand.

• Albert Town: Located a mere 3.2km from Wānaka, Albert Town is a charming suburb that offers a tranquil escape with a focus on outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Though traveller numbers remain fairly consistent year-round, the peak season from December to February draws many seeking romantic getaways or adventure in nature. Enjoy nearby ski fields, hit the golf course, or explore the picturesque lakes and mountains that define the landscape. Albert Town is a perfect base for those wanting an authentic taste of New Zealand's natural beauty.
• Cardrona: A vibrant suburb located 24.1km from Wānaka, Cardrona is a winter sports paradise renowned for its seasonal visitor influx, particularly from June to August. This area is ideal for thrill-seekers, offering exciting skiing and adventure sports amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. Cardrona's ski fields are a major draw, with additional activities such as golf available in the warmer months. The surrounding lakes and mountains create a picturesque backdrop, making it a favourite destination for those craving an active holiday.
• Lake Hawea: Situated 16.1km from Wānaka, Lake Hawea is a delightful suburb that captures the essence of outdoor relaxation and captivating scenery. With consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, this area sees a spike from December to February, attracting couples and families looking for scenic walks and recreational activities. The hiking trails are particularly popular, alongside shopping areas and golf courses. The stunning lake and nearby national state park offer ample opportunities for exploration, making Lake Hawea a must-visit on your journey.

Things to do in and around Wānaka

Wānaka is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, offering stunning scenery and a range of activities. You can hit the ski fields for some exhilarating skiing, explore local shopping areas, or enjoy a scenic boat ride. For those seeking adventure, Wānaka's holiday parks and outdoor adventures provide the ideal backdrop for a memorable vacation. Whether on the slopes or by the lake, an adventure awaits in this beautiful part of New Zealand.

Shopping

Wānaka offers a charming shopping experience with local boutiques and artisan shops. If you're up for a drive, the Cromwell Shopping Centre, 38.6km away, and Remarkables Park Town Centre, 48.3km away, provide a wider selection of business and family-friendly shopping vibes.

Recreation

At Millbrook Resort Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst breathtaking landscapes, just 38.6km from Wānaka. Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Queenstown Event Centre, 48.3km away, offering diverse sports activities. Closer to home, Crossfire Wanaka provides thrilling outdoor golfing experiences in a scenic setting.

Adventure

Puzzling World in Wānaka offers a whimsical maze experience, perfect for families seeking fun and challenges. For snow enthusiasts, Snow Farm New Zealand and Treble Cone Ski Area, both located 20.9km from Wānaka, provide excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.

Nightlife

Wānaka boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like Wanaka Paintball, an exciting arcadeAdventureZone that offers family-friendly fun. Just 40.2km away, Paintball Central provides another thrilling experience for adventure seekers, ensuring a lively atmosphere for all ages.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wānaka

To save money on your trip to Wānaka, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June and October, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can also yield better deals, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. Keep an eye on last-minute deals on Expedia for potential discounts. For getting around, walking is a great option, as many attractions are within easy reach. Additionally, combine your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia packages to maximise savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Wānaka are May to June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Wānaka is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Wānaka is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Wānaka is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: By booking an Expedia package, you can save some dollars by combining your Wānaka hotel stay with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in and around Wānaka

Wānaka, nestled in Otago, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor lovers and romantics alike. Explore the charming town, visit the iconic Wānaka tree, and enjoy the stunning scenery at local lookouts. Don’t miss the transport museum and flower gardens, which cater to families and culture seekers. With top attractions and activities, Wānaka promises an unforgettable experience for every type of traveller.

• Wanaka Lavender Farm: Immerse yourself in a vibrant floral paradise at Wanaka Lavender Farm, where you can stroll through fields of fragrant lavender. The farm offers a tranquil family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely day out, complete with stunning views and delightful lavender-infused products.
• That Wanaka Tree: Standing alone in the water, That Wanaka Tree is an iconic symbol of the region and a must-see for photographers. Located a mile from the town centre, this picturesque tree showcases the stunning natural beauty and cultural significance of Wānaka, making it a memorable spot for visitors.
• Warbirds & Wheels: Explore the fascinating world of aviation and classic cars at Warbirds & Wheels. This transport museum offers engaging exhibits that celebrate history and technology, providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Best time to go to Wānaka

The best time to visit Wanaka can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Wanaka falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Wanaka falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	35.6°F (2.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Wānaka

Accessing Wānaka, Otago, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is situated 48.3km away. Notable hotels close to ZQN include the 5-star Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1.3km from the airport, and The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments, 4.8km away. Wanaka Airport (WKA) is a mere 8.0km from Wānaka, with excellent accommodation options like Lime Tree Lodge, 3.2km from WKA, offering transport services. Other nearby lodgings include Wanaka Haven and Lakeshore Springs Apartments, making your travel seamless and enjoyable.