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About Wanaka
Wanaka is like a lower octane version of Queenstown. The views of a vast, tranquil lake and high peaks are similar, and the town offers similar opportunities to skiers, sailors and hikers. But this is a much smaller centre, more a town than a city and there’s a lot less busy buzz. Many of the best places to stay in Wanaka are small lodges or B&Bs with only one or two rooms, but there are also larger properties if that’s what you prefer. Wanaka has only recently started to become a popular destination as more people realise how close it is to the Mount Aspiring National Park and the stunning Lake Wanaka.
What Not To Miss
Place to Stay in Wanaka 9.0 Superb 143 reviews Wanaka Heights Motel is a 5-minute drive from the shores of Lake Wanaka and Wanaka Golf Course. It offers rooms with a balcony or a patio with views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Guests enjoy 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi daily. Show more Show less. Dec 18, 2017 Set right across the shores of Lake Wanaka, The Moorings is revered for its lovely views, friendly hospitality and convenient location. There are two types of accommodation on offer there: the motel studios, which sleep up to three people, or the two- and three-bed apartments (ideal for those travelling in a group of five to six people).
- There’s world-renowned fly fishing on the lakes and rivers surrounding the town - providing visitors a great chance to enjoy the tranquil side of New Zealand.
- One of the best ways to explore the dramatic scenery is by renting a bike. With a variety of road and mountain bike options available and no shortage of routes - there's something for everyone wanting to explore.
- Wanaka is within striking distance of the snow fields of Treble Cone, Cardrona, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables providing an ample number of pistes for skiers of all abilities.
- Experience some of the extreme and spectacular outdoor pursuits that New Zealand is famous for such as canoeing, jet-boating, rafting, climbing and horse riding. While Wanaka might not offer quite the same level of adrenalin fuelled delights as Queenstown, it’s still possible to sky dive or bungy jump here.
- Enjoy the delights the beautiful lake has to offer. With options for swimming, sailing and windsurfing - there's no shortage of activities for all the family.
- Or for something a little different, Wanaka also has a winery and a brewery and an impressive military aircraft museum.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Wanaka are ideally situated to make the most of this great town, whether you're here for the outdoor sports or simply to soak up the views.
For the views
- If you’re looking for a luxurious spot to unwind surrounded by spectacular views then the six room Whare Kea Lodge and Chalet is for you. Rooms have all the mod. cons. and more, plus there’s a hot tub, a day spa and space to store your skis.
- Suite 51 is a peaceful apartment that has been converted from the owner’s own property. This time you get a whole floor with spectacular views over Mount Aspiring, Treble Cone and Lake Wanaka.
For an active break
- Theloft@Hiddenhills is a boutique B&B with just one apartment - separated from the owner’s house. There’s a dining room, living area and outdoor deck and the owners have plenty of bikes and fishing rods available to use. There’s also parking space for a boat.
For an apartment or cottage
- If you'd prefer your own space, don't hesitate to visit our online partner Booking.com for a superb variety of properties close to the lake.
Travel Information
- Fly to Queenstown Airport located approximately 60km (37 miles) from Wanaka. The airport provides a range of Domestic Connections and several International flights to Australia.
- If you want to rent a car to explore the dramatic mountains and lakes, for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
- Best time to visit - for the warmest weather, the summer months from December to February provide pleasant weather for outdoor pursuits. However, if you want to take advantage of the skiing opportunities, the winter months from July to September typically offer good snow conditions.
![Lake wanaka tree Lake wanaka tree](/uploads/1/2/4/9/124935223/943541950.jpg)
Still not sure?
- Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Wanaka,
- Alternatively, expand your search to include the best places to stay in Queenstown or include the whole of the South Island
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Great walks - Wanaka Outlet walk and cycle tracks along Clutha River 1km awayRestrictions on children
Oakridge Resort173 roomsfrom £143
WanakaA contemporary property boasting an enviable location very close to beautiful Lake Wanaka. Well appointed modern rooms are light and airy and offer fabulous views from the expansive windows. Boasting outdoor hot-pools and an indulgent spa. An ideal base to explore the region from.
Active Holiday - Close to Lake Wanaka, this relaxing hotel is surrounded by nature, a great starting point for outdoor activities
Sights nearby - Puzzle world- a mix of bizarre buildings, rooms of illusion and the Great Maze, designed to baffle your brain
Great walks - There is a popular track and one of the best day hikes in the area nearby
Suite 512 roomsfrom £200
WanakaJust two individually designed suites with kitchen equipment for those who want to self cater. Lovely mountain views and easy walking distance from town. Close to wineries, walking and cycling tracks. Perfect for a romantic hideaway.
Views - Over Lake Wanaka, Treble Cone and Mount Aspiring
Restrictions on children - This is an adults only property
Local markets - Good for local colour.
Wanaka Haven5 roomsfrom £185
WanakaA luxurious and well-appointed lodge with beautiful views. Interiors are chic and contemporary yet still with a cosy lodge feel. Expect expanses of glass, wood-burning stoves, pale wooden floors and plush leather sofas. A warm property perfect to return to after a day spent outdoors.
Back to Nature - Appreciate the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. Mountains merging into lakes, sunny crisp air and crystal clear waters
Eco break - Geothermal underfloor heating throughout the lodge and the highest environmental practices adhered to
Sights nearby - Puzzling world- regularly voted one of New Zealand’s best family attractions, experience the eccentric maze or Illusions room
Fishing - Brown trout, rainbow trout and salmon can all be found in the local waters. Shoreline fishing or take a boat to the best spots
Back to Nature - On an estate outside Lake Wanaka in a relaxed country setting with stunning 360 degree uninterrupted mountain views
Great walks - Venture into the hills and mountains surrounding Wanaka for wonderful hikes
Views - With stunning mountain views, garden views and pool view
Fishing - Fish at one of the easily accessible lakeside spots
Mahu Whenua4 roomsfrom £990
WanakaA boutique hotel with four suites in a private national park with a strong eco and conservation emphasis. Luxury suites offer spectacular views across the hills (best enjoyed from the bath). Feast on meals made using seasonal produce, much of it grown on the property. Superb.
Back to Nature - Spans over 200sq miles of majestic beauty – towering mountains, lush green valleys, native bush, forests and meandering rivers
Foodies - A creative and innovative Mahu Whenua chef will tailor the menu to your requirements and source the freshest local produce
Eco break - On 200 sq miles of eco-sanctuary; effectively New Zealand’s first privately owned national park
Birdwatching - Much birdlife to see, including birds of paradise and Weka birds, which are supported by Mahu Whenua’s conservation projects
![Lake Lake](/uploads/1/2/4/9/124935223/273644478.jpg)
Don and Lorraine were our exceptional hosts during our two-day stay at Lake Wanaka. Not only did they serve amazing breakfasts in the morning, they gave us great advice on restaurants in town, hiking trails around the lake and on neighboring peaks, and other spots to see in New Zealand. Our morning conversations was the reason why we chose to go the bed and breakfast route instead of going to bigger hotels. We feel like we became friends in a short time and will definitely keep in contact over email in the future.
The room had a great view of the lake and the center of town was a short walk down the waterfront. The modern-style room was immaculately clean and a pleasure to come home to after a long day of hiking. Every trail they recommended was spot-on with great views of the area. We liked our stay so much that we already started recommending the place to other people during the remainder of our New Zealand trip. When we stayed at another Bed and Breakfast place in Motueka, the hosts asked us about good places that we had visited that they could recommend to their guests. We immediately told them about Aspiring Lofts.
In short, perfect location, great room, awesome breakfasts, and gracious and knowledgeable hosts. THank you Don and Lorraine for a great stay!
-Brian and StaceyMore
Show lessThe room had a great view of the lake and the center of town was a short walk down the waterfront. The modern-style room was immaculately clean and a pleasure to come home to after a long day of hiking. Every trail they recommended was spot-on with great views of the area. We liked our stay so much that we already started recommending the place to other people during the remainder of our New Zealand trip. When we stayed at another Bed and Breakfast place in Motueka, the hosts asked us about good places that we had visited that they could recommend to their guests. We immediately told them about Aspiring Lofts.
In short, perfect location, great room, awesome breakfasts, and gracious and knowledgeable hosts. THank you Don and Lorraine for a great stay!
-Brian and StaceyMore