Guidebook for Wanaka

There is so much to do in Wanaka, enough to fill a few weeks' stay! Outdoors: walking, hiking, biking, e-biking, mountaineering, rock-climbing, kayaking, swimming, paddle-boarding, boat-tours, paragliding, canyoning, fishing, hunting, exploring the Lavender Park, visiting the Wanaka Tree, the Wanaka Artisan Market (Thursdays 3-6pm), skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing in winter, etc. Indoors: art galleries, many cafe, bar, and restaurant options, indoor rock-climbing (Basecamp), indoor swimming pool, sports recreation centre (tennis, badminton, etc.), wine tasting, Puzzling World, two wonderful little cinemas (Cinema Paradiso and Ruby's Cinema), some of the best sports shops in the country, etc. I-site: Our local Info Centre (Lake Wanaka Tourism) can help you out find the perfect activity, or book any tours. They are located at 103 Ardmore street, on the road that runs along town and the lakefront (open daily 8.30-5pm), phone +64 3 443 1233. DOC: For information about our National Parks and any DOC walks or huts, please visit our local DOC office (Department of Conservation - Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre at the very top of Ardmore street before you head into town, or phone +64 3 443 7660. Our favourites include: - Walking the trails around the lake: there is a continuous walking/biking trail between Glendhu Bay and Albert Town, all along the lake shore and the Clutha River outlet, just park anywhere and head in any direction! - Hiring one of Good Rotations electric-bicycles to ride the trails around the lake or to explore town (10% discount for Hillhaven guests). - Paddle-boarding or kayaking on the lake with Paddle Wanaka. - Canyoning in one of our local rivers/cascades with DeepCanyon. - Heading out to Mount Aspiring National Park for a scenic drive and a rewarding walk up to Rob Roy Glacier (full day trip from Wanaka). - Wine tasting at Maude or Rippon wineries. - Heading out to Wanaka Wastebusters for their welcoming vibe, quirkiness and second hand shop. - Driving out to Lake Hawea (10 minute drive) and walking the Gladstone track. - Grabbing a coffee from the Good Spot café caravan (34 Anderson Road, 2 minute drive from Hillhaven) and having a chat with the locals. - Going for a strenuous hike up to Mt Roy or Mt Isthmus. - Checking out the craft and food stands at the Wanaka Artisan Market, every Thursday 3-6pm in front of the Speights Ale House. - Buying snacks and drinks in town and chilling at your accommodation at Hill Haven, taking the views in: The Mediterranean Market (opposite Caltex petrol station) is great for cheese, breads, cold-cuts, fruit & veg, and lots of other treats, including the Wanaka Chocolate Workshop salted caramels and peanut butter cups! Pembroke Wines is the place to go for advice on local wines and craft beers. Soul Food is a great organic food shop with lots of beautiful treats, including the best&healthiest bread in town from the Peoples' Bread. - Waiting for the dark and indulging in an outdoor hot bath at your accommodation at Hillhaven (only available at our 3 chalets), trying to count the shooting stars. Our private baths easily fit two people, so grab a cup of tea or pop a bottle of champagne and enjoy this special time with your favourite human!