New Zealand · WANAKA TOURS
Every trip has one free day too few. These 15 wanaka tours justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part of planning.
Wildwire Wanaka Level 2 is a 4-hour waterfall via ferrata near Wānaka with steel ladders, lunch, gear, and small-group guides.
“Liv was an amazing guide and this was such a wonderful experience! Adrenaline was going but felt very safe the whole time!”
Bike e-bikes on Wanaka and Hawea trails with shuttle, helmet and 8L trunk bag. Family-friendly gravel river ride, self-guided.
“Fantastic views and great bikes. Really good instruction on the route and back up from James. If you’re not used to cycling far then opt for an e-bike. Great trails, a bit challenging in places.”
Lake Wanaka happy hour cruise on a luxury 17m catamaran with included wine or beer, cheese and crackers, and stunning mountain views.
“What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon on the gorgeous Lake Wanaka. Our Capt Toby was amazing and the ride was just so enjoyable. the views were outstanding.”
Small-group jet boat on the Clutha River from Wanaka, with live history commentary, 360 spins, camera stops, and a handy Albert Town transfer.
“Pat was a very skilled and knowledgeable pilot and we had a great time while learning some 'fun facts' about the Clutha and surrounds. Would absolutely highly recommend this to anyone up for an adrenaline rush. Thanks to Pat, Tracey and Gabi for making our time with Go Jets Wanaka full of fun and lots of smiles in a spectacular part of NZ.”
Ride a Wanaka water taxi to Mou Waho Island for a hike to a hidden lake, Weka bird encounters, and a Lake Wanaka swim.
“It was very fun! The water taxi itself on the way to the island was very comfortable. The guide, Brent, was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The time allocated on the island was just perfect; we managed to explore every path we wanted to and made it back in time for the trip back.”
Intermediate+ horseback trek in Cardrona, Wanaka, with gold-rush tales, river crossings, and a stop for a free hotel drink.
“I had a lovely time on Stu! He had a personality and kept everyone in line. The trek is through mild hills with lovely scenery- sheep, deer (a baby was born during our trek!), cows, and lupins galore. Truly a beautiful and memorable experiRead more”
Jet boat spins on the Matukituki River, then a guided walk in Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka in about 4 hours.
“Perfect mix of jet boat and stunning scenery. James was an excellent host. What an amazing way to access otherwise inaccessible places.”
Tandem freefall from 9,000 to 15,000 ft over Wanaka, with Southern Alps views, Mount Cook, and 25 to 60 seconds of freefall.
“Highly recommended! Our instructors are super professional and friendly! The weather is great and views are marvelous.”
Water taxi to Mou Waho Island from Wānaka, hike to Arethusa Pool, spot weka and geckos, with live geology commentary.
“A wonderful day on the lake! Our host (i'm sorry I've forgotten his name) was great, his knowledge of the geography, fauna and flora, and the local history was well explained. We saw lots of wild life and really enjoyed the view from the bluff. A great day out.”
Jet boat thrills on Wanaka and the Clutha River with live eco stories, Hamilton Spin, and a small-group ride from the lakefront.
“We did this boat trip today & because the lake was rough we drove with the boat 1ins up the road to get onto the river. Matt was brilliant, he drove the boat very competently and shared his local knowledge at relevant points along the trip. We rode close to the trees and did several Hamilton turns as well as riding fast over rapids and along the river. There were only 4 of us on the trip but we were made to feel very safe and welcome. I would highly recommend this boat trip to anyone staying in Wanaka.”
Pedal from Lake Hāwea to Wānaka on river trails, with quality bikes, shuttle pickup, and an Albert Town stop. E-bikes available.
“Our guide James was amazing. He took the time to show us various location points as we went up to Hawea drop of point, so we wouldn't get lost. The bikes were perfect and great quality. Much better than the Queenstown one i hired the week before. Highly recommend NZbiketrails and the actual trail ride is easy with amazing scenery!”
A 2-hour Lake Wanaka catamaran to Stevensons Island with a guided nature walk, summit views, and included tea, coffee, cookies.
“It was a very windy and rainy day but the boat is a good size and handled the trip well. The walk on the island was a bit uphill, but the view at the end was worth it. Great staff on board.”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to predator-free Mou Waho, plant a native tree, hike to an island lake, and enjoy tea with an expert guide.
“Chris, our host, was amazing with his eco knowledge and stories - brilliant trip and memorable experience! John and Maria”
Wanaka jet boat thrills on the Clutha River, with 80 km/h runs, Hamilton Spin, and snow-capped views. Small group, 1 hour, $83.
“It was awesome. Matt our guide was terrific. Great knowledge of the area.”
1-hour Lake Wanaka cruise with a free wine or beer, cheese and crackers, and big sunset views past Ruby Island and the Lone Tree.
“This experience was good. I felt safe on the boat, not too crowded and the whole trip was worth the money.”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
