Located in the stunning alps of the South Island in New Zealand, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding natural beauty. Wanaka’s lakes and mountains and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities. It’s not just the outdoor enthusiasts who have plenty to do, stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries, stylish shops and be spoilt for choice with a great selection of cafes and restaurants. Wanaka stages more than its fair share of world-class events throughout the year. Arts and music festivals, international sporting and aviation events, each as unique as the season it is staged.
Aside from those truly majestic mountains that envelop it, Wanaka's most dominant physical feature is it's eponymous, magnificently pristine lake. The turquoise Lake Wanaka, which covers nearly 200 square kilometres, is the fourth largest in New Zealand, with a depth of 300 metres. Even in summer, you're unlikely to spot many, if any, swimmers braving its chilly waters, but while you may not find yourself in the lake, you're sure to spend time around it, above it or on it during your visit to Wanaka.