Wanaka

Much like its larger neighbour Queenstown, Wanaka is renowned for its glorious lakeside setting, incredible views over Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps and a seasonal diversity that caters to every kind of activity you may wish for. Yet, in contrast to Queenstown, this resort is far more laid-back and enjoys a certain tranquillity that is favoured by many visitors. The town sits on the south shore of Lake Wanaka and is within easy access of the West Coast, Fiordland and Mt Cook.

Quite apart from the obvious attraction of the landscape, Wanaka offers much for the visitor to see and do. There are several museums in town, including the New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum, which is quite appropriate in a town that offers a range of aerial activities ranging from paragliding to sightseeing by Tiger Moth. Another worthwhile distraction is the intriguing Puzzling World, two miles out of town, featuring a 1.5 km maze and designed to confuse!

For those looking to get out and about, there is a choice of easy day walks and boat cruises on the lake as well as a host of more adventurous activities such as canyoning, kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding and jeep safaris. During the winter months, Wanaka is a popular ski resort with three internationally rated ski areas.