Wanaka
(population 3600)This is a popular town situated at Lake Wanaka. It lies between beautiful mountains and lakes. The town offers many Outdoor activities in Wanaka Region but also some cultural activities. This town has many similarities with Queenstown but is in sharp contrast with its atmosphere; Queenstown is very touristy, Wanaka is laid back. Wanaka is considered as the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park lying in Westcoast.
For more information about the Outdoor activities in Wanaka Region in which the Outdoor activities of Wanaka are undertaken in, please look at "Area's of Interest" "Wanaka Region".
Outdoor
Tramping
There is a DOC brochure with walks and trails in Wanaka. This brochure will mention long and short walks of which some are in Wanaka town.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Puzzling World Complex
This place offers a three dimensional maze. The maze acquires you to navigate 1,5km. It is quite complicated to navigate. There is a section which is very much fun for kids in particular; Puzzling World.
Wanaka Beerworks
Here you can taste the beer brewer his creations.
Festivals
Warbirds over Wanaka
Each even numbered year Wanaka Airport is host of the festival Warbirds over Wanaka. It is a huge international air show which attracts many people.
Museums
New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum
This museum at Wanaka Airport tells the stories behind New Zealand's war pilots. They also have descriptions about the airplanes they flew with.
Wanaka Transport and Toy Museum
This museum displays an one man personal collection. The transport section has a Cadillac, antique motorcycles etc. The toy section is fun for everyone; it will bring you back to your own youth.