Wanaka, South Island Tours & Activities in 2026

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 221.52

Living a rich life is about experiences, not stuff – our spectacular backyard is full of adventure and we want to share it with you. Get out of your comfort zone and be rewarded as we conquer the highest waterfall cable climb in the world together. Our intermediate climb involves approximately 3hrs of climbing steel ladder rungs and crossing 6 bridges next to a spectacular waterfall and finishes with approximatley 45 minutes walk down a mountainside trail. This tour is perfect for active adventurers who love the exploring outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. You will be climbing next to vertical waterfalls and being happy with heights helps! Stay dry. No experience required. If you are hesitant or just want a smaller taste, we recommend our Level 1 / Beginner climb.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 76.79

A brilliant way to explore the area and see the beauty all around. You will ride across plateaus, surrounded by mountains on relatively easy grade 1-2 family friendly trails. The recommended route follows trails all the way from Hawea, alongside the Hawea river, through Albert Town and then follows the Clutha river to Wanaka. On your way there are lots of interesting places to visit including Lake Hawea, Pembroke Patisserie, Wanaka, the Wanaka Tree and the Edgewater Hotel garden bar.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 93.92

Lets us take you on amazing Jet boat ride down the Mighty Clutha river. Amazing world renowned scenery , snow capped mountains and the famous Historic Red Bridge". The Clutha river is the second longest river in New Zealand. The river flows swiftly through the Upper Clutha Valley between ancient glacial terraces. We will take you through the long section called the "Snake" before reaching a rare switchback feature called the 'Devils Nook". Before heading back upstream to take in the magnificent views of the mountains.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 412.91

Saddle up on this very unique horse trekking experience, just 20 minutes from Wanaka. The half-day High Country Pub horse trek takes you up into the beautiful mountains of Cardrona Valley allowing breath taking views of the surrounding Pisa and Crown Ranges and Cardrona Ski Area. No riding experience is necessary as all tuition is provided, however if you want to cut loose there are many chances for trotting and cantering on this ride and a stopover at the historic Cardrona Hotel to stretch your legs and enjoy a drink on us! Please note we do not "JUST WALK" on this ride **PLEASE SPECIFY YOUR HORSE RIDING ABILITY UPON BOOKING SO THE APPROPRIATE HORSES ARE SELECTED FOR YOUR RIDE**

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 170.21

Come deep into the Matukituki Valley on the most exciting 4-hour jet boating adventure in New Zealand, beneath the spectacular scenery of Glaciers and Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film locations, into world heritage Mount Aspiring National Park. Flowing from Glaciers, the pristine waters of the Matukituki River are perfect to experience the longest and most spectacular jet boat tour in New Zealand. Travel at speed over shallow braids, drift into turns and yes… experience exciting spins, stopping in deep pools to breathe in the magic of the landscape & hear stories of our land from your local guides. Deep in the mountains, off the beaten track, enjoy a 50-minute guided walk through moss covered forest, waterfalls and glacier fed streams in an area so special you won't want to leave.  For those looking for even more of an adventure then check out our new Packraft Wanaka Tripadvisor listing!!!  

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 82.11

Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks. Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters. Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island. Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.  

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 79.75

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world greatest scenery. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80 kph, now picture doing this down New Zealand’s swiftest river with no seat belt and no brakes; that’s one way to get your adrenaline levels through the roof. Our trip makes the best of blood pumping adrenaline along with some of the world’s best scenery in the background.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 168.35

Lake Cruise and Mou Waho Island Nature Walk • A “must see” in Wanaka, take a 30 minute cruise to the remote, predator free Mou Waho Island, home to the rare and flightless Buff Weka (extinct on mainland NZ). • Optional one hour return guided bush walk, taking you up to reveal the island’s secret- a lake on top of the island! • Morning (or afternoon) tea supplied, overlooking both lakes. • Plant a native tree on the island as part of this unique eco-experience! • Departures 9.00am and 1.30pm, allow 4 hours.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 120.57

Living a rich life is about experiences, not stuff – our spectacular backyard is full of adventure and we want to share it with you. Get out of your comfort zone and be rewarded as we conquer the highest waterfall cable climb in the world. Our Level 1 climb involves approximately 45mins of physical climbing and 4 bridge crossings. Our Via ferrata tour is perfect for those who love the outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. It is suitable for beginners, families and hesitant adventurers with basic fitness. No experience required. Your tour starts at the waterfall where your friendly guide will fit your safety gear and teach you how to use the equipment before starting the climb. You will be climbing on steel ladder rungs and crossing wire bridges to finish at a beautiful picnic spot. We then walk down a mountain trail and back to the base.   If you are more adventurous and are looking to explore more in this incredible vertical world, we recommend our intermediate Level 2 climb.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 40.76

Relax with a drink as you bask in the evening light on the lake! This one hour cruise has one wine, beer, RTD or soft drink included in the ticket and is a great way to see the lake scenery before your evening meal. The cruise is fully licensed so further drinks can be purchased on board for just $7.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 176.62

The Ultimate Lake and Mountain Adventure Wanaka’s boat and 4×4 tour brings you the best of both worlds with views from the lake and land looking over remote islands and National Parks. From start to finish we are off the beaten path, no people, truly remote, truly stunning. The best place to enjoy the views and your gourmet picnic!  The 4 hour tour departs from the Wanaka Marina and includes a 20 minutes boat ride to and from the base of Mt. Burke where you and your guide board our 4x4. 

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 138.82

Enjoy a jet ski tour exploring all the stunning bays, islands and alpine scenery showcasing the beauty Lake Wanaka has to offer from a different perspective. Come alone or with your partner, family or group of friends to enjoy one of the most fun moments of your Wanaka visit. Release your adrenaline driving our stylish jet skis at your own pace. Whether you have experience or are driving a jet ski for the first time, this excursion is adaptable so you can enjoy the greatest experience whatever your skill levels.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 212.06

Enjoy a 20-minute scenic ride to altitude on this 3-hour sky diving adventure from Wanaka. Strap yourself to a beautiful stranger and soar over the stunning Southern Alps. You will have amazing views over the snow capped mountains, glaciers, lakes and the South island's longest River, the Clutha. Skydiving is one of life's must do's and Wanaka is one of the most stunning places to tick off your bucket list. Free transport from central Wanaka is included.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 194.93

Explore by 4WD the private backroads of West Wanaka Station an iconic alpine mountain farm high in the mountains surrounding Lake Wanaka. Pass herds of Red Deer, Angus Cattle and sheep grazing in their natural environment.  Climb Wanaka's very own "road to heaven" to our exclusive alpine cafe for refreshments and  jaw-dropping panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and beyond to Mt Aspiring National Park.  Our expert local guides provide in-depth knowledge on Wanaka's history and farming life. Off-road adventures do not come more authentic than this.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 99.83

Experience this one-of-a-kind wine tasting with a fascinating Māori culture spin! Learn about Māori history and their experiences of this region while sampling many wonderful wines. Of the wineries listed we will visit 2, if you have a preference please let me know.

Wanaka , South Island

From $ 19.20

Enjoy this iconic, unique attraction that since 1973 has fascinated people of all ages keen to engage in a fun, challenging and sensory experience.  Encouraging problem solving and entertainment try the world’s first multi-storied Great Maze and the huge Puzzle Café where you can try your hand at one of many brain-benders at the tables.  Mind not boggled? - Visit the six Illusion rooms from brand new, fully immersive ‘glow rooms’, following faces and a shrinking room to one where sculptures defy physics and another where objects glide uphill, your notion of reality will be tested! Just wait until you check out the bathrooms where more visual trickery awaits. Located 2km on the main highway north of Wanaka, this is a must-see attraction on any itinerary.