Quick Links
In Wānaka, arrival is more than a destination. Whether you come over the Crown Range from Queenstown, through Lindis Pass from Christchurch, or along the lake from the Haast Pass, the drive becomes part of the experience.
There is a moment everyone remembers. The road bends, the horizon opens, and Lake Wānaka comes into view. The water shines beneath the mountains and time seems to slow. That first glimpse sets the tone for your stay.
Wānaka is named after Oanaka, a local chief. The lake’s full name, Lake Wānaka, reflects the area’s strong Māori heritage, where stories of people and place are closely linked. As you travel, you follow routes that have been valued for generations.
We can’t wait to see you.
However you travel, the journey to Wānaka is part of the experience. Whether you’re flying in, driving through the Southern Alps, or taking a coach from Queenstown, each route reveals the landscape that makes this place so special.
Driving to Wānaka, as part of your South Island holiday, is a great way to see some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand.
The Wānaka region is well serviced by a number of bus companies which connect Wānaka to Queenstown, Te Anau, Christchurch, Dunedin, and the West Coast.
Many activity providers offer complimentary pick-up from Wānaka accommodation, making it easy to access hiking tracks, ski fields, and wine tours. Check with your tour operator when booking. Ski shuttles run from Wānaka to both Cardrona and Treble Cone during winter, with bookable bus services available. Both ski fields also offer free mountain road shuttles from bottom car parks to base buildings.
Queenstown connection: Both InterCity (operated by GreatSights) and Ritchies Transport run daily buses between Wānaka and Queenstown (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes). Both services depart from the Log Cabin on Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street.
Wider network: Ritchies connects with InterCity services in Cromwell for onward travel to destinations like Dunedin and Christchurch.
Wānaka has three international airports in close proximity: Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch.
Wānaka is perfectly sized for exploring without a car. The town centre is compact and walkable, with most restaurants, shops, and lakefront attractions within easy walking distance. For longer adventures, you have plenty of sustainable transport options.
Hire an e-bike to explore scenic trails like the Upper Clutha River Track to historic Luggate, or the Newcastle Track which combines into a 28km loop ride. The Glendhu Bay Track offers beautiful lakeside cycling, whilst the Millennium Track skirts the shores and cliff tops of Lake Wānaka. Several local operators offer e-bike rentals and can suggest routes for your fitness level.
