Your Insider’s Guide to 7 Days in Wānaka this Winter

So you’ve landed in Wānaka – and hey, it’s great to have you. Day one, go ahead and take it easy. Stretch the legs, breathe in the fresh lake air, unpack your bags and sort the groceries. Whether you’re staying lakeside or you’re tucked into the hills, there’s plenty to explore in our little mountain town.

Once you’re settled in your accommodation, soak up the snow-capped peaks with a stroll along the lakefront. Grab your keep cups and get a coffee to go or something warm from Big Fig or Relishes, then walk from town around to Waterfall Creek or Eely Point for golden hour. For dinner, try Sofi – a new lakefront restaurant with big Mediterranean flavours, cosy winter vibes, and delicious seasonal cuisine. 

Locals tip: Don’t forget to watch your footprint while you’re in town. Here are a few tips for staying sustainable in your accommodation this winter.

There’s no better way to start your ski week than getting straight on the planks at Cardrona. This mountain is a real all-rounder, with a great mix of terrain for the whole family. Whether you’re a groomer pony, an off-pister, a certified park lapper or a little ripper on the beginner slopes, Cardies has you covered. 

This year, they’ve outdone themselves once again with the official opening of the new chair out in Soho Basin, bringing 150ha of new terrain to the table. Perfect for intermediates and up, this new playground has your name all over it.

At the end of the day, head down to the historic Cardrona Hotel in Cardrona Village for après ski, or take the shuttle back to town.

Locals tip: Book your passes and lessons online in advance to skip the queues. And don’t miss lunch at the famous Noodle Bar – mountain views, Asian fusion, a cheeky bevvy and the perfect excuse to rest the legs.

After a big day shredding up the hill, give your body a chance to recover. Start your morning with a slow brunch at Scroggin or a famously good scone from Edgewater, then lean into a health and wellness day.

We’re talking lakeside saunas at The Outlet or the Secret Sauna in Hāwea, a yoga class with Hot Yoga Fusion, or enjoy a massage at Active Massage Wānaka followed by a soak in their hot tubs. They’re wizards of the local sports community and know exactly how to revive tired ski legs. 

For dinner, dabble in fine wine and dining at Bistro Gentil, a stunning French bistro and winery known for its excellent cuisine, wine pairings, and warm hospitality.

Locals tip: For families, there are plenty of indoor activities that will keep the kids busy off the mountain too. Puzzling World will never fail to get a giggle, scouts honour.

Strap on the planks and get ready for the big runs. Treble Cone is famous for its challenging terrain, jaw-dropping views, and unbeatable powder days. It’s a place where you can push yourself, get (hypothetically) lost in the off-piste lips and dips out in The Saddle, or just get cold teeth hollering into the wind all session long. Do note, TC is best tackled with a bit of skill under your belt. There’s not a whole lot of beginner terrain, so it’s best suited to intermediate riders and up.

Back in town, swing by Rhyme x Reason Brewery for après ski drinks and to refuel with the best bao buns in town, courtesy of the Now Bao food truck just outside.

Locals tip: First time at TC and have the wobbles? Consider a private lesson or two to get you up to speed and unlock the mountain the safe way.

There’s more to winter in Wānaka than just skiing. Blasphemy, we know. But today is the day to ditch the ski boots, rest your shreddy legs, and take a walk through the creative, culinary and cultural side of town with a few non-snow related activities.

Winetasting is a must when you’re in town, and a tipple or two at Rippon Vineyard or the Maude Tasting Room will never do you wrong. Nothing pairs as perfectly with a glass of wine as dreamy lake and mountain views. From there, dive into the Wānaka art scene at a local art gallery – like Gallery Thirty Three or the Wānaka Fine Art Gallery. 

For dinner, Francesca is a crowd favourite. Think your favourite Italian with a Wānaka twist – woodfired pizzas, rich pastas, warm bellies and warmer hearts.

Locals tip: Feeling creative? Explore pottery workshops, art classes, live music gigs, local events and more over at Te Wāhi Toi, the online hub for all things arts, culture and creativity in our region.

Day six, swap the chairlift for something a little quieter (but equally beautiful) at Snow Farm. This high-country gem is just across the valley from the Cardrona Resort, offering cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even overnight hut experiences. Glide (or laugh) along groomed trails with a different kind of ski underfoot, and enjoy unbeatable views over the Pisa Range. Dogs are also welcome if you brought your pup, but make sure they’ve got a ski pass too.

Locals tip: For an extra special experience, book a backcountry hut for an overnight stay in the snow-capped peaks. Ski out, switch off, ski back.

Let your final day be about meaning. Join a local experience that fosters connection and reflection to the people and place you’ve enjoyed this week. Board the Wānaka Water Taxi or join Eco Wānaka Adventures for a guided journey to Mou Waho, where you’ll explore native wildlife like the Buff Weka and hike to the famous lake-on-an-island-on-a-lake.

Later, join a Love Wānaka volunteer event or help out at Grow Wānaka, the local community garden. Giving back is a great way to reduce your footprint, connect with the land, and meet good humans doing meaningful work for this special place we love so much. So, whether it’s planting a tree, pruning the garden, joining a beach clean-up or helping to restore natural habitats, why not explore volunteering opportunities and end your holiday on a meaningful note.

Locals tip: If you can’t find an event that suits your schedule, Love Wānaka makes it easy for you to give back to the land by donating to local environmental efforts, too. Every cent makes a difference.

1. Transport: A rental car or free shuttle makes sorting mountain transport easy. Note that snow chains may be required for alpine roads.
2. Accommodation: Wānaka is full of sustainable accommodation options and places to stay for your ski holiday.  For a longer stay, consider self-contained accommodation like the Alpine Resort Wānaka, hotels like Edgewater or the Wānaka Hotel, or a local motel. 
3. Seasonal considerations: Bring layers, be prepared, and always check the forecast and road conditions before heading out.
4. Sustainability tips: Travel slow. Give yourself a solid week to explore, then slow down, support local, and look for sustainable options wherever you can. You’ll be amazed at how much deeper the connection is.

Winter in Wānaka is so much more than a ski destination. It’s a place to breathe deeply, explore slowly, and connect meaningfully. A longer stay lets you find your rhythm, dig deeper, and leave feeling part of something – and there’s plenty of on- and off-mountain activities to help you do just that.