Wanaka is a lively winter town with no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the snow-covered mountains around it. With four ski areas nearby – Cardrona, Treble Cone, Snow Farm, and Soho Basin – youโve got plenty of options. Whether itโs hitting the main ski fields, trying cross-country skiing, or enjoying a more private slope experience, there really is something for everyone. The MajorDomo team can also sort everything for you, from ski fittings in your accommodation to lift passes, heli-skiing, and more.
No matter your style – whether youโre here for skiing, great food and wine, or scenic drives through the countryside – Wanaka delivers in winter. Below, in no particular order, are 20 of the best things to do in and around Wanaka this seasonโฆ
Wanaka is perfectly positioned for you to easily access bothย Treble Coneย andย Cardronaย ski resorts, which are two of the best ski resorts in the country!ย Treble Cone is the South Islandโs largest ski and snowboard resort, offering the greatest vertical drop of any ski field in the Wanaka – Queenstown region, along with renowned off-piste terrain. Cardrona Alpine Resort caters to all levels of snow enthusiasts – from beginners and families through to Olympic and X Games athletes. Its wide, open trails are known for some of New Zealandโs best snow conditions, groomed using a cutting-edge snow management system.
ย If you would like something a little more remote so you can enjoy some freshies and make your own tracks, we can help you organise a private heli-skiing/boarding experience that is catered to your ability level and group dynamic.
Perfect for groups of friends or families, this private experience offers exclusive access to a traditional wood-fired sauna for up to 15 guests. Set your own pace as you alternate between sauna heat and refreshing dips, all while taking in sweeping views of Lake Wฤnaka and the surrounding alpine landscape.
Enjoy the revitalising contrast of intense heat and the crisp, clear waters of Lake Wฤnaka. The sauna is maintained between 85ยฐC and 95ยฐC, and over the course of a one-hour session you can complete up to three rounds, each involving 10 to 15 minutes in the sauna followed by a cooling plunge into the lake. After your session, take time to unwind in the outdoor spaces and soak up the stunning lakefront setting.
Your journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight over Lake Wฤnaka, offering sweeping panoramic views. Touch down in the mountains to meet your local expert guide, before gearing up for your snowshoeing trek. Explore on foot through pristine alpine terrain at around 1,200 metres, surrounded by uninterrupted views.
After your adventure, enjoy a well-earned luxury pause at Lowburn Stationโs private alpine hut. Here, youโll be welcomed with a delicious picnic and mulled wine, with the chance to relax by the fire and take in the peaceful surroundings. Finish the experience with a return helicopter flight over the dramatic landscape, reflecting on an unforgettable day of exploration and truly lasting memories.
For undoubtedly one of the most adventurous experiences in Wanaka, climb alongside a cascading waterfall. You’ll make your way up the Twin Falls waterfall via a purpose-built cable climbing system, witnessing spectacular mountain views along the way. No need to be an experienced climber – this waterfall cable clim has three levels, from an easier 2-hour experience featuring wire bridge crossings, hidden pools and scenic picnic spots, to ‘Lord of the Rungs’ a 4-5 experience suited to active beginners. If you’re really looking for the ‘wow’ factor, the Level 3 climb with a helicopter return might be for you!
Get away from the crowds with a unique snowshoeing adventure with Base Camp Wanaka. Get off the beaten track and enjoy great views, gentle terrain, and the feeling of being completely remote.
Take in the spectacular snow-capped mountains and sweeping views of Lake Wanaka from up above with a scenic helicopter flight.
Central Otago is very well known internationally as producing some of the most celebrated wines in the world and Wanaka is the perfect place to discover these. Lots of local Wanaka businesses offer private and custom wine tours, even in the winter months. For something a little different, immerse yourself in rich Mฤori culture and history whilst tasting up to 23 wines on the Wanaka Wine and Mฤori Culture Tour.
Situated on the spectacular Crown Range Road, Cardona Hotel is an iconic New Zealand hotel. Its rustic charm, amazing mountain setting and rich history makes this hotel the perfect place to spend an afternoon enjoying a mulled wine, and a hot lunch on the comfy leather couches in-front of the roaring fire.
While you are in Cardona Valley, it is definitely worth making a stop at the Cardona Distillery, which is a family-owned and operated distillery that prides itself on making hand-crafted whisky, gin, vodka and liqueurs. Take a tour to learn about the spirit making process and get the opportunity to taste some of these tasty locally made spirits.
The cafรฉ and dining culture in Wanaka is very strong and buzzing all year round. Our top picks for brunch would be Urban Grind, Kai Whakapai, Relishes Cafe or Federal Diner. For lunch our favourites are Florences Food Store, Alchemy, Red Star Burgers, or Big Fig (be sure to takeaway Big Fig and enjoy it by the lake if it is a nice day). If you are heading out for dinner be sure to check out Kika (fine dining), Francesca’s Italian Kitchen (book in advance), The Spice Room (best curries in town), or The Cow (super warm and cozy restaurant with amazing pizzas!).
A unique half-day adventure from Makarora, just outside Wanaka, that includes a scenic flight over Mt Aspiring National Park, a peaceful 7km alpine walk through remote wilderness, and a thrilling jet boat ride along the Wilkin River. Itโs a perfect way to experience the region from the air, on foot, and by water all in one trip. An absolute must-do for visitors to Wanaka looking for a memorable outdoor experience off the beaten track.
Get a bird’s eye view of New Zealand’s highest mountain with a scenic flight from Wanaka. Make sure you pack your camera as these photo opportunities are not ones to be missed! In this 1h 40 flight, you’ll soar over crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and the Fox, Franz Josef and Tasman glaciers, taking in their beauty and sheer size from above.
This is an action-packed event being held from September 6 – 12 2026ย at Cardrona Alpine Resort. Jossi Wells brings together the world’s best riders to his home mountain, Cardrona Alpine Resort where it is an exciting, relaxed vibe where the best battle it out on the snow. The competition includes everything from Rail Jams and Halfpipe to Big Air disciplines, so it is sure going to be an amazing event to watch.ย
This festival is on in Wฤnaka from June 19 to 23, 2026, and Queenstown between June 25 – 26, 2026. The 18th NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival presents a wide range of films, guest speakers, workshops and presentations from inspirational adventurers from within NZ and around the world. Their films and books tell stories of adventure sports, foreign cultures, remote travel and environmental issues.ย
Paradiso is a local Wanaka cinema nestled right in town on Brownston Street . This cinema boasts comfortable old sofas, an old Morris Minor, a cafรฉ and bar serving delicious meals before, during or after the movie. Homemade ice cream, world-famous hot cookies fresh every intermission and a warm welcome from the friendly staff.ย Ruby’s Cinema is another great cinema, located a couple of minutes out of town. This cinema transports you to a time when going to the pictures was a real event. With two gold class cinemas, they offer you a slice of days gone by, a time when the food was good and simple, the drinks strong, and the service impeccable.ย
Whether you are a big kid, a little kid, or just want to get the heart racing, a jet boat ride along New Zealand’s largest river is sure to kick your adrenaline into overdrive. It won’t all be screams and spins though! Expect plenty of photo opportunities, stories from your guide about the rich gold-rush history of these waterways, and chances to relax and enjoy the incredible sights.
Located next to the National Transport and Toy Museum is The Warbirds & Wheels Museum which houses New Zealand’s best collection of rare and exotic classic and vintage vehicles. The attraction also boasts five fighter aircraft from World War 1, World War 2 through to the impressive SkyHawk and more modern jets. There is an old school retro-diner where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat while you are there.ย
This is a wonderful world of weirdness and worth paying a visit if you can handle the opticial illusions, bizarre buildings and getting completely lost in a life size maze! For over forty-five years Puzzling World has been messing with people’s heads no matter what age, nationality or experience. Puzzling World is designed to baffle your brain and challenge your perceptions of reality. Even if you only pay a visit to the extensive Puzzle Centre or New Zealand’s most unusual public toilets, your world will never be the same againโฆ Find out more here.
If you want to stay warm and relaxed this winter, there are lots of beautiful pampering options available in Wanaka. The team at MajorDomo can either organise for a beauty therapist to come to your luxury villa for in-house treatments, alternatively you can check out some of the local spas in town. We suggest booking in to eitherย Sanctuary Day Spaย orย Aspects Salon and Day Spa.
Browse our properties available in Wanaka or send an enquiry to our helpful and knowledgable team to start planning your Wanaka winter escape today!
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