Wanaka is a fun-filled place to spend a lovely, long Easter weekend.
While the busy summer holidays have well and truly wrapped up, the weather often remains mild, leaving plenty of options for activities in and around Wanaka. You may not get to ski just yet - but that’s just one of the many things to do in Wanaka and there are plenty of other activities we recommend for this gorgeous time of year.
Wheels at Wanaka
Wheels at Wanaka is held every second year, alternating with the arguably better-known ‘Wings over Wanaka’. As you’ve probably guessed, Wheels at Wanaka celebrates all things on wheels (and tracks!) Held at Three Parks, the event includes an enormous vintage fair showcasing a massive variety of trains, tractors, cars, motorcycles, trucks, earthmovers and heavy machinery. Kids will love the entertainment - tractor-pulling, rally cars, earthmoving demonstrations and parades - as well as the many food and drink options and stalls to explore. If you have a motorhome or caravan you can even stay on-site at the campground.
The world’s highest waterfall cable climb
If you’re up for a challenge and you love breathtaking scenery, this one’s for you! Wildwire will see you climb among the stunning Twin Falls waterfalls up to 450m above ground. With the help of a guide, you’ll climb hundreds of steel rungs via a secure, protected, climbing path, while attached to a cable that is fixed to the rock along the route. You’ll also cross wire bridges over the falls and walk sections of the trail on solid ground. It’s perfectly safe and not overly difficult but may be a challenge for those afraid of heights! Climbs range from 150m (three hours) to 450m (seven hours) so make sure you have plenty of time up your sleeve.
A wine tour with a taste of culture
The team at Wanahaka have designed local wine tours with a difference, showcasing incredible wineries while sharing important aspects of Maori culture in the region and its inherent ties to the natural landscape. You’ll experience the unique hospitality of the Maori culture and receive an authentic welcome all while enjoying some of the region’s finest pinot noir and sauvignon blanc and learning about what makes the area’s wines so special.
Explore Mou Waho Island
Mou Waho Island is one of four major islands on Lake Wanaka. You can get out there by powerboat, catamaran or jetski and have a guide show you around the scenic reserve, Bird-watchers will love it - there are Weka living on the island along with many other New Zealand native birds. The island has its own small lakes and pools with crystal clear waters as well as some small secluded beaches along its shores. You can even camp out there if you like - just leave the dogs at home!
A day at the museums
If you feel like spending some time indoors, Wanaka has some cool and unique galleries and museums to explore. First there’s the Picture Lounge, with an incredible variety of photographs by New Zealand artists that are available for purchase in many forms. Gallery 33 also showcases some wonderful Australasian artists and their creations through painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass and jewellery. The Metalworks gallery is also well worth a look - especially if you’re in the market for high-end sculpture, homewares or furniture that’s different to anything else you’ve seen.
There are so many things to do in Wanaka at Easter time - we’ve barely scratched the surface! Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park is just a 20-minute walk to town and a short walk to the lakefront too… So if you’re staying with us there are plenty of options right at your doorstep.
Posted by Andrea Kendrick on March 05, 2021