Outdoor & Adventure Tips

Wanaka is basically an outdoor playground, but the conditions here can change fast. Before heading out on any hike or adventure, it’s always worth checking the DOC (Department of Conservation) or dropping into the visitor centre in town. They’ll have the most up-to-date info on track closures, slips, river levels, or any alerts you should know about — especially after heavy rain or in lambing season when certain tracks close temporarily.

Even if a hike seems “easy” online, remember that New Zealand terrain is no joke — steep climbs, loose scree, and quick weather shifts can make even short tracks feel a lot more challenging than expected. Always allow extra time and don’t underestimate the trail.

🥾 What to Bring

Bring plenty of water, especially for longer walks like Roys Peak, Isthmus Peak, or Rob Roy Glacier. Most trails don’t have refill spots, and streams aren’t always safe to drink from. Pack snacks, a windproof layer, and sunscreen — the UV here is so strong, even on cloudy days 🌞

Good shoes make a big difference. Trails can get dusty in summer and muddy in winter, so sturdy footwear with grip is key. And don’t forget a hat — there’s not much shade on some of the popular hikes! Roys Peak and Isthmus Peak in particular are super exposed on the trail.

If you’re planning a full-day mission, throw in a small first aid kit, a head torch (just in case you’re slower on the way back), and a power bank for your phone or camera. You’ll end up taking way more photos than you think, trust meeee!

If you're planning a multi-day trek or an overnight camp somewhere, there's even more gear you'll need to bare in mind. The specifics will depend on your route but things like an emergency blanket, locator beacon (such as the Garmin inReach or an EPIRB) and something to cook/boil water with are non-negotiables. If in doubt, head into one of the many outdoor shops in town and they'll be able to help you out with whatever you need.

🌿 Respect the Outdoors

It sounds simple, but leave no trace really matters here. There are no bins on most trails, so take everything you bring — including food wrappers, tissues, and fruit peels. It’s small stuff, but it adds up, and Wanaka’s beauty relies on everyone doing their bit to keep it that way.

Stick to marked trails, especially in alpine areas where fragile plants grow slowly and can take years to recover. And if you’re heading into the backcountry, always let someone know your plans or use the Plan My Walk app to log your route.

🏊‍♀️ Post-Hike Cool Downs

If you’re keen for a dip after a long hike, the lake is always calling — just know it’s cold all year round. It’s glacier-fed, so even in the middle of summer it’s more of a “refreshing shock” than a warm swim. But honestly, that’s half the fun.

Locals swear by a post-hike plunge to reset your body — Eely Point, Bremner Bay, and the Clutha river are all great spots for a quick swim. Bring a towel, take a deep breath, and go for it.

Have fun out there!!! 🌲🌞🏔️💛