About Wānaka

Wānanga 3. (noun);

tribal knowledge, lore, learning.

For centuries this place has been shaped by a deep connection to whenua (land) and a spirit of learning. With the name Wānaka a South Island variant of the word “wānanga” place of learning.

Spectacular landscapes are an important part of what makes this place so unique and it is the wairua (spirit) created by these ancient landscapes that shapes the experience of being in Wānaka and connects everyone who visits—whether for a few hours, or a lifetime.

No-one who comes to Wānaka can fail to be awed by the sheer beauty and majesty of the place. We think it’s one of the most special places in the world.

We all have a role to play in the tiaki (care) of this place.

Driving to Wānaka

Driving on the South Island roads of New Zealand is a great way to experience the region, with relatively quiet roads and some of the most amazing scenery right outside the window.

Major car and campervan hire companies are all located at Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown airports. There are also a number of rental car companies based in Wānaka.

Driving To Wānaka

Explore Region

The Wānaka region is home to six distinct areas; Wānaka and Albert Town, Lake Hāwea, Makarora, Matukituki Valley, Cardrona, Wānaka Airport & Luggate. Wander outside of Wānaka town to discover something new.

Discover the Regions

Flights to Wānaka

Wānaka is a 60 minute drive from Queenstown Airport over the Crown Range Road or via the Kawarau Gorge – both stunning drives. There are two other airports in close proximity: Dunedin and Christchurch.

Wānaka also has its own airport for scenic and charter flights and you can fly daily with Sounds Air direct to Christchurch from here.

Flights to Wānaka

Driving to Wānaka

Driving on the South Island roads of New Zealand is a great way to experience the region, with relatively quiet roads and some of the most amazing scenery right outside the window.

Major car and campervan hire companies are all located at Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown airports. There are also a number of rental car companies based in Wānaka.

Driving To Wānaka

Explore Region

The Wānaka region is home to six distinct areas; Wānaka and Albert Town, Lake Hāwea, Makarora, Matukituki Valley, Cardrona, Wānaka Airport & Luggate. Wander outside of Wānaka town to discover something new.

Discover the Regions

Flights to Wānaka

Wānaka is a 60 minute drive from Queenstown Airport over the Crown Range Road or via the Kawarau Gorge – both stunning drives. There are two other airports in close proximity: Dunedin and Christchurch.

Wānaka also has its own airport for scenic and charter flights and you can fly daily with Sounds Air direct to Christchurch from here.

Flights to Wānaka

Wānaka Stories

Discover Wānaka through stories from locals and travellers.

About Wānaka

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