Wanaka - A genuine alpine town

Location: Otago region, South Island, New Zealand

Annual visitors: ~ 300,000 pers.

Wanaka, a charming town that offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure. It’s a hidden gem settled beside Lake Wanaka and near the Southern Alps. It has the buzz of a genuine alpine town and it’s the ultimate hub for outdoor activities.

Wanaka is the perfect destination for exploring the Southern Alps. For adventure seekers, you can go skydiving, canyoning, climbing or mountaineering and in addition, there are hundreds of kilometres of tracks for hiking or biking. The nearby Mount Aspiring National Park is for ultimate hikers and nature lovers. The hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, alpine lakes and glacial valleys. The clear water of the lakes and rivers are ideal for kayaking, fishing, lake cruises and jet-boating. For thrill-seekers, skydiving and heli-skiing are popular choices, providing thrilling experiences against the stunning alpines.

In winter, Wānaka is a vibrant centre for skiers and snowboarders. The town transforms into a snow-covered wonderland! With two major ski resorts - Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone - they’ve got some of the best slopes for skiing or snowboarding.

Beyond its natural allure, Wanaka boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with local galleries showcasing talented artists' works. The town is also filled with cosy cafes and restaurants, serving delicious locally sourced produce cuisine.

 

The Wanaka Willow

 An iconic image of Wanaka is The Wanaka willow, also known as That Wanaka Tree. It’s located at the southern end of Lake Wānaka in the Otago region of New Zealand. This solitary willow tree stands in the waters of the lake. The tree has captured the hearts of many photographers and nature enthusiasts. Its picturesque setting with the Southern Alps in the background makes it a popular place for photographers and travellers. 

The tree stands tall on a small, rocky island, its branches reaching out to the sky, which creates a mesmerizing reflection in the waters below. Despite its humble size, The Wanaka Tree radiates a charm, drawing many visitors who seek to witness the willows' mysterious beauty. 

 But why is the tree so famous? In 2014, a photographer from Christchurch took a photo of the tree on a misty June day. That photograph went on to win the 2014 New Zealand Geographic Photograph of the Year. From that debut, the tree became somewhat of a social media celebrity. Now photographers come to try and capture the perfect shot of this beautiful willow tree.

In conclusion, Wanaka's got it all – nature's finest, heart-thumping adventures, and a touch of small-town charm. It's a gem waiting to be explored in the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.

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