Lake Wānaka

Lake Wānaka covers about 198 square kilometres in the mountains of the South Island's interior and is more than 300 metres deep, a long stretch of clear water ringed by peaks that carry snow well into summer, with four small islands, among them Ruby Island and Mou Waho. The town on its shore is smaller and quieter than Queenstown and works as a base for the outdoors: the hike up Roys Peak, a steep climb to a ridge with one of the most photographed views in the country, out over the lake and its islands to the mountains beyond; walks and cycle trails along the shore; and, within reach, the glaciers, rivers and peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. A single willow, known as That Wānaka Tree, grows out of the water a little way from the shore. In autumn the trees around the town turn gold, and in winter skiers head for the nearby fields.

What's there

• Roys Peak - the steep climb to the famous ridge view over the lake and mountains.
• The Wānaka Tree - the lone willow growing out in the lake, a photographers' icon.
• The lakeshore - walks and cycle trails along the clear water.
• Mount Aspiring National Park - the glaciers, valleys and peaks within reach.

When to go

Each season has its appeal: summer for swimming, walking and long days; autumn for golden colour; winter for snow and skiing; spring for blossom and fewer people. Roys Peak is best on a clear day and starts early to beat both the heat and the crowds.

Things to know

The Roys Peak track is a long, steep, exposed climb that is much harder than its famous photo suggests, with little shade, so it demands fitness, water and an early start. The Wānaka Tree is a single willow that draws crowds of photographers, and some find the reality underwhelming against the hype. The town has grown popular and busy in peak summer and winter. It is quieter than Queenstown but no longer a secret.

Nearby

Queenstown is an hour away over the Crown Range; the gold-rush town of Arrowtown and Mount Aspiring lie nearby.

Key facts