Wanaka
Wanaka Ski Holidays
On New Zealand’s South Island, Wanaka is a lakeside resort town framed by the Southern Alps and overlooking the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka. Its alpine setting delivers year-round beauty, with winters defined by crisp mornings, deep snow and panoramic mountain views.
Wanaka is a more relaxed alternative to Queenstown, yet it’s still close to four ski resorts: Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. With its combination of premier skiing, boutique dining, luxury stays and non-ski activities, Wanaka appeals to couples, families, groups and discerning travellers seeking a snow holiday without the crowds.
Where is Wanaka?
Wanaka is located in Otago on New Zealand’s South Island. The closest airport is Queenstown, just 55 minutes away by car. Flights from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne to Queenstown take around 3 hours. Alternative airports: Dunedin (3+ hours’ drive) and Christchurch (5+ hours’ drive) can be good options for cheaper flights, especially during peak school holiday periods.
Most visitors hire a car to make the scenic drive, though private shuttles and transfers are available. Ensure your vehicle has snow chains and ski racks, or hire a 4WD Ute so you can store your ski gear in the tray.
Where to Stay in Wanaka
Wanaka offers a mix of boutique hotels, alpine lodges, lakeside apartments and luxury homes.
Best Value Hotel's in Wanaka? The Wanaka Hotel or The Moorings in Wanaka are extremely affordable, the Moorings studio’s have amazing lakeviews, while the Wanaka hotel is in the heart of restaurants and bars.
Best luxury Hotel's in Wanaka? Luxury travellers love the Edgewater Resort in Wanaka, a little further from the action, it’s perfect for couples, or honeymooners, you will want a car to head into town, but the tranquil location and restaurant onsite are well worth it. There are also a selection of houses in Wanaka for luxury travellers.
Best Hotels in Wanaka for Families? The Moorings is in a great location for families, with a kids playground across the road and dining a short walk away.
Our teams fave hotels in Wanaka:
Grace: I loved the Edgewater, the breakfast was amazing and the lakeview was picture perfect.
Jimbob: My Studio at The Moorings was great, amazing lake view and great location to be able to walk to Wanaka’s dining and bars.
Ella: I stayed at the Wanaka Hotel, a very clean, comfortable 3-star property in the heart of town. You're a 3-5 min walk to dozens of shops and restaurants in any direction. Hotel has 3 restaurants connected to it: Scroggin Cafe, Amigos Mexican Grill, Bullock Bar - that you can back charge to the room. A communal kitchen available to cook if you want to eat in, coin operated laundry and 1 car park per room.
Where to Ski in Wanaka
Skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice with four ski resorts within a short drive of Wanaka.
Cardrona Alpine Resort: Only 20 minutes from Wanaka, Cardrona is one of New Zealand’s most popular ski areas. It has extensive beginner and intermediate runs, world-class terrain parks, halfpipes, plus excellent family facilities.
Treble Cone: Famous for its long uncrowded runs, steep faces and challenging off-piste terrain. With the largest skiable area in NZ, it’s a paradise for intermediate and advanced riders, but also has beginner areas.
Coronet Peak & The Remarkables: Around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes from Wanaka. Great options if you want to add variety, with Coronet Peak offering night skiing and The Remarkables delivering family-friendly terrain.
Our Teams Recommendations for skiing from Wanaka:
Loz: Cardrona was my fave mountain, the terrain is awesome for all levels, the on-mountain dining was excellent, Vista Bar was a perfect spot for a drink or hot chocolate.
Jimbob: Soho Basin at Cardrona was a highlight, good for intermediate to advanced skiers or snowboarders.
Ella: Treble Cone was awesome, but it’s not for beginners.
Is Wanaka good for non-skiers?
Absolutely. Even though Wanaka is quieter than Queenstown, it still caters beautifully to non-skiers, making it a well-rounded destination.
• Scenic flights over the Southern Alps and glaciers
• Dog sledding or snowshoeing at Snow Farm
• Lake cruises, hiking and cycling trails
• Cardrona Distillery tours and Otago wine tasting
• Boutique shopping, wellness spas and hot pools
• Iconic Cardrona Hotel for après drinks and history
Our team’s fave winter activities in Wanaka:
Loz: The Cardrona Distillery is located at the base of the drive the Cardrona ski resort, it’s the perfect place to stop for après and amazing food. The baked Camembert lives rent-free in my head. Make the drive to Ayrburn for a meal, the Woolshed had an incredible menu.
Grace: Heliskiing was incredible in Wanaka, there is a great selection of locations in the region, the views are insane and even just the helicopter ride through the mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Jimbob: Wanaka has some really good food! Paloma was really good, Big Fig for hearty food, Kai Whakapai is a local fave and the food trucks were such a great place for a bite, the shredded beef burrito was the best I’ve ever had!
Wanaka FAQs
When is the best time to ski Wanaka?
The season runs late June to early October. July and August offer the most reliable snow, but early and late season can be quieter and more affordable.
Is Wanaka or Queenstown better for skiing?
Wanaka is more laid-back, with direct access to Cardrona and Treble Cone. Queenstown has more nightlife but is busier. Many travellers stay in Wanaka for peace and ski both areas.
Do I need a car in Wanaka?
A car gives flexibility to visit different resorts and explore at your own pace. However, shuttle services run to both Cardrona and Treble Cone from town. Or have the best of both, get a car and then park at the bottom of the mountain and use the free shuttle (20m) to get the top, perfect for those who aren't confident in snow or on windy roads!
How expensive is Wanaka compared to Queenstown?
Wanaka is often slightly cheaper for accommodation and dining, though luxury options are available. Lift passes are priced similarly across the region.
What’s the après ski like in Wanaka?
Après is more low-key than Queenstown but still excellent. Expect cosy wine bars, cocktail lounges with lake views, craft breweries, and the legendary Cardrona Hotel.
Is Wanaka family-friendly?
Yes. Cardrona has some of the best family ski facilities in New Zealand, and Wanaka’s relaxed pace suits families. Self-contained apartments and chalets are popular for kids and groups.
TL; DR – Wanaka
Wanaka is the quieter, boutique alternative to Queenstown with access to some of New Zealand’s best skiing. Stay lakeside or in a luxury lodge, ski Cardrona or Treble Cone with unforgettable alpine views, and enjoy activities for skiers and non-skiers alike. Perfect for Australians wanting a premium, scenic snow escape.
