MileHacker Logo
Nearby Destinations

Nearby Destinations

Queenstown And Wanaka, New Zealand

Transportation Options for Each Destination

A rental car presents the most flexible option for all these destinations, enabling stops wherever you wish.

Intercity bus routes connect Wanaka to Queenstown and Cromwell, a cost-effective travel method.

Travel Methods

  • Rental Car: Freedom to explore at your own pace.
  • Intercity Bus: Budget-friendly connections to major towns.
  • Organized Tours: Transport and guidance included.
  • Motorcycle: Scenic rides for enthusiasts.

Natural Escapes

The area around Wanaka has spectacular natural beauty, ideal for day excursions.

Organized Tour

A hassle-free option with local guide knowledge and transport provided. Check GetYourGuide for available tours.

Considerations

  • Fixed itinerary.
  • Higher cost.
  • Group travel.

Independent Travel Rental Car

You gain complete flexibility and freedom to stop anywhere.

Considerations

  • Self-navigation.
  • Driving and parking requirements.
  • May cost more for solo travelers.

Time Required & Itineraries

Queenstown/Arrowtown

  • Plan for a full day trip.
  • Depart early, explore activities, visit Arrowtown in the afternoon.
  • May feel rushed without an early start.
  • Limited time for all attractions on a tight schedule.

Cromwell/Wineries

  • Dedicate a half to full day.
  • Visit the heritage precinct, explore fruit stalls (seasonal), and enjoy wine tastings.
  • A designated driver or guided wine tour is a good consideration.
  • Fruit stalls are seasonal.

Scenic Landscapes

  • Haast Pass (State Highway 6)Stunning rainforest, waterfalls (Fantail, Thunder Creek), Blue Pools.
  • Glendhu BayIdeal for a relaxed picnic, swimming, and lakeside camping.
  • Mount Aspiring National ParkRob Roy Glacier Track, scenic drives into the park.
  • Lake HaweaScenic drives, walking tracks, and fishing opportunities.
  • Roy's PeakIconic hike with panoramic lake and mountain views.
  • Diamond Lake & Rocky MountainEasier walk with great views of Lake Wanaka and peaks.
  • Isthmus PeakChallenging hike with views of both Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
  • Rob Roy Glacier TrackAccess to a hanging glacier (check road conditions).

Tip for Blue Pools

The Blue Pools are most in summer and autumn when glacial melt is active, creating their intense turquoise color.

Cultural Excursions

Explore historical sites and rural life beyond Wanaka's immediate vicinity.

Cardrona Hotel

A short, worthwhile trip for a glimpse into gold rush history and a meal or drink.

Bannockburn Sluicings

Near Cromwell (approximately 1 hour drive). Explore a historic gold mining landscape with walking trails.

Rural Villages

Explore farmlands and orchards around Cromwell. Stop at fruit stalls for fresh produce (seasonal).

Mount Aspiring National Park

Entry points are approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours drive from Wanaka. Explore trails like Rob Roy Glacier Track.

Activities

  • Hiking scenic trails.
  • Viewing waterfalls.
  • Immersing in rainforest.

Lake Hawea & Beyond

Just 15 minutes north, offering scenic drives and a quieter setting than Lake Wanaka.

Local Spots

  • Scenic drives along the lake.
  • Fishing opportunities.
  • Relaxed nature walks.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Blue PoolsMost in summer and autumn due to glacial melt.
Spring BloomsWitness colorful wildflowers across the landscape.
Autumn FoliageExperience stunning golden hues in Central Otago vineyards.
Winter SnowfallTransforms mountains into a white wonderland.
Lake FishingBest times for trout and salmon vary by season.
BirdwatchingYear-round, with specific migratory birds in spring/autumn.

Local Etiquette

  • Follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Pack out all rubbish from natural areas.
  • Stay on marked tracks to protect native flora.
  • Do not disturb wildlife, including birds and marine life.
  • Protect native plants and trees.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip from Wanaka to explore other parts of the South Island.

West Coast Glaciers

Drive via Haast Pass (approximately 4-5 hours from Wanaka one-way). Spend 1-2 nights to explore the glaciers, rainforest, and coastal areas.

Highlights

  • Franz Josef/Fox Glacier exploration.
  • Lush rainforest walks.
  • Unique coastal scenery.

Fiordland National Park

Drive to Te Anau (approximately 2.5 hours from Wanaka) and stay overnight. From Te Anau, it is another 2 hours to Milford Sound for a cruise.

Highlights

  • Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound cruises.
  • Majestic fiords and waterfalls.
  • Wildlife spotting (seals, dolphins, penguins).

Logical Next Destinations

Explore other regions once your Wanaka adventures conclude.

Post-Wanaka Options

  • Queenstown (for more adventure activities).
  • Franz Josef or Fox Glacier (for ice hiking or heli-hikes).
  • Te Anau or Milford Sound (for fiord cruises).

Transportation Connections

A rental car typically presents the best option for these multi-day extensions, offering flexibility.

Travel Methods

  • Rental car offers great flexibility.
  • Intercity buses connect to Te Anau and the West Coast.
  • Organized multi-day tours from Wanaka or Queenstown are also available.

Suggested Routes for Longer Regional Travel

Southern Scenic Route

From Wanaka, head south to Queenstown, then Te Anau, Milford Sound, and onto the Catlins and Dunedin for a comprehensive exploration.

West Coast Loop

Wanaka to Haast Pass, past glaciers (Franz Josef/Fox), through Punakaiki, and on to Christchurch.

Central North Island

Consider flying to Rotorua or Taupo from Queenstown for geothermal sights and Māori cultural experiences.

Planning Longer Trips

A rental car typically provides the most flexibility for multi-day extensions across the South Island, allowing for spontaneous stops and exploration.
← Previous
Activities & Experiences
← Back to Wanaka
Next →
Communication

Next Up: Communication

Continue to Communication