Wanaka
stunning landscapes & gourmet delights

• Boat trip on Lake Wanaka and 4WD over a private sheep station for a picnic with a view!
• Jet boat up a remote river and enjoy a forest walk with spectacular glacier and mountain views
• Wine tastings at some of Central Otago’s fabulous wineries
• Catch your own salmon for dinner – an exceptional Lake to Plate experience
• Helicopter flight over stunning Mt Aspiring National Park (optional, but highly recommended!)

21 February

Independent arrival in Wanaka. Meet your guide and fellow travellers over a welcome drink and nibbles this evening before strolling into town for dinner.

22 February

Morning tea at the iconic Florence’s Foodstore, a gourmet’s delight where you can buy products from local artisan producers. Then drive over to Cardrona where you’ll have time to visit The Junction, a wonderful homewares and gift shop, before lunch (own expense) at the historic Cardrona Hotel. Later you’ll visit the Cardrona Distillery where you’ll discover the secrets to Cardrona’s artisan spirits, starting with the water source, malted barley and yeast. You’ll see where the malt is milled, mashed, fermented, distilled and matured before enjoying a tasting of these award-winning whiskies and spirits.

23 February

After breakfast cruise up Lake Wanaka towards the head of Stevenson’s arm with spectacular views of glacier-carved mountains and a constantly changing vista of steep walls and alpine peaks.
Board your 4×4 vehicle on a private sheep station at the foot of Mt. Burke to climb high above the lake. Your view expands until all of Lake Wanaka lays before you in a stunning panorama.

Experience the solitude while you enjoy your morning tea picnic and the best view in Wanaka. Return to Wanaka by 4×4 and boat, or by helicopter (optional).
Optional (and highly recommended!): Your helicopter arrives at your picnic spot high above Lake Wanaka for your 40-minute scenic flight over the deep valleys and glaciated peaks of Mt. Aspiring National Park. A mountain landing gives you the chance to soak it all in with incredible photo opportunities before your return to Wanaka. The ultimate Wanaka experience!

Free afternoon to explore Wanaka’s shops and cafes or stroll along the lakeshore. 

24 February

Central Otago is a wine-making mecca and you’ll visit 4-6 of the region’s finest, little gems that are quietly making a big name for themselves with their dedication and commitment to producing the best possible wine.  Meet the vineyard owners and winemakers to hear first hand how it’s all done and enjoy your Central Otago wine experience. Soak up the atmosphere of the arts, crafts and history of Old Cromwell Town and enjoy a delicious gourmet platter lunch. Return to Wanaka late afternoon.

25 February

This morning you’ll enjoy a spectacular half-day wilderness adventure in the unbeatable scenery of World Heritage Mount Aspiring National Park. Take a jet boat ride up the pristine glacier-fed waters of the Matukituki River, past waterfalls and Lord of the Rings film locations, with views of Mount Aspiring and glaciers. Deep in the mountainous terrain, leave the jet boat for a scenic 50-minute walk into true New Zealand wilderness. This is a trip highlight and an opportunity to experience nature like never before. Walk through ancient beach forests along glacial-fed streams to a waterfall and listen as your local guide shares with you the incredible history of this natural wonderland. 

Return to Wanaka, free afternoon to wander along the lakefront, visit the weekly farmers market and explore this charming small town. 

Later this afternoon you’ll drive out to Hook where you’ll enjoy a unique and exhilarating ‘lake to plate’ fishing experience. Catch your own Chinook salmon from the spring-fed lakes, then relax or explore the beautiful grounds while the kitchen team prepares your catch for dinner. 

26 February

Your Wanaka adventure ends after breakfast. An optional transfer to Queenstown is available on request (must be pre-booked), or join Karen to explore Fiordland!