Towering, rugged mountains dusted with snow, framing a sky so blue it looked like something out of a dream. This is what greeted me when I landed at Queenstown airport. The journey from there to Wānaka, just an hour’s drive away, was as smooth as could be. I turned up the radio in my trusty little rental car and took in the stunning landscapes that rolled by.
I booked my entire trip through Booking.com, which I soon realised was like a one-stop shop for everything. From flights to accommodation, it made the whole process so easy and stress-free. It also meant I had everything in one app so I didn’t have to sift through emails or various places to find everything over my weekend.
Wānaka is one of those places where everywhere you look feels like a postcard. As I drove into town, I could already tell I loved the place! And with autumn in full swing the town was flooded in golden hues and deep reds – the perfect time to visit.
Adventure awaits
One of the most thrilling parts of my Wānaka adventure was tackling the WildWire waterfall climb at the Twin Peaks Waterfalls. The climb follows the Via Ferrata method, which is an Italian term meaning “iron path.” This style of climbing involves attaching yourself to a fixed cable that runs along the rock face, using a series of metal rungs, pegs and ladders to scale the heights. It’s a unique and safe way to explore rugged, mountainous areas that would otherwise be inaccessible without technical climbing experience. The beauty of it is that anyone can try it, even if you’re new to climbing, like myself.
I opted for the level one climb, but there are higher levels if you’re looking for an even bigger challenge. As I ascended, the views got more and more spectacular – there’s something incredible about being so close to the falls too, feeling the spray on your face and watching the landscape unfold beneath you.
It’s a perfect mix of adventure and beauty, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the power of nature. The Via Ferrata is a style of climbing that has been used for centuries, and it’s amazing to experience a piece of that history while standing high above Wānaka’s jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure with an incredible reward, this is definitely one for the books.
Sunset on Lake Wānaka
After some excitement, I hopped on my one-hour boat cruise around Lake Wānaka to unwind. The wind was quite strong, but instead of being a nuisance, it added to the experience. The breeze made the whole thing feel raw and refreshing, and I had a bit of a laugh with some other people on the boat as we struggled against it, trying to stand at the bow to take photos. The views were nothing short of magical, with the colours of the landscape changing as the sun began to set.
Sipping on wine, nibbling on cheese and listening to some classic beats while taking in the serene surroundings made it the perfect way to cap off the day. There was something extraordinary about the way the wind and the wild beauty of the lake and mountains came together – it felt like being part of something bigger than just a simple cruise.
The ultimate challenge
The next morning, I jumped into the frosty waters of the lake for an early morning swim. It was cold – freezing, actually – but also incredibly uplifting. Nothing like starting the day with a little shock to the system before heading to a food truck for a warm breakfast bagel and a steaming hot coffee.
The morning of my skydive in Wānaka was a whirlwind of nerves and excitement. As we ascended to 9,000 feet, I was in awe of the breathtaking scenery unfolding beneath me. From the sky, I could see the mighty Southern Alps stretching out, with Mount Aspiring (Tititea) towering in the distance. I caught a glimpse of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The expansive blue of Lake Wānaka mirrored the sky, and further north, Lake Hawea shimmered in the sunlight, creating a landscape so beautiful it took my breath away – almost as much as the skydive itself!
Aaron, my guide, made me feel so much more at ease throughout the whole experience. He was calm, reassuring and made sure I knew exactly what to expect every step of the way. As he scooted me to the edge of the plane door, I stared down at the vastness below and, from memory, muttered something along the lines of ‘What am I doing!’ – although perhaps in slightly less gentle words. But it was too late. As we leapt into the air, I was fully immersed in the thrill. I took it all in – the surroundings, what it truly felt like to fall from that great height, and the sheer expanse of this beautiful Earth we live on.
After touching down, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of emotion – it was an overwhelming mix of exhilaration and relief. Suddenly, I realised that there’s something very special waiting just on the other side of fear. It was a moment I’ll never forget.
Delicious discoveries
But of course, Wānaka isn’t all about the adrenaline rush – it’s also about the food and drink. One night, I had the pleasure of dining at Bistro Gentil, a delightful restaurant that offered exquisite food and service. If you’re in town, it’s a must-visit. And if you’re in the mood for something more relaxed, Pembroke Wines and Spirits offers not only a great selection of beverages but a cosy atmosphere where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the bottle you’ve just purchased. The owner, Alistair, made it feel even more welcoming, a great spot to meet the locals and build a sense of community.
Wānaka’s unmatched beauty
What really struck me about Wānaka was the sense of community and the fact that it still feels like a small, friendly town. The locals are warm and welcoming, and it’s easy to feel at home. From the lush landscapes to the charming streets, Wānaka has the perfect blend of beauty and authenticity.
Before heading back to Queenstown, I made a quick stop at the famous Cardrona Pub for a pint of Cardrona Ale – how could I not? It’s a true Kiwi institution, steeped in history, and the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Visiting Wānaka is definitely worth the leap – no pun intended. Whether you’re seeking adventure, serenity or just a chance to experience one of New Zealand’s most stunning places, Wānaka has something exceptional to offer. Make it easy on yourself too and book your trip with Booking.com – less time planning and more time to enjoy the magic of your destination.
Photography by Jessica Weale.
