Continuing the adventure spirit from the Franz Josef Heli-hike, we decided to spare a few days in the beautiful lake town of southern NZ - Wanaka.
Our 15-day itinerary was a good mix of #adventures and relaxing days. We covered 15 lakes, 9 national parks, 5 adventure sports, 5 short tracks (hikes), and 4 one-day tracks. To explore tips and airbnb's where we stayed, please click NZ planning blog.
2 days in North Island (Click the link below for each things to do in each area)
12 days in South Island
Day 6-7 : How to spend 2 days in Wanaka? -- Read Below
Day 8-9 : Undertake the adventures at Mount Cook & Queenstown -- Coming soon
Day 10-11-12 : Southland- Milford, Te Anau -- Coming soon
Due to the weather fluctuations, we had spared 2 days in Wanaka. One day for Wanaka hikes and other to explore few more adventure sports. Although we did not plan ahead on which adventure sports we wanted to undertake, there were several options available from sky diving to parasailing; canyoning to paragliding. I would recommend not to make pre-reservations (if you are travelling off season between Feb - April) as the weather plays a major role in these activities. Even the slightest of wind/water difference might make the guides call off the activity. We booked 2 hours ago our intended time and paid a few dollars extra but at least were able to take an adventure. If you are traveling during the peak season (Oct - Jan) you will need to pre-book your adventures well ahead of time.
That Wanaka Tree: Known as the lone tree in Wanaka, this is the most photographed tree in New Zealand. The tree is at the foothills of Aspiring National Park, just a mile away from the main town of Wanaka. Although this is the most photographed location, one can certainly skip this spot if you don't have enough time in Wanaka.
We had an amazing Indian dinner overlooking the Lake Wanaka at Bombay Palace.
Day 6: Wanaka Adventures
Due to the weather fluctuations, we had spared 2 days in Wanaka. One day for Wanaka hikes and other to explore the adventure sports. Although we did not plan ahead on which adventure sports we wanted to undertake, there were several options available from sky diving to parasailing; canyoning to paragliding. I would recommend not to make pre-reservations (if you are travelling off season between Feb - April) as the weather plays a major role in these activities. Even the slightest of wind/water difference might make the guides call off the activity. We booked 2 hours ago our intended time and paid a few dollars extra but at least were able to take an adventure. If you are traveling during the peak season (Oct - Jan) you will need to pre-book your adventures well ahead of time.
My husband decided the climb the twin river waterfall via ferrata while I was on my way to glide in the air. Here are our experiences for each of the adventures. We decided to capture the aerial views of Lake Wanaka from a considerable height via these activities. Starting our day at 10 am, we both reached the Wanaka visiting center where my husband had to check-in for the ferrata tour. I drove directly to the treble cone to check-in for paragliding.
Paragliding over Lake Wanaka:
I booked my tandem paraglide spot with Wanaka Paragliding company for a 12 pm reservation. I reached a bit early so I could gear up and prepare myself for the dive (this time jump from the mountain in the air). The guides were very helpful in preparing with the prerequisites on the ride. Along with my guide, we drove up 15-20 mins to the summit of the mountain.
We walked down a few steps, then got tied to the glide with my guide and within no time started running down the mountain directly in the air! I was mesmerized by the aerial view of Aspiring national park on the left, Roys peak on the right and Lake Wanaka straight ahead. Since my husband was doing the Ferrata climb on twin river waterfall, my guide took drove the glide towards the waterfall to see if I could capture my husband's climb (well, they looked like tiny creatures from the sky above). The guide also engaged in some aerobics and twirls with my glide which was thrilling! The 30-minute air ride is a memorable experience with a view of Lake Wanaka that I would always dream of!
Canyoning Via Ferrata:
Conquer the worlds’ highest climb to a waterfall via Ferrata. Via ferrata comes from the Italian, vie ferrate, or ‘iron road’. A via ferrata is a secure, protected, climbing path, where climbers attach themselves to a cable that is fixed to the rock along the route. Wildwire Wanaka offers an amazing guided experience to climb the twin falls in NZ, which is the highest waterfall climb on the planet!
The climb to the highest point called Lord of the Rungs will cost about 599 NZD per person and approximately 7 hours for this adventure.
We relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the day, peacefully spending hours by the lake and reminiscing our memories thus far!
Rob Roy Glacier Hike:
There are 2 most famous day hikes near Wanaka - Rob Roy and Roys Peak. I ended up doing Roys Glacier hike as it was shorter and less steep. My friend who visited a year later ended up doing Roys Peak and her experiences are coming soon.
We started our day to Rob Roy Track post a nice brunch at Lake Wanaka. It is located in the Matukituki Valley area and Mount Aspiring National Park in the Otago region. It offers dramatic views of alpine landscapes, sheer cliffs, several bridges and finally the hanging Rob Roy glacier. It is a 10 km (3-4 hr) return hike via the same route.
Parking for the track: Raspberry Flat Car Park
Additional Details on the Track: Rob Roy Track
Hot Pool Stargazing at Lake Tekapo: A perfect combination of relaxation and exploration under the starry skies only in New Zealand at Lake Tekapo. Experience an hour of learning the history of stars from the International Dark Sky Reserve and then soak in the hot water pools while gazing at the milky way and listening to wonderful star stories. The tour operates from the renowned facilities of Tekapo Springs. It is important to check the weather for clouds as well as rain forecast. The Tekapo Star Gazing tour costs approximately 149 NZD and operates from 9 to 11:30 pm.
Prior to the tour, do enjoy a few mins near the base of Lake Tekapo to enjoy the garden of Lupins as well as Church of the Good Shepherd.
Roys Peak Track - Coming Soon!
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