A must-do for every traveler would have to be a visit to the Central Otago. So where do you stay in Central Otago – Queenstown or Wanaka? If this is a decision that you are finding hard to make, just remember this: the distance between Wanaka and Queenstown is only about 67 km (40 miles). In fact, you only need to drive for 1 hour along Cardrona Road. Both Queenstown and Wanaka, offer a different experience to each other. Knowing this will come in really handy. In fact, it will influence your decision as to where to book your accommodation on Search and Stay!
Best Places to stay in Wanaka
If you are travelling via the West Coast, then you will reach Wanaka first. The bustling Wanaka village is located beside a pristine lake, which is called Lake Wanaka. The rolling tussock grass hills give a sense of space and it has a very relaxing vibe. For many New Zealanders, Wanaka is a prime holiday destination. This is especially the case when they head down south for their holidays – that is why so many Kiwis rent a holiday home in Wanaka on Search and Stay. Check out the Tourism Wanaka website for more details on the location.
What to do in Wanaka?
Wanaka is not just about a beautiful lake and famous water sports. Wanaka also lends itself to a wide range of walks and mountain biking. With all these activities, you will find one to suit your fitness level. For example, hiring E-bikes throughout New Zealand, is big business. But find the right holiday rental in Wanaka on Search and Stay and you can take leisurely daily walks along the lake’s shoreline.
And if hiking is your passion, why not take a hike in the nearby Mt. Aspiring National Park. For your relaxation and pure indulgence, there are other lifestyle choices. These don’t have to include strenuous exercise, such as lovely food and wine tours.
Spend a day visiting the region’s boutique vineyards. In fact, I’d go as far to say that this is a must-do experience. Not only are the wines of a premium world-class standard, but the vineyards are located in very scenic areas, and take some of New Zealand's best back to your Wanaka holiday accommodation booked through Search and Stay!
Generally though, a stay in Wanaka is probably going to appeal more to nature lovers. And let’s face it, if you stay here, you won’t have to cope with the number of visitors you’ll get in busy Queenstown.
Our top 5 Wanaka activities and attractions
Wanaka River Journeys
Like a lot of river tours in New Zealand, you will get more than just a boat trip. Wanaka River Journeys tours do give you an incredible variety in just one package. For example, one of their tours includes a jet boat ride, a beautiful wilderness walk and a 4WD farm safari.
Eco Wanaka Tours
This tour is pretty special and great for families. You will get to see a beautiful predator-free island that can only be accessed by jet boat. Eco Wanaka Tours specializes in Mou Waho Island Tours. This will take the form of an uphill walk, with plenty of stops on the way. And your walk is totally worth the effort if you get to see all this with your knowledgeable guide:
You’ll also gain an insight into the ecosystem of Mou Waho Island – it is quite fascinating. Plus, you’ll get to meet those cheeky wekas – just make sure you don’t leave your lunch lying around!
Roy Rob Day Hike into Mt. Aspiring National Park
This Rob Roy hiking tour will require some effort on your part. There will be areas that some of you may find quite steep. But with a reasonable level of fitness, it will be worth your energy. Because what you will see on the way, will absolutely enthrall you. In fact, this photo says it all. Don’t worry about running out of ‘puff’. You will have plenty of stops along the way. I can tell you from personal experience, the glacier at the top of your walk, will take your breath away.
Rob Roy Glacier tour with Guide
Alpine Lakes Heli Hike
The Alpine Lakes Heli-Hike is an unforgettable adventure. This tour will take you into the very heart of New Zealand’s beautiful World Heritage Conservation area bordering. The scenery you will witness is so dramatic – an awesome close-up encounter with the Southern Alps.
Initially, your guide with drive you up to the Matukituki River Valley. From here, you get to board a helicopter. During your flight, you will see three pristine alpine lakes. The next part of the tour involves a 2 hour scenic hike – this walk will take you through alpine tussock herb fields and long spectacular ridges. At the end of your hike, you’ll fly by helicopter to a secret mountain top location – absolutely perfect for photos. At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to your accommodation.
Food and Wine Tours
If you choose to go on a Wanaka Food and Wine tour you’ll get some great options. All these options are geared towards your convenience and how much time you have. For example, if you are time-short, you can do a mini-tour. This option will involve a small collection of wineries and will take about 2 hours.
For something more in-depth, a boutique winery tour would be your best option. You will pay a bit more, but what could be more special than meeting the actual wine-makers! On the boutique tours, a gourmet lunch is served up to you along with a wine of your choice. With all these options, you will discover so much of Central Otago’s scenic beauty.
Best Places to stay in Queenstown
Queenstown is considered the tourism playground of New Zealand – you will have so many adventures to choose from. The thing to remember is that Queenstown is only a 50 minute drive from Wanaka. And like Wanaka, Queenstown is also located on a beautiful lake – Lake Wakatipu. Visit Search and Stay for holiday accommodation on Lake Wakatipu
What to do in Queenstown?
Of course, there is more to Queenstown than the awesome Remarkable Mountain Range, lake and vineyards. A big key attraction is action and outdoor tours. Plus you can enjoy the very best in dining and shopping. The small village at beautiful Glenorchy is not far away either! Many of the most adrenaline-based attractions have been created right here in Queenstown. Bungy Jumping, exhilarating jet-boat rides plus Whitewater Rafting – these are just a few from the list – hey here’s another one! Also, check out the Queenstown Tourism site.
Other highlights like the Routeburn Track and Lord of the Rings film locations are nearby. Many travelers stay at least 2-3 nights to discover the region properly. Queenstown has a buzz and a very active nightlife!
Our top 5 Queenstown attractions and activities
Private Discovery Tours
A Tour Company like Private Discovery Tours specializes in small groups or with exclusive private tours. They tend to focus on getting off the beaten track – going to places that only they have access to. Depending on your interest, they offer a number of options for you. The beauty of this level of service is that all these options can be tailored to your interests.
Dart River Safaris
If you are based in or around Queenstown, you really should consider a Dart River Safaris tour. By choosing this company, you will definitely get value for your money. What you will get is a unique combo of 3 different experiences. Firstly, you can enjoy a scenic bus tour through Lord Of The Rings film locations on your way to beautiful Glenorchy. At Glenorchy, you will board a jet boat for a thrilling ride up the Dart River. After that, you will get to stretch your legs by taking a lovely short nature walk.
Dart River jet-boating from Queenstown
Shotover River White Water Rafting
The Shotover River White Water Rafting really make this fun for their customers. It begins with an unforgettable coach trip through Skippers Canyon – many exciting cliff edges to negotiate. You will already have had an adrenaline rush before you hit the water! After that, you will get to experience firsthand, grade 3-5 whitewater rapids in one of the most scenic environments in the world.
Fly-Cruise-Fly to Milford Sound
How does flying above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago sound to you? Fly-Cruise-Fly to Milford Sound really is a great combo if you are short of time. From the air, you can observe glacial-fed rivers and Lake Wakatipu. Plus you will witness two awesome National Parks; Mt Aspiring and the world heritage listed Fiordland National Park. Also included in this wonderful combo, is cruising an entire fiord out to the Tasman Sea. Complete the tour with a flight over the Southern Alps back to Queenstown. All in all, quite a unique and captivating view from the air.
So, Where do you stay in Queenstown or Wanaka?
So where do you book your holiday accommodation on Search and Stay in Queenstown or Wanaka? If you’re looking for action, nightlife and some key icons of New Zealand, then visit Search and Stay for holiday rentals in Queenstown.
But if you want a more casual, nature-focused holiday, then a Wanaka holiday house can also be found on Search and Stay. Remember, the drive via Cardrona, provides a stunning scenic connection between these two southern gems!
Source: GuestNewZealand.com