Lake Wanaka

This is a spectacular time of year to visit Lake Wanaka as autumn brings a flamboyant mix of colours from glowing golds to vibrant reds.

The calm weather conditions allow for a myriad of outdoor adventures. Relaxing walks and bike rides along the Lake Wanaka waterfront or a scenic cruise taking in the autumn colours and pristine lake reflections.

Autumn is a great time to explore the region with a sight-seeing tour or take to the skies for a scenic flight taking in the spectacular splendour of the Lake Wanaka region. This time of year is a photographer’s dream, discover the work of local artists and the thriving arts and crafts culture in Wanaka.

Take in the colours, fresh crisp air and dusky nights of Wanaka as nature prepares for the winter chill. 

The spectacular autumnal colours of Lake Wanaka gave the Festival of Colour its name. The Southern Lakes Festival of Colour is based in the heart of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wanaka. A premiere destination for national and international travellers, Lake Wanaka is centrally located, easy to reach by road and air, and only 1 hour’s drive from Queenstown and approximately 5 hours from Christchurch.

For Wanaka maps and further information visit www.lakewanaka.co.nz.  

Getting here by Car
From Queenstown via Crown Range (SH89) or via SH6 and SH84 into Wanaka.
From Christchurch/West Coast: Travel south and pick up SH6/SH84 as you approach Wanaka

Or by Air

There are daily flights from Christchurch Airport to Wanaka (twice daily 4 times a week). Check out Air New Zealand. Air New Zealand and Jetstar also operate a number of flights daily into Queenstown which is just one hour's drive (by car or bus) from Wanaka over the scenic Crown Range road. The closest international airports to Wanaka are Queenstown (1.2 hours), Dunedin (3.5 hours) and Christchurch (6 hours).

Accommodation
Lake Wanaka has a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. Check out what’s available and book online.

The following providers have kindly sponsored and supported the Festival, please click on the link to contact each provider and make your booking.

Book your accommodation at the Festival Hotel: Wanaka Hotel
T: + 64 (0) 3 443 7826
E: info@wanakahotel.co.nz
W:www.wanakahotel.co.nz

Lakeside Apartments
Luxurious 5-star accommodation just across the road from the festival hub. The perfect place to stay. Phone now to book our Festival of Colour special - stay four nights and only pay for three. 
T: 0800 00 22 11
E: info@lakesidewanaka.co.nz
w: www.lakesidewanaka.co.nz

Wanaka Luxury Apartments
Stylish self-contained full service holiday accommodation - a short stroll from the lake, shops and restaurants
T: + 64 (0)3 443 4943
E: info@wla.co.nz
W: www.wla.co.nz

Book your car hire with Wanaka Rentacar
T: + 64 (0) 3 443 6641
E: sue@wanakarentacar.co.nz
W: www.wanakarentacar.co.nz