05 Mar Low Waste Travel: Things to do in Wānaka

With its stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking sunsets, it’s safe to say that Wānaka is a slice of paradise. But beyond the views, there’s an opportunity to explore in a way that respects and preserves this beautiful place. Now this isn’t your typical travel guide. Instead of simply checking off the must-sees, we’ll show you how to experience Wānaka like a local while keeping your impact light. From low-waste adventures to mindful travel tips, this guide will help you create unforgettable memories while protecting Wānaka’s natural beauty.

Looking places to shop, including local markets? Be sure to check out our Waste Free Shopping Guide too!

Top Tips for Low-Waste Travel

From reusable coffee cups to recycling with care, sustainability is just what we do in Wānaka. As you wander around town, you’ll notice that many cafes are 100% SUCfree (single-use cup free) and also welcome BYO (bring your own) food containers, while others offer cup lending schemes and mug libraries. 

When you’re in town, do as the locals do and follow these simple steps:

• Sit in and swap throwaways for a relaxing coffee break.
• Bring your own reusable coffee cup, water bottle and tote bag.
• Borrow from one of the cafe’s cup lending schemes or mug libraries.
• Shop secondhand first.
• Refill your water bottles at one of the town’s many drink fountains.

Low-Impact Things to Do in Wānaka

Looking for ways to enjoy Wānaka without leaving a heavy footprint? Whether you’re seeking adventure or a relaxing escape, these activities let you experience the best of Wānaka with your sustainability hat on.

Outdoor Adventure

• Kayak or Paddleboard to Ruby Island: Pack a picnic and paddle out to this beautiful island in the middle of Lake Wānaka, home to native plants and incredible mountain views. 
• Hiking: From peaceful strolls to challenging summits, Wānaka has no end of hiking trails. For those after a challenge, Isthmus Peak offers a quieter and less trodden path than the more popular Roy’s Peak. For something more gentle, take a stroll along The Upper Clutha River Track or Waterfall Creek Track.
• Snow Farm NZ: Try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or fun tubing adventures at this winter wonderland – Wānaka’s best-kept secret.
• Biking: If you like biking then you’ll appreciate Wānaka’s biking trails including Bike Glendhu, home to a 100% SUCfree cafe.
• Outdoor rock climbing: For avid rock climbers, there are plenty of options. Check out this extensive guide for more info.

Family-friendly activities

• Wānaka Lavender Farm: Meet adorable farm animals, explore the lavender fields, and participate in a fun scavenger hunt. End your visit with a tub of lavender ice cream or a signature scone at the tea room.
• Dino Park: Slide down the famous dinosaur slide while soaking in spectacular views of Lake Wānaka. A must-visit for little ones (and the young at heart!)
• Natural Treasure Hunt: Discover nature’s treasures on a lakefront walk with the kids. Bring a bag and let them fill it with feathers, pine cones, sticks and pebbles ready for a fun crafternoon session.
• Hook Wānaka: Try your hand at fishing and have your catch freshly prepared on site for a “lake to plate” experience. There’s also mini-golf and backyard games to enjoy.
• Staying for a while? Join local family-friendly events like Mini Muscles, Mainly Music, or regular storytelling sessions at the Wānaka Library. If you’re staying longer and in need of some toys for your accommodation, sign-up to the Toy Library for a low-waste, low-cost solution.

Rainy Day Activities

• Cinema Paradiso: Enjoy a movie in this quirky, old-school theatre with unique seating and great food. You’ll also be able to sip your coffee from a real cup while watching a movie! Local tip: Order a hot cookie for the intermission!
• Indoor Climbing: If you’re feeling active, head to Basecamp Wānaka for a fun indoor climbing session that suits all skill levels.
• Saunas: Warm up and unwind with a sauna session. Choose between The Hideaway, Sauna Wānaka or The Secret Sauna in Lake Hawea.
• Yoga Classes: Find your zen with a yoga class at one of Wānaka’s many studios including the serene Dome—perfect for relaxation on rainy days. 
• Shop Secondhand: Forgot your raincoat? Save the planet and your purse and shop secondhand first. With Wastebusters, The Family Store and the Wānaka Hospice Shop, there are plenty of treasures to be found.

Local walks

• Mt Iron Loop Track: Walking up Mt Iron is a popular pastime for locals who often include the walk in their daily fitness regime.
• The Outlet Track: Hop on your bike or enjoy a scenic stroll along the Upper Clutha River. 
• Waterfall Creek: Another local favourite, this track passes the Wānaka Tree and Edgewater (another SUCfree cafe), leading you to a beautiful lakefront setting. You’ll also pass native flora and fauna, with the option to give back to the community by watering the plants.
• Gladstone Track: Head out of Wānaka and discover the mountainous beauty of Lake Hawea on this easy track that takes you all the way to Johns Creek.

Give back

Want to leave Wānaka even better than you found it? Join a local tree-planting day, take part in a beach clean-up, or support eco-friendly initiatives with a donation. Every small action helps protect this paradise for future generations.

•  Plant a tree with Te Kākano: Join Te Kākano in planting native plants around Wānaka’s lakes and rivers.
• Beach clean-ups with Wai Wanaka: From fun, family-friendly beach clean-ups to eye-opening lab sessions, Wai Wānaka offers hands-on ways to take action and learn about the impact of microplastics in our water.
• Other volunteering opportunities: Sticking around for longer? Find other volunteering opportunities in Wānaka through Volunteer South or Love Wānaka. 
• Donate: If you don’t have time to volunteer, another great way to give back is to donate to local non-profits via Love Wānaka. Alternatively, you can support our work directly by clicking here.

Events

Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, Wānaka is home to a range of events. From internationally renowned dance and theatre at the Festival of Colour to adventure inspired books and films at the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival. Embrace the local farming culture at the Wānaka A&P Show or check out the finest flavours of the region at Ripe – The Wanaka Wine & Food Festival. The sustainably minded will appreciate the annual Wao Summit, while sports enthusiasts can follow the endless snowsports competitions at Cardrona Alpine Resort & Treble Cone in winter. All of the events in Wānaka do their best to protect our environment by encouraging visitors to bring their own resuable coffee cups and water bottles. 

Places to Eat in Wānaka

Wānaka’s food scene is packed with local gems that cater to every craving. For wholesome, hearty meals, Big Fig delivers modern Middle Eastern food served fast, while Relishes Café is a go-to for breakfast or a quick coffee. Federal Diner is a great spot for brunch and lunch with locally sourced ingredients and bold flavours. You’ll always find a crowd of locals outside Kai Whakapai, a beloved local institution with great coffee, local beer and even better vibes. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, Bistro Gentil serves French-inspired dishes in a peaceful setting with panoramic views.

For a relaxing afternoon, head to Paddon’s Paddock for wine tasting, cheese boards and live music in a beautiful vineyard setting. Grab one of Wānaka’s famous scones at Edgewater Café, where you can kick back and gaze out at the lake or take part in a backyard game. For light bites, coffee, baguettes, salads and sweet treats, Fedeli is the perfect choice – they even offer a discount when you bring your own coffee cup or container! To find out more about Wānaka’s SUCfree cafes and cup lending schemes, click here. 

Leave Only Footprints, Take Only Memories

Whether you’re sipping coffee from a borrowed mug, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or supporting local sustainability initiatives, every small action counts. By making mindful choices, you’re helping to protect Wānaka’s natural beauty for generations to come.

We hope this guide has inspired you to travel with a lighter footprint and experience Wānaka like a local. 

If you want to find out more about our SUCfree initiative, click here.

Together, we can make a difference.