If you find yourself with a bit of free time in Wanaka then we highly recommend starting with a stroll along the lakefront. A path leads in either direction from the town but if you head northwards around Beacon Point you can extend your walk along the Clutha River as well. Once you’ve adequately stretched your legs you can further soak up the laid-back Wanaka vibe by enjoying a morning coffee or lunch at one of the many cafés in the town and perhaps a browse of the various boutique shops. There are also many options for enjoying the lake: kayaks and stand up paddle-boards can be rented locally, or you could join one of the lake cruises that depart regularly throughout the day. The area around the lake edge is relatively flat so cycling can be an enjoyable way to have a look around but equally if you fancy more of a challenge there are some excellent mountain bike trails nearby.

The award-winning Puzzling World is one of Wanaka’s main attractions, a five-minute drive from the lakefront, where you will find a weird and wonderful collection of optical illusions, mazes and puzzling rooms that are sure to intrigue and entertain whatever your age. Further afield you could visit the historic Cadrona Hotel, tucked away at the base of the Crown Range and oozing with pure Kiwi charm, it’s a great place to pop in to for a drink or a bite to eat.