This is the Wanaka Life

Thanks to long, sunny days and an average temperature of 24°C, summer is the time to enjoy Wanaka’s best outdoor offerings – nearly all accessible from your very own front doorstep.

The nearby lakefront track is a gateway to Wanaka’s extensive networks of paths and trails, ready to be explored on either foot or by bike. Alternatively, make the hike up one of the surrounding mountains for some breathtaking vistas – a different take on the alpine views available from your own window! Or walk down to the lake to enjoy Lake Wanaka’s famous water activities, whether it’s kayaking, paddle boating, stand-up paddle boarding or even sailing.

Summer is also the perfect time to cool down with a dip in the lake – you’ll find one of Wanaka’s top swimming spots just around the corner at Bremner Bay.

But summer adventure doesn’t just mean physical activity. An easy amble into town opens up endless leisurely options. Think long brunches at one of Wanaka’s cafes, enjoying exceptional coffee and lakeside views. Thirst-quenching cold beers at one of Wanaka’s iconic bars and cafes along the lakefront, or a sun-soaked pre-dinner glass of local wine, before hitting up Wanaka’s food truck scene for some food and fun. The short stroll home makes an ideal ending to a perfect day.

For any music lovers lucky enough to be in Wanaka over New Year’s, South Island’s famous three-day music festival Rhythm & Alps is on in full swing in the Cardrona Valley. Take the adventurous option and choose to camp overnight. Or don’t – Bremner Park is just a 20-minute drive or bus ride away.

The autumn sees Wanaka at (arguably) its most beautiful, with the trees turning vivid shades of red, yellow and orange, the snow line creeping down the mountains, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka reflecting the stunning landscape.

Enjoy the view from home (surrounded by your personal display of transforming trees) or enjoy the crisp autumn air with a long hike or gentle cycle through the leaf-strewn trails. Average temperatures hover at around 15°C.

The setting makes the perfect backdrop for Wanaka’s flagship arts event, the Wanaka Festival of Colour, a week-long festival celebrating extraordinary art from both New Zealand and around the world.

Autumn’s harvest season also creates a mecca for foodies, with an abundance of opportunities to explore Wanaka’s gourmet scene. Taste your way through the region’s multiple wineries or drop by the local farmer’s market to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and artisanal products, ready to be whipped up into a gourmet feast in your spacious chef’s kitchen at Bremner Park.

Prefer not cook? Luckily, it’s also the perfect time to indulge at one of Wanaka’s cafes or restaurants, many of which will offer seasonal menus highlighting Wanaka’s best ingredients. All located within walking distance from your front door.

Winter in Wanaka needs little introduction. As the average temperature drops to 10°C, this famous alpine town transforms into a wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts, with three distinct ski areas just a short drive away.

The options include Cardrona Alpine Resort, which features expansive slopes and top-notch facilities suitable for all levels, while Treble Cone provides breathtaking views and challenging terrain perfect for more experienced skiers and snowboarders. If you prefer cross-country skiing, Snow Farm has 55km of scenic trails and alpine huts for longer trips.

However and wherever you spent your days, this iconic alpine town comes to life in the winter, with Wanaka’s vibrant cafes, lively bars, and gourmet restaurants offering the perfect setting to unwind and socialise.

For those looking for a quieter experience, Wanaka has you covered with an itinerary packed with cosy bookshops, charming cinemas, candlelit wine bars and rejuvenating spas.

However you spend your days, your home at Bremner Park will ensure that they start warm and cosy by the window, marvelling at the winter wonderland beyond, and end with a glass of wine or hot drink in hand, relaxing in front of a roaring fire.

As landscape blooms, Wanaka’s options for fun flourish. It is the only season where you could experience the best of all worlds in a single day.

With temperatures warming to a pleasant average of 17°C, Wanaka’s many walks, hikes and bike tracks reopen, revealing incredible views of the lush green alpine landscape. However, spontaneous snow flurries high up in the mountains keep the possibility for spring skiing alive.

Staying in town remains an attractive option, with cherry blossoms and lupins painting the town in hues of pink, purple, and white – perfect for leisurely strolls along Lake Wanaka’s shores. Fishing enthusiasts might like to try their luck in the lake and nearby rivers, with trout and salmon in abundance during the spring, while any keen golfers can enjoy a round or two on Wanaka’s scenic 18-hole course. Casual disc golfers have twice the number of options, with the town boasting two free basketed disc golf courses – both located around the corner from Bremner Park at Eely Point Reserve and Lismore Park.

With so many options, it’s easy to forget that staying home remains an attractive choice. Spend the day indoors enjoying the sight of your dream home draped in colour, or make the most of the mild weather by throwing some fresh-caught trout on the BBQ and putting your outdoor entertaining area to good use.