Wānaka is a charming town that delivers unforgettable experiences for you, your partner, and your guests.

The team at Alexandra Kate Creative have created the ideal formula for your wedding week. Choosing one or two activities from each category and spreading that across your wedding week is a way to ensure you get both quality time with your loved ones and deep rest before your big day.

Rest & Relaxation

Wedding planning and travelling to get here means building in time to relax is essential. Wānaka is home to some gorgeous small wellness businesses that will leave you feeling grounded and glowing.

  • Massage Therapy: Treat yourself, or your whole bridal party, to a massage with Alpine Massage. They even offer mobile service so you can bliss out in your accommodation.

  • Secret Sauna: Nestled in the picturesque Lake Hawea, the Secret Sauna is an unforgettable experience. Think wood-fired heat, sweeping alpine views, and a cold lake plunge. These saunas are available for both private hire or shared sessions. Bookings are required.

If you have planned to get any beauty therapy appointments for your big day we recommend getting these 2 or 3 days ahead of your wedding day.

Friends & Family Time

One of the most meaningful parts of a wedding week is quality time with your people and Wānaka offers some incredible ways to connect.

  • Host a Lakeside Picnic: Grab artisan bread, pastries, and coffee from Pembroke Pâtisserie, then set up a picnic by the lake or at Eely Point. Stop in at Pembroke Wines and grab a local Central Otago Pinot Noir for a celebratory touch.

  • Cruise on Lake Wānaka: Charter a private boat and explore the lake’s hidden coves, or take an eco-tour to Mou Waho Island, home to a lake on an island on a lake on an island. 

Visit Hook for a lake to plate experience. Even if salmon fishing, or eating isn’t your thing, Hook provides a beautiful backdrop for a casual gathering. They also have some of the best pizzas around!

Get Outside

Wānaka’s natural beauty makes it easy to soak up the outdoors, from mellow walks to adrenaline-packed thrills.

Walks & Hikes

  • For something short, sharp and scenic, try the Mount Iron Track (great views, doable in 1.5 hours). Please note that this is a short but uphill hike and bring water on a hot day and make sure you apply that SPF. 

  • For a longer, iconic option, Roys Peak Track is a challenging climb but worth every step, this is popular to take in the magical sunrises Wanaka has to offer.

  • Prefer a lakeside stroll? The Millennium Track from Wanaka to Glendhu Bay is a gentle favorite. You can stop in at Edgewater for a meal or coffee too on the way!

If you have an SUV or 4 wheel drive don’t miss the opportunity to head into Mount Aspiring National Park. You will find two of the most iconic day walks here: Mount Aspiring Hut and Rob Roy Glacier. Please check with your rental car company first before driving on this road.

Adventure Options

  • Skydive over Lake Wānaka if you’re chasing the ultimate rush.

  • Take a scenic flight over Mount Aspiring National Park for epic alpine views.

  • Kayak, jetski or paddleboard on the lake. Rentals are available right on the waterfront.

Eat, Drink & Celebrate!

Wānaka punches well above its weight when it comes to food and drink. Think small-batch, locally grown, and beautifully executed.

Eateries

  • Kika – Mediterranean-style small plates, moody atmosphere, and excellent cocktails.

  • Scroggin – A cozy breakfast or brunch spot with sourdough toasties, bowls, and great coffee.

  • Kai Whakapai – A busy local favourite. Open all day for great coffees or a local beer and a bite to eat.

  • Bistro Gentil – A romantic spot for a more formal pre-wedding dinner or celebration.

  • Muttonbird – A NZ dining experience focusing on local and seasonal produce. This restaurant has great retro styling elements and delicious shareable plates.

  • Sofi – Amazing lake views and shared mediterranean plates. Perfect spot for a pomegranate margarita, or, your cocktail of choice!

  • FuDog – A great asian fusion restaurant with a stylish and modern atmosphere. Known for their Japanese, Chinese & Korean influenced dishes!

Local Treats

Indoor Activities

Wānaka is most well known for its outdoor adventure playground. However, we do have some perfect indoor activities. Whether you are entertaining small humans or the weather isn’t co-operating for a day or two.

  • Cinema Paradiso – This boutique cinema is known for their comfortable sofas and intermission cookies. Be sure to pre-purchase a hot cookie at the start of your viewing which can be enjoyed at half-time.

  • Puzzling World – It wouldn’t be right to not recommend Puzzleworld. This is a favourite amongst the little kids, the big kids and the kids at heart. It’s a great way to spend some family time.

  • Crossfire – With claybird shooting, archery, rifle range, driving range and mini golf this is a great way to spend some time. Note that not all activities are indoors.

  • Head 20 minutes down the road to the cosiest spot – Cardrona Hotel. This iconic pub and hotel has great food (with massive portion sizes!) and on a cold or wet day, they often have the fire roaring!

  • Reform Pilates – This pilates studio is a great way to spend some time staying active if the weather isn’t favourable. You can book online or through their app.

Make Space for the Moment

Finally, make sure to leave room in your schedule for what matters most: connecting with your partner, being present, and taking it all in.

Whether it’s a quiet morning coffee by the lake, a spontaneous group dinner, or watching the stars after a long day, these small, unscheduled moments often become the most cherished.

The team at Alexandra Kate Creative can help you build your perfect week itinerary to make sure it covers everything you and your loved ones are looking for. Let us know if you need any local tips & tricks!

Imagery by: Kate Roberge, Mickey Ross, Bring Me Somewhere Nice, Oliver Hartley, Sommar Films