Wānaka is a fantastic destination for a family summer holiday, with plenty of activities to suit all ages. This vacation spot has the perfect mix of adventure, nature and relaxation, meaning there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, a wide range of holiday accommodation and local eateries cater for kids, making a family summer holiday in Wānaka one you’ll all remember.
Creating family memories in New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region
If you’re thinking of taking your family holiday in Wānaka this summer, read on to discover how to make it a success for young and old. Our guide includes all the best outdoor activities, some perfect attractions (indoor and out), ideas for scenic road trips and recommendations for the best places to eat and stay in Wānaka. Plus, our top tips to ensure those memories are the good ones!
Read our ultimate guide to Wānaka
Best outdoor activities for a family summer holiday
Wānaka and its great outdoors couldn’t be more family-friendly. Local activity businesses welcome kids with open arms and provide all the gear and lessons they need to get started. Whether they’re hiking, biking, swimming or climbing, you and the children will be well equipped for all the adventures around the corner!
Messing about on the water
All that water in Wānaka Lake is there for a reason, especially in the summer. Enjoy swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding – set yourselves a challenge and see if you can paddle or row out to Wānaka Tree. And for those looking for something a little less sedate, join a Lakeland Jet Ski Tour (kids over 8 only) or try your feet at aqua biking!
Swimming for kids
No family summer holiday in Wānaka would be complete without some time in the water. The lake is the obvious starting point. Try Bremner Bay, where shallow waters are perfect for small children or those getting their water wings. More confident swimmers will love Roy’s Bay with its diving pontoon.
Hiking with the kids
Wānaka has walking trails for any size hiking boots. Little ones or those who aren’t big fans of a trek will enjoy Eely Point Track. This gentle lakeside walk is perfect for young kids, especially if you pack a picnic and turn it into a half-day adventure. For those with slightly older children and up for more of a challenge, the Mount Iron Track is a local favourite with fantastic views.
Biking for youngsters
Rent bikes and explore trails like the Waterfall Creek Track, which is flat and family-friendly. Or there’s the Outlet Track that runs by the Clutha River, which is a little more challenging. There’s also a junior bike park located at Eely Point, featuring natural stone jumps & raised wooden boardwalks. Or head for Bike Glendhu with its cycling challenges for all ages and an optional shuttle ride up the hill to keep the enthusiasm up! The youngest kids will love the Base 334, while older and more confident riders can get their adrenaline rush on the Jairolla, the ideal introduction to mountain biking in Wānaka.
Discover more of our tailor-made family experiences
Family Attractions in Wānaka
Even the sportiest kids need time out from the trails and water, and you’ll all welcome something less active. Wānaka has plenty to offer here too, with a great choice of attractions for all the family, indoors and out. What about…?
Cardrona Alpine Resort
OK, so you won’t be skiing on your Wānaka family summer holiday, but don’t let that stop you all from heading to the slopes. At Cardona Alpine Resort, you can bump along the mountain carting trails or enjoy being up high in the mountains. Do check out the events calendar while you’re there.
Cinema Paradiso
Catch a family movie, including the latest blockbusters, in this quirky cinema with couches. Enjoy freshly baked cookies during the interval.
Lake cruise
Take a scenic boat ride heading to Mou Waho Island, where you can discover a lake within a lake. Keep your eyes wide open while you’re there to spot the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920).
National Transport & Toy Museum
Over 100,000 vintage vehicles and old-fashioned toys await you at this hands-on museum. Your kids will love boarding the buses and planes, and seeing what Granny and Grandpop played with back in the day.
Puzzling World
Challenge all your minds at the illusion rooms, the Leaning Tower of Wānaka and a 3D maze in this truly Puzzling World. A fun spot for a rainy morning or afternoon.
Wānaka Lavender Farm
Make the most of a summer holiday in Wānaka to discover a Provence-style lavender farm, where the scents are blooming marvellous at the height of summer. And once you’ve had your fill of the lovely lavender, visit the cute farm animals, play giant outdoor games and feast on a picnic in one of the delightful spots.
If you’re visiting in winter, read our suggestions for a great family holiday in Wānaka
Free things to do in Wānaka for families
We know attraction fees can be expensive, even with family deals. If you like a freebie, try these:
Disc golf – a 9 or 18-hole round, but with a Frisbee rather than a club and ball. Check out this only-in-New-Zealand sport here
Wānaka playgrounds – the town has several, including Dinosaur Park on the waterfront
Wānaka Skate Park – even if your kids haven’t packed their boards, you’ll all enjoy watching local talent do their thing at this park
Wānaka trails – obviously, the walking and hiking options are free. And that goes for the gorgeous scenery everywhere you look as well!
Day Trips from Wānaka
There’s no reason to stick to just Wānaka on your summer holiday – open your horizons and get out and about the wider (and wilder) beyond. Here are some suggestions:
Lake Hāwea
A short drive from Wānaka, this lake is quieter but equally stunning, perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure sports such as kite surfing and paragliding. Don’t want to drive? Walk or ride the Hāwea River Track from Wānaka.
Mount Inspiring National Park
Discover why this magnificent scenery is the stuff of legends. Explore the glaciers, waterfalls, verdant forests and peaks as you walk, canyon, fly or jet boat.
Eating in Wānaka with kids
One of the best things about this season in Wānaka is the al fresco dining. Even better, lots of restaurants in town have outdoor eating spaces and welcome families. Our top spots for a meal out with the kids include:
Amigos
All the Mexican food you can think of is on the menu at this family-friendly restaurant in Wānaka. Whether it’s tacos, burritos, fajitas, guac or topotos, the fresh flavours will be a hit with everyone. Check out the menu
The Albie Tavern
This is one of Wānaka’s top family-friendly restaurants, with fun and grub for everyone. Eat outdoors or in while you all tuck into burgers, blue cod or St Louis ribs.
Food trucks galore
The local food truck culture will appeal to young and old alike, especially the caravans in pretty settings. Our dedicated guide to Wānaka food trucks has all the information.
Where to stay with the kids on a summer holiday in Wānaka
There are a ton of family-friendly holiday lets and Wānaka family hotels. But before you dive into the properties themselves, run through this checklist of must-haves:
- Location, location, location – near enough to restaurants and playparks. Being within easy walking distance is even better.
- Plenty of space – aka enough bedrooms, a secure outdoor garden and somewhere for the kids to play when it rains.
- Washing and drying facilities – because you will all get wet and the kids will get dirty time and time again.
- Room to cook and eat – sufficient prep space in the kitchen and enough dining room for you all to eat.
- Baby equipment – a cot and highchair are handy for the littlest ones.
Find the best places to stay in Wānaka in 2026
Top tips for a family summer holiday in Wānaka
Plan ahead as far as possible: book family-friendly accommodation and look at Wānaka activity deals in advance. Not only will you enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing it’s all in the bag, but you’ll save money as well.
The township has a year-round events calendar, with lots of things to do for kids. While you’re on holiday, check out what’s on in Wānaka today via the official tourist website or through flyers at venues in town.
Keep those munchies at bay and sugar levels where they need to be by packing a selection of quick snacks for the kids. Chocolate and nut combos usually do the trick. Or you can stop at one of the Wānaka food trucks on your way to or from your adventure.
Pack for all kinds of weather (don’t forget this is New Zealand!). Even in high summer, conditions can and do change quickly. And bring plenty of sunscreen and sun hats – use both even on cloudy days. Discover the best time to visit
Book Wānaka family accommodation with a garden BBQ to make the most of the balmy evening temperatures, perfect for outdoor dining.
Book your perfect family holiday in Wānaka
Whatever the season, Wānaka makes the ideal spot for a holiday with all the family. And our holiday rentals put the cherry on the perfect vacation cake – be inspired here or contact our friendly team. They’re based locally and know everything and anything about Wānaka, so their advice is second to none!