If there’s one place in New Zealand that makes you want to slow down, breathe deep, and stay just one more night, it’s Wānaka. The lakeside resort we call home sits below the Southern Alps and has that perfect mix of mountain magic and small-town charm – think crystal-clear mornings on the lake, wine by the fire at night, and a daily adventure waiting outside your front door. And to help you choose that door, we’ve cherry-picked the best places to stay in Wānaka next year.
We have all bases covered: whether you’re travelling as a multi-generational group, as a family unit, or it’s just the two of you, whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation, or fancy staying lakeside to max out those waterfront views. To help you rest your head on the right pillow, read on for some true inspiration for the best places to stay in Wānaka in 2026.
Insider tips for your Wānaka holiday in 2026
Beat the crowds by starting your activities first thing so you avoid the midday ‘rush hour’ at popular attractions such as the Wānaka Tree and Roy’s Peak hiking trail. Or book your stay outside the high summer and winter season – spring is a lovely time to visit Wānaka.
Wānaka family accommodation
First up, it’s Wānaka holiday homes for all the family, those crowd-pleasing vacation rentals that allow all of you to kick back and relax.
Must-haves in family holiday homes
Before you click ‘book’, check that the accommodation has the following:
- Enough bedrooms – make this a real holiday by allowing kids who usually share to have their own rooms or those excited to catch up with friends and cousins to hop in a bunk room; ensure there’s a generous suite for you two as well.
- Flexible sleeping options – find out if doubles can be split into twins (no one wants to share a bed with a kicking sibling or cousin!). A sofa bed is a plus for any last-minute relatives who choose to join you.
- Plenty of space – make that indoor and outside too. If you have younger children, check that the outdoor space is secure.
- Spacious kitchen and dining – enhance family mealtimes with plenty of space to cook (or watch the designated chef while you enjoy a glass of wine) and dine.
- Laundry facilities – make sure that favourite t-shirt can be worn more than once and those damp clothes from a day on the lake can be used again later.
- Good entertainment options – think reliable WiFi, board games, DVDs, children’s books… all those essentials for fun nights in or you all need some no-screen chill-time.
Oh-so-lovely to have extras in Wānaka family rentals
And because you’ll want to think of this as a luxury New Zealand holiday, pick a home with some of these too.
- Storage for outdoor gear – a boot room is a great space for drying your equipment (bikes, hiking boots, snowboard, etc.) and keeping it secure.
- Family-friendly location – proximity to restaurants, playparks and easy walking and biking trails makes the holiday easier for everyone.
- Baby stuff – if you need it, a family rental with a cot and highchair frees up space in your car.
Inspo for the perfect family accommodation in Wānaka
Number 3
This place to stay in Wānaka has an open-plan living area, which opens onto the garden, bringing the two spaces seamlessly together. A ground-floor master suite provides privacy for the two adults who want to get away, while the other three bedrooms provide a great family space upstairs.
Best of all? This luxury family holiday home is close to the lake and within walking distance of the town centre.
Ridgecrest
Space for everyone with some fun and entertainment additions too, this villa has so much room as well as panoramic views of Lake Wanaka & New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The ski slopes are on your doorstep (yes, those views), but if you’re renting this Wānaka accommodation outside the snowy season, golf, family activities, and vineyards are just a step away.
Best of all? The hot tub has a front-row seat to those mountain vistas.
View other great options for Wānaka family holiday homes
Insider tips for your Wānaka holiday in 2026
This part of New Zealand has a delicious range of local produce. Buy it from the Wānaka Artisan Market, open every Thursday afternoon, or try at one of the local eateries. Don’t forget a glass or two of local wine, too.
Couples retreats in Wānaka
If it’s just the two of you looking to make the most of this New Zealand resort but you want get away from it all at the same time, you’ll be seeking a couples retreat.
Must-haves in luxury accommodation in Wānaka for two:
- King-size bed – and obviously in a large bedroom with an en suite bathroom.
- Good location – walkable to the bright lights so that both of you can enjoy a drink with dinner, but not so central that you hear noise at night.
- Cosy spots – places you can cuddle up in comfort, such as a balcony nook or soft sofa.
- Luxe extras – those little details that elevate a holiday, such as underfloor heating, an espresso machine, wine fridge, fire pit or quality linens.
Oh-so-lovely to have extras in Wānaka couples retreats
Since this is your holiday, why not treat yourselves to these?
- Stunning views – easy to find in many luxury holiday homes in New Zealand, and especially in Wānaka. Make it extra special and book a place with lake and mountain vistas.
- Private hot tub – well positioned outside so that you can soak and enjoy those views.
- Wood fire or burner – perfect for romantic evenings.
Inspo for the perfect couples retreat in Wānaka
The Banya
The Banya more than delivers on the views because glorious vistas of the lake and mountains are yours at every turn. Yep, even the bed. You’ll also love the squishy beanbags on the terrace and the modern décor throughout. Plus, this is ideal for those seeking a spontaneous romantic break – it only takes bookings within 30 days of your desired arrival date.
Best of all? The private grounds include that must-have luxe touch of a hot tub.
Mantells
Mantells is an architecturally designed hideaway packed with high-end details – think terrazzo floors, bathroom with light show and projection TV. It has space in spades – even the second bathroom is more than generous. It’s also more than generous on the artwork front.
Best of all? This Wānaka luxury accommodation comes with a signature mural feature wall and panoramic lake views.
View more couples retreats in Wānaka
Lakefront villas
The lake is one of Wānaka’s prime features, and if water is your thing, treat yourself to a stay in a lakeside villa or apartment with endless views of it.
Must-haves in lakefront villas in Wānaka
Apart from plenty of indoor and outdoor space, cutting-edge architecture and a privileged waterfront position (all our lakeside villas tick these three boxes), you’ll also want:
- Direct access to the lake – make the most of all that lovely water with your own access to swim or just mess about in the shallows.
- Lake views everywhere – enjoy the vistas from the whole house so that you can feast your eyes on the colours and textures of the lake throughout the day and night.
- Location – choose a holiday rental within easy reach of Wānaka town for convenience, because you won’t want to be away from those views for long.
Oh-so-lovely to have extras in lakefront villas in Wānaka
By definition, a lakefront villa already has the edge. Still, you might want to go next level and pick a property with these:
- Spa pool or sauna – or even both, because let’s face it, Lake Wānaka waters aren’t always as warm as one might desire.
- Direct access to the lake track – super handy for hiking and biking trails from your doorstep.
Inspo for Wānaka lakefront villas
We have several candidates to choose from, but to whet your appetite, here are two of the jewels in the crown.
Penrith Point
Everything about this Lake Wānaka villa, Penrith Point, is magnificent. From the lake views to the modern architecture via the elevated gardens and uber-spacious interiors. You’ll enjoy private access to the lake and your own spa pool.
Best of all? Those views are visible from every one of the four bedrooms.
Roys Peak Farmhouse
Roys Peak Farmhouse has a sleekly austere exterior that sits quietly against an extraordinary natural backdrop of mountains and lake, showcased throughout the property. Chic, relaxed luxury inside ensures comfort and cosiness at any time of year.
Best of all? The spa pool and sauna which is slightly elevated to ensure maximum vistas.
See other lakefront villas in Wānaka
Insider tips for your Wānaka holiday in 2026
Whilst Roy’s Peak is stunning, it’s not so much fun with dozens of other hikers ahead and behind you. To avoid the crowds in high season, choose hiking trails off the well-trodden path – be inspired by these – or visit in spring or autumn when it’s equally stunning but less crowded.
Large group holiday rentals
Whether you’re getting all the family together for a holiday, organising a reunion for a group of old friends or celebrating a special birthday or anniversary with your nearest and dearest, you’ll need large vacation rental. Luckily, that’s an easy call for Central Otago accommodation, where a lengthy list of great homes awaits you.
Must-haves in large group rentals in Wānaka
Your list will obviously include:
- Space – ensure there really is plenty of it, so that no-one is under anyone else’s feet during your stay. And check the outdoor provisions too.
- Enough bathrooms – choose a property that has enough to get those shower queues moving.
- Media room or entertainment area – check out alternative living spaces to avoid everyone having to watch the same movie or listen to the same chat.
On-so-lovely to have extras in large group vacation rentals in Wānaka
Memories of the special occasion will be that much richer if the holiday home has some of these:
- Views – grand vistas are easy to find in this part of New Zealand, but having them outside your own window is always a bonus.
- Outside facilities – think al fresco dining furniture, BBQ, sauna, spa pool…
- Location – proximity to activities for all ages gives everyone something to do easily.
Inspo for large group rentals in Wānaka
If you’re searching for accommodation sleeping 10 or more, these stunning properties more than fit the bill.
Wānaka Haven
This is a spectacular group holiday rental with pool that provides ample space inside and out for gathering together or hiding away to read that book. Sleeping up to 16 guests it has stunning mountain views, multiple living areas and is just a 5-10 minutes’ drive from central Wānaka.
Best of all? There’s a room kitted out as a massage room, plus a peaceful space to practice yoga. Bliss.
Lake Hāwea View
Lake Hawea View sleeps up to 14. This stunning villa sits in its own 25 acres above Lake Hāwea, guaranteeing spectacular water and mountain vistas. The property splits into two fully-equipped separate quarters, allowing privacy within the group.
Best of all? The spa pool with views of the lake and mountains mirrored in its waters.
View more large group vacation rentals
Insider tips for your Wānaka holiday in 2026
Give something back to this stunning part of New Zealand and future-proof its beauty by joining with local volunteers and conservationists. From community gardens to beach clean-ups via wetland restoration, there are plenty of ways to give back.
Best luxury lodges in Wānaka
And finally, in our list of the best places to stay in Wānaka next year, it’s the turn of the luxury lodge. An obvious accommodation choice for any mountain resort and an extra special one for Wānaka too.
Must-haves in luxury lodges
Make sure your pick has the following:
- Alpine-vibe – make your stay as authentic as possible in a lodge with Scottish Highland or Swiss Alp touches. Think roaring fires, plaid throws and the odd pair of antlers.
- Mountain views – ensure they’re panoramic and visible from as much of the house as possible.
- Fully-equipped (and some) – choose a property with all the trimmings unless you’re doing a Bear Grylls.
On-so-lovely to have extras in Wānaka luxury lodges
We think the following are all excellent add-ons:
- Remoteness – experience the great New Zealand wilderness up close and personal.
- Private hot tub – perfect for relaxing after a hard day on the slopes or trails.
- Treat yourself touches – such as a private chef, wine cellar, helicopter-only access…
Inspo for luxury lodges
Try these alpine style places to stay for size.
Cedar Lodge is an idyllic get away for everyone and from everything except the Makarora River and Mount Aspiring National Park at this modern lodge. All rooms take in the panoramic views, and the 5-acre private grounds include river access and a 9-hole target golf course.
Best of all? This lodge has a heli-adventure program, whisking you off into deepest Mount Aspiring on truly wild experiences.
If you’re considering a stay at Minaret Station picture a holiday in one of the Southern Alps’ more remote locations (it’s only accessible by helicopter). You’ll find snow-piled slopes or flower-strewn meadows out of every window as well as your own library and wine cellar. Yep, that’s Minaret Station.
Best of all? There’s actually quite a list, but we’re going for the sheepskin carpets.
See more luxury lodges like these
Don’t leave it too late
If Wānaka is on your holiday list for 2026, book your accommodation as soon as possible. Believe us – these luxury holiday homes fly off the shelf and we don’t want you to be disappointed. Grab yours now, or if you need some expert advice on what’s right for you, get in touch.