Lake Wanaka's name is Maori, a corruption of Oanaka ('The Place of Anaka', a local tribal chief). It lies at an altitude of 300m & is estimated to be 300m deep. It was formed, together with the neighbouring Lake Hawea to which it used to be joined, by massive glaciers some 10,000 years ago. The Wanaka township and area is renowned for its epic natural beauty and is a magnet in summer for hikers wishing to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys and irresistible for skiers and boarders in winter, plus the go-to place for thrill-seekers in any season.
Lakes Wanaka and Hawea
Updated: Dec 7, 2023