The weather is still kind to the visitor with the hot days quietly making way to the chillier temperatures of winter.

The first frosts of winter help turn the autumn leaves red and gold.

This is a spectacular time of year for photographers who want to make the most of the autumn colours and lake reflections.

Lake Wanaka remains the alpine jewel in an area on the border of Mount Aspiring National Park, a world-class heritage area covering thousands of square hectares stretching from Makarora in the north to South Westland on the West Coast and south to the wilds of Fiordland.

Jet-boat down the Clutha River on one of New Zealand's last natural, untapped rivers spilling out of Lake Wanaka.

In late March the arts come together with the Wanaka Autumn Arts Festival, and the Festival of Colour.

Passionate students learn from professional artists in this week-long school that attracts hundreds of people to share their creativity.

The streetlights come on a little earlier than during the long days of summer, signalling that dining out is on the menu.