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Words by Shannon Bawden.

Shan Bawden is a blogger and photographer who falls harder for Wānaka every time she visits. Here’s her Wānaka ‘must-do’ list for the Spring and Summer.

When I think of a summer roadie, my mind instantly drifts to the lakes and rugged mountaintops that surround the area of Wānaka.

There’s something special about those mountain peaks that continues to draw me back.

Days spent on the lake, ending with sundowners and good people, nothing can top it! I had ten days, bags packed, no plans and a heart racing full of adventure. Excited to explore this epic part of the world, I packed my bags, loaded the car and hit the road. This trip was nothing short of incredible – rock jumping, wakeboarding, mountain hiking, local eating and damn good people!

Here’s what I got up to on my recent roadie through Wānaka and its surrounding area.

In Wānaka

Activity highlights

 

Eat

 

Stay

  • Wanaka Hotel – it’s in the heart of town and there’s tacos right at your doorstep!

 

In Hāwea

Activities 

  • Hiking the Sawyer Burn track
  • Rock jumping into the crystal clear water at ‘The Neck’
  • Sunset at Hawea Esplanade beach
  • Driving the scenic Meads Road along the lake stretch
  • Watching the brave surf the River Wave at the Camphill Bridge

 

Eat

 

Stay

  • The Camp – picturesque lakeside luxe glamping tents nestled beneath the mountains. A hidden gem!

In Mt. Aspiring National Park

Activities

 

Eats

 

Stay

Woman-at-rivers-edge
Waterworks in Mt. Aspiring, photo by Shan Bawden