What's New in Wānaka in 2022

Our local businesses have been busy launching, revamping and expanding their offerings.

If it’s been over a year in between visits to Wānaka, or if you’ve never been before then it’s probably about time to check out all the new places and new looks that have popped up thanks to a bunch of creative entrepreneurs.

Food and drink

Food wise Wānaka is well-known for some very special iconic dining experiences including Kika and Bistro Gentil. New kid on the block is Paloma Taqueria adding some Mexican flair and flavours to the Wānaka dining scene in a contemporary inviting space that is located in The Precinct. Tortillas made from scratch, tostadas, slow cooked meats and churros. Did we mention it’s best to arrive with a healthy appetite!

If you find yourself wandering the streets of Wānaka and in need of caffeine on a weekday, pop into the new Good Spot coffee-window for an organic Venus brew, served up with their renowned cheese scone. This hole in the wall cafe boasts style, vibe and community connection.

Into brunch? Then Arc is the place for you. From 9am until 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays you can dine in for some wildly delicious and unique dishes, think fresh crayfish and salt cod eggs benedict, served with an optional Bloody Mary. If you’re after something after dark, Wednesday to Sunday they operate as a sharing tapas-style cocktail bar from 5pm until late.

People sitting in a cafe eating breakfast

Shopping and beauty

Peruse the streets and you’ll now find Nicola Screens’ new store in The Precinct, which features collections designed to embrace the sustainable and ethical process of a traditional atelier. Also located in The Precinct is Alice Heralds’ gorgeous new jewellery studio, where you’ll find on display her bold yet elegant, fine jewels that would be equally at home on the high streets of London, Paris or NYC!

After some TLC? Head to Ilu Hub, for a sustainable and holistic approach to beauty and self-care. Choose from a selection of natural and organic beauty treatments, a massage or a combination of both.

If you are a bike fanatic, then you need to check out Bike It Now located in Three Parks for all of your rental and touring needs. While Outside Sports is now located in Wānaka’s CBD for all of your retail, rentals and workshop services. The Greenroom Flower Co and Plant Collective have also set up shop, pushing boundaries with their bold and daring new pastel-painted studio of wild blooms, dried flowers and lush plant greenery at their new Three Parks boutique.

Accommodation

Here for a good time and a long time? The Bothy offer affordable short term and long-term dormitory style rooms and are now conveniently located just above Charlie Brown Crepes and The Coffee Shack in downtown Wānaka.

If you are looking for something on the luxe side, then you must book (at least!) a weekend’s stay at The Hide on Lake Hāwea Station. The accommodation is situated on New Zealand’s first Carbon Positive Farm, with expansive views overlooking Lake Hāwea and also offers backcountry 4WD access and mountain biking trails.

Luxury accommodation nestled in the mountains

To stay in the know of up-and-coming events over Spring and Summer, head to our What’s On page or better yet sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of the page.

What’s New in Wānaka in 2022

Food and drink

Shopping and beauty

Accommodation

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