Pure mountain air, crisp sunny days and breathtaking vistas.

Wanaka New Zealand is one of the most picturesque, tranquil places on earth and a great destination for a ski holiday. Nestled along the shores of Lake Wanaka, views abound across the lake to Mt Aspiring, the Matterhorn of New Zealand. When you gaze across the lake on a still day, you would swear you are seeing double as you take in the reflections on the water.

From Wanaka it is only a 30 minute drive to Treble Cone, one of New Zealand's best ski resorts. Cardrona ski resort, Snow farm (a Nordic ski resort), and Snow park (a park for free styling shredders) are about 35km away from Wanaka.

Wanaka is also home to one of New Zealand's hottest heli skiing and heli boarding operations – Harris Mountains Heli-ski.

Whilst Wanaka is much more understated than the crazy Queenstown, there are still various Wanaka activities on offer. The Wanaka area has a few adventure pursuits as well as lots of R and R activities such as day spas, wineries, or a cruise on Lake Wanaka. The town has a plethora of cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants to suit all entertainment tastes. Wanaka shopping is also pretty good, especially if you're in the market for a new ski or snowboard outfit.

Wanaka is a place of contradictions and finds the perfect balance between being low-key and up-market. The architecture is modern and stylish, as are some of the trendy people that grace the caffe latte establishments. However Wanaka also has a grungy scene. Wanaka doesn't have the tourist hype seen in Queenstown, and even though tourism is increasing, Wanaka still manages to retain the feel of a relaxed ski town.

For skiers and snowboarders, the huge plus is the choice of multiple ski resorts. And powder hounds love to stay in Wanaka because it's the best location to access the infamous Treble Cone.

The Resorts

Lake Wanaka boasts the world-class ski areas of Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone.