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Wanaka Ski Resort Review

Wertu ski expert
May 19, 2024

Wanaka, with its pristine lakeside location, offers a unique blend of laid-back charm and adrenaline-fueled activities, boasting some of the best heli-skiing opportunities and a variety of terrain for all levels, making it a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Wanaka overview

Stats

3.2
/5
Rating
290
m
Resort height
1960
m
Summit

KM of slopes

13
Beginners
29
Intermediates
13
Experts
62
Total

Best for

Fun
Off-piestes
Couples
2500

Wanaka for beginners

Beginners rating -
13
Perfect
The resort offers a variety of gentle slopes such as the "Meadows" and "Home Basin" which are perfect for beginners to practice their turns and build confidence. The "Magic Carpet" and "Platter" lifts provide easy access to these beginner-friendly areas, making the resort a haven for novice skiers.

Wanaka for intermediates

Intermediates rating -
Perfect
The resort offers a variety of blue and red runs, perfect for intermediate skiers looking to challenge themselves. The Cadrona and Treble Cone areas, accessible via the Whitestar and Captain's Express lifts, provide a mix of groomed trails and off-piste opportunities. The resort's Snow Park, with its array of jumps and rails, also offers a great playground for those looking to improve their freestyle skills.

Wanaka for advanced

Advanced skiers rating -
Perfect
The resort's Black Diamond runs, such as the Motatapu Chutes, offer a thrilling challenge for advanced skiers with their steep, ungroomed terrain and natural obstacles. The high-speed quad chairlift, the Summit Express, provides quick access to these exhilarating slopes, making it a paradise for adrenaline-seeking ski enthusiasts.

Wanaka for snowboarders

Snowboarders rating -
Fun
Perfect
The resort offers a paradise for snowboarders with its diverse terrain, including the steep chutes of Black Peak and the wide, groomed runs of Treble Cone. The Cardrona Alpine Resort, with its modern high-speed chairlifts and dedicated freestyle areas, is a haven for those looking to perfect their tricks. The Snow Park, with its half-pipes and rails, is a must-visit for any snowboarder.

Wanaka for off-pistes

Off-pistes rating -
Off-piestes
Perfect
Wanaka is a freerider's dream, boasting a vast array of off-piste terrains that are both challenging and exhilarating. The Treble Cone area is particularly popular, offering long, steep chutes and wide-open powder bowls that are perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The resort's high altitude and cold temperatures ensure that the snow remains light and fluffy, providing the perfect conditions for off-piste skiing.

Wanaka for families

Families rating -
Perfect
Wanaka is a fantastic choice for families seeking a relaxed and scenic ski holiday. The resort offers a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for advanced skiers, ensuring a fun-filled experience for everyone. The resort also offers ski schools and kids' programs, making it easy for young ones to learn and enjoy the sport. Off the slopes, families can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the beautiful Lake Wanaka. The town itself is family-friendly with a range of accommodation options and eateries to suit all budgets.

Wanaka apres-ski

Apres-ski rating -
Perfect
Wanaka offers a laid-back après-ski scene, perfect for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere after a day on the slopes. You can unwind at the local bars such as Gin and Raspberry, Post Office Lane, or Water Bar, each offering a unique vibe and a selection of local wines and craft beers. For those seeking a bit more excitement, there are occasional live music events and themed nights to enjoy.

Wanaka

food scene

Wanaka food scene

Wanaka is a fantastic choice for families seeking a relaxed and scenic ski holiday. The resort offers a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for advanced skiers, ensuring a fun-filled experience for everyone. The resort also offers ski schools and kids' programs, making it easy for young ones to learn and enjoy the sport. Off the slopes, families can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the beautiful Lake Wanaka. The town itself is family-friendly with a range of accommodation options and eateries to suit all budgets.