Lakes Wānaka and Hāwea sit in a wide alpine bowl with clear water, beech forest, and long views to the Southern Alps. Trails wrap the shoreline and climb to lookouts above town. A campervan makes it simple to catch the quiet hours, move with the light, and keep the day unhurried between swims and short hikes.
Treat your van as base camp. Park with shade, refill water, chill lunch, then wander the lakefront or head for an easy ridge trail when the wind drops.
Area at a glance
Wānaka works because everything is close. Lakefront paths, mellow bays, and family friendly tracks are minutes from town. Short drives reach the Clutha River, Lake Hāwea, Glendhu Bay, and the start of classic half-day walks. You can fill a weekend with swims, lookouts, and easy shoreline rides without rushing.
Why a campervan fits Wānaka
- Follow the weather: swap bays or lakes when wind changes
- Carry layers for alpine sun, cool evenings, and quick lake dips
- Keep bikes, paddle gear, and picnic sorted without repacking
- Start early for quiet tracks, then pause at a shady spot for lunch
When to visit
Summer brings long, bright evenings and warm lake edges. Autumn lights up the trees on the trails. Winter days are crisp with clear views and ski options nearby. Spring is shoulder season with fresh snow up high and calm mornings by the water. Early starts help with parking year round.
Good bases and nearby spots
Look for legal campgrounds around Wānaka and Glendhu Bay with easy lake access and room to spread out. Lake Hāwea gives a quieter feel with quick drives back to town. Always follow local signage and freedom camping rules.
Easy ways to enjoy the lakes
- Sunrise walk along the Wānaka lakefront track with coffee in hand
- Late morning swim at sheltered bays like Eely Point or Glendhu
- Short hike to a viewpoint such as Mt Iron for wide valley views
- Evening ride or stroll on the Glendhu Bay Track as the light softens
Sort your wheels first
Compare layouts, heating, and storage for bikes or paddle boards. Compact vans make town parking easy. Larger rigs add comfort for cool alpine nights.
Trail etiquette
Share paths with riders and runners, keep left, and carry out all rubbish. If you open a gate, close it again.
Packing and prep
- Layers: sun shirt, warm fleece, windproof shell
- Swim gear, quick dry towels, and a small change mat
- Reusable bottles and a thermos for early starts
- Compact first aid and a headlamp for late returns
- Bike locks, small pump, and basic tool kit if riding
Driving and parking tips
- Use marked bays at popular lakefront spots and avoid soft shoulder edges
- Watch for cyclists and walkers on narrow lakeside roads
- Plan fuel and groceries before busy evening peaks
- Check local restrictions for overnight parking and dump points
Care for lakes and tracks
- Use toilets and dump stations only; never discharge grey water
- Brush boots to reduce spread of weeds on tracks
- Keep soaps and detergents away from the lake edge
- Respect quiet hours at camp and keep music low
Search Campervans — Live Availability
Make Wānaka simple
Wake with the lake, choose a calm bay, and keep the day easy. With a campervan you can chase morning light, rest through the heat, and step straight back onto the trail when the wind settles.
Event Campers pulls live availability from trusted rental brands so you can compare layouts and prices in one place. Choose what matters, book it, and focus on which track to walk first.
