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Wanaka
5 km
1 hour 30 minutes
50 metres
If you are looking for the perfect introduction to the natural beauty of Wānaka without needing to pack a heavy rucksack or lace up high-tech mountaineering boots, the Waterfall Creek Track is calling your name. This is the kind of walk that reminds you why New Zealand’s South Island is consistently rated as one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It is an effortlessly beautiful stroll that hugs the western shoreline of Lake Wānaka, offering a "greatest hits" reel of the region’s scenery in just a few easy kilometres.
Whether you are a local stretching your legs on a Sunday morning or a tourist looking for that quintessential lakeside photo, this track delivers. It is a largely flat, well-maintained path that proves you don’t always have to climb a mountain to get a world-class view.
The journey begins at the western end of Roys Bay, just a stone's throw from the heart of Wānaka’s town centre. As you step onto the well-formed gravel path, the first thing you’ll notice is the atmosphere. There is a specific kind of serenity here; the sound of the lake water gently lapping against the stony shore provides a rhythmic soundtrack to your stroll.
The terrain is remarkably gentle, making it an easy grade that is accessible for almost everyone. Because the elevation gain is only about 50 metres over the entire 5km return journey, you won't find yourself huffing and puffing. Instead, you can focus on the panoramic vistas of the Southern Alps that frame the lake. The peaks often look like they’ve been painted onto the sky, especially when they are dusted with winter snow or glowing in the golden light of an autumn afternoon.
As you head away from town, the track meanders along the water’s edge. You’ll find yourself walking past the lush green lawns of Wānaka Station Park. This area has a wonderful, old-world feel to it, with stately trees that offer a bit of dappled shade. As you continue, the path skirts the edge of the Edgewater Resort and then leads you alongside the world-renowned Rippon Vineyard. Watching the rows of meticulously tended vines slope down toward the turquoise water is a highlight for many.
The final stretch of this particular track brings you to Waterfall Creek itself. The creek marks the turnaround point for this "out and back" route. Here, the perspective shifts, and you get a fantastic view across to Ruby Island, a small, jewel-like landmass sitting out in the lake. The return leg allows you to see the town of Wānaka from a distance, nestled under the watchful eye of Mount Iron.
Parking is available at the western end of Roys Bay, near the start of the track on Ardmore Street. This car park can fill up quickly, particularly during peak seasons. If full, additional parking can often be found a short distance back towards the town centre. An unsealed road also leads to parking areas closer to Waterfall Creek itself, offering an alternative starting point.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
200m away
A family-owned lakefront pub offering hearty food, a wide range of beers, cocktails, and stunning mountain views. Features indoor and outdoor seating with a cosy atmosphere.
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Out and back
The Waterfall Creek Track is famous for one feature above all others: 'That Wānaka Tree'. Located just a few hundred metres from the start of the walk, this solitary willow tree grows right out of the lake. It has become a global icon and is likely the most photographed tree in New Zealand. Whether it is surrounded by the bright greens of spring or the skeletal branches of winter, it is a must-see. We recommend stopping here early to beat the crowds that often gather for that perfect Instagram shot.
Another standout feature is the Rippon Vineyard viewpoint. Even if you don’t stop in for a tasting, the sight of the vines against the backdrop of the lake and the Southern Alps is breathtaking. It is arguably one of the most beautiful vineyard locations in the world.
For those who appreciate the smaller details, the waterfall at Waterfall Creek is a charming surprise. While it isn’t a thundering Niagara, it is a picturesque spot, particularly after a bit of rainfall. It’s the perfect place to sit on a driftwood log, enjoy a snack, and watch the boats out on the water.
Finding the trailhead is a breeze. It starts at the western end of Roys Bay, right near the intersection of Ardmore Street and the lakefront.
The lakeside vegetation and pockets of kānuka scrub are teeming with birdlife. As you walk, keep your ears open for the distinctive, melodic chime of the Tūī or the bell-like notes of the Bellbird.
One bird you are almost guaranteed to meet is the Pīwakawaka (Fantail). These cheeky little birds are known for following hikers, darting through the air to catch the insects disturbed by your footsteps. They are incredibly friendly and will often fly within a metre of you, fanning out their beautiful tails.
If you look out onto the lake, keep an eye out for the Southern Crested Grebe (Kāmana). These are rare and elegant water birds with distinctive head plumes. They build floating nests among the reeds or near the jetties. Seeing a pair of Grebes performing their "water dance" is a truly special Wānaka experience.
The Waterfall Creek Track is a true year-round destination, but each season brings a different flavour:
The area around Lake Wānaka holds deep significance. For Māori, Wānaka is a place of whakapapa (genealogy) and traditional stories. The name Wānaka is a South Island variant of wānanga, meaning a place of learning or lore. Historically, the lake was a vital source of food and a waypoint for those travelling to the West Coast in search of pounamu (greenstone).
Geologically, the landscape you see today was carved by massive glaciers thousands of years ago. As those glaciers retreated, they left behind the deep basin that now holds the pristine waters of the lake. The Waterfall Creek Track allows you to walk along the very edge of this glacial legacy, with the moraine-shaped hills of the surrounding stations providing a constant reminder of the earth's powerful history.
Once you’ve finished your 5km stroll, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel. Luckily, Wānaka has a vibrant cafe and pub scene just minutes from the trailhead.
The Waterfall Creek Track isn’t just a walk; it’s an invitation to slow down and soak in the very best of Wānaka. Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, it’s a journey well worth taking.
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Podiceps cristatus australis
One of New Zealand's rarest native birds, these elegant diving birds are known for their elaborate courtship displays and the way chicks ride on their parents' backs.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
300m away
An iconic lakefront cafe offering modern New Zealand cuisine, excellent coffee, and a relaxed, sunny atmosphere with beautiful lake views. Great for breakfast or lunch.
400m away
An iconic Kiwi pub and grill in the heart of Wanaka, offering a wide selection of tap beers, hearty meals, and a friendly, local atmosphere. Perfect for a post-hike pint and feed.
500m away
A local favourite tucked away from the main lakefront, known for its speciality coffee, famous scones, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a post-hike refuel.