Wānaka is like Queenstown’s go-with-the-flow younger sibling… vibrant, cool, and a little quirky. It gives off laidback living vibes and teamed with its natural surroundings—stunning alpine and lake surrounds may we add—its location makes it home to some of the most beautiful boutique accommodation options in the country.
Housed in Wānaka’s remote glacial valleys, lifestyle blocks, and lakefront locations you’ll find everything from tranquil couples escapes, to luxe-wood-cabin-esque chalets and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are only accessible via helicopter.
Whether you’re in town to hike, ski, wine taste, or golf, here are 12 boutique accommodation options to level up your stay in Wānaka.
Cardrona Hotel
Crown Range, Cardrona
Image credit: Cardrona Hotel | Website
As one of New Zealand’s oldest historic hotels and most photographed buildings, you will most likely recognise the facade of this icon from your social media feed.
Situated on the spectacular Crown Range, at the mid-point between Queenstown and Wānaka, the Cardrona Hotel oozes charming gold mining history from every inch of its weatherboard bones (in fact, it’s one of only two remaining buildings from the era) yet has all the modern comforts to make your stay relaxing.
With an atmosphere like no other and an epic beer garden on-site, this slice of Kiwi history is a must-visit whether you’re staying in town or passing through.
Buchanan Lodge
Buchanan Rise, Roys Peninsula
Image credit: Buchanan Lodge | Booking .com
This place gives us the vibes of your boujee, yet humble family friends who own a holiday home in Wānaka (and everywhere else). With its striking dark wood beams and finishings to its crisp white linen and cosy bedrooms, the Buchanan Lodge is luxurious, yet oh so welcoming.
Hosting up to nine guests at one time, this exclusive 60-acre property is ideal for those intimate getaways with family and friends. Explore the three private beaches by day, and curl up in front of the roaring schist log fire by night.
Kauri House Apartment
Aubrey Road, Wānaka
Image credit: Kauri House Apartment | Booking .com
A hidden one-bedroom BnB in the foothills of Mt Iron, Kauri House Apartment is a romantic hideaway that will sure-fire earn you brownie points with the other half. The apartment features century-old, 10-meter Kauri beams, along with recycled wood, tiles, and stained glass windows, making it truly something special.
Nestled amongst the trees, this little gem boasts a wraparound balcony to enjoy the 270-degree views, while listening to nothing but birdsong. Plus, a delicious continental or cooked breakfast, snacks and a complimentary bottle of wine are included. Cheers to that!
Mahu Whenua
Motatapu Road, Wānaka
Image credit: Mahu Whenua | Booking .com
Chef-prepared meals, personal on-site hosts, and endless opulence…Mahu Whenua is a slice of paradise only 20 minutes from central Wānaka. Surrounded by high country sheep stations, this relaxed homestead offers five rustic, yet luxurious suites with jaw-dropping views of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountains.
The luxe-living continues with a sprawling farmhouse kitchen, a grand open living room, and numerous outdoor areas to watch the sunset over the mountain tops. Bliss.
Maple Lodge
Halliday Road, Wānaka
Image credit: Maple Lodge | Airbnb
Situated amongst a beautiful maple plantation, aptly named Maple Lodge is a place of gathering, memory making and quality time without the distractions of the outside world.
Perfect for a special occasion or family get-together, this tranquil retreat offers seven en-suite bedrooms with a large lounge, dining area, and expansive gardens looking out to the mountains. And while you may feel completely off the grid, it’s just a five-minute drive into town.
Hāwea Hotel
Lake Hāwea
Image credit: Hāwea Hotel | Booking .com
Million-dollar lake views? Yes, please. A little further afield and tucked away from the hustle and bustle of central Wānaka, you’ll find a lovely little hotel right on the shores of Lake Hāwea.
The rooms at the Hāwea Hotel each include a private balcony overlooking the aforementioned money shot and the beds have been fitted with custom bedding made from Wānaka-farmed merino—talk about comfort. For the more budget-conscious traveller, the hotel also has a hostel lodge on-site bonus.
Tin Tub Luxury Lodge
Peak View Ridge, Wānaka
Image credit: Tin Tub Luxury Lodge | Agoda .com
Nothing is too much effort for Tin Tub Luxury Lodge's owners, Trish and Bazza. They not only put on a spread when it comes to a BNB breakfast, think Central Otago fruits, homemade bread, muffins, and fresh eggs… but they’re always on hand to help you plan your stay in town.
Whether you’re into skiing, fishing, walking, wine tasting, or biking, they’ll have a top recommendation for you. There are two superb room types on offer here, however, we’d recommend booking the luxury option as you get your own retro outdoor tin tub to soak away the day.
Wānaka Luxury Apartments
Meadowstone, Wānaka
Image credit: Wānaka Luxury Apartments | Booking .com
If you want a taste of what it’s like to live in this lakeside town then the Wānaka Luxury Apartments are for you. With a suburban location just a short stroll from the action, the 29 ski-lodge-eske apartments are so homely and welcoming we’re pretty confident you won’t want to leave.
Take your pick of the one, two, or three-bedroom options all with fireplaces for those cosy après ski nights. The outdoor area won’t disappoint either, with a heated spa, pool, fireplace, and pizza oven.
Wanaka Haven
Halliday Road
Image credit: Wānaka Haven | Airbnb
POV: You’ve just poured a glass of Central Otago red after a long day on the slopes of Cadrona and you’re enjoying the crisp evening rugged up in front of a stunning outdoor fireplace—the epitome of Wānaka living.
A five-minute drive from Wānaka’s lakefront and the town centre, Wānaka Haven gives you privacy with a friendly and social atmosphere. Enjoy socialising in the shared dining room, lounge, and outdoor entertainment area, and when you’re ready for some peace and quiet tuck away to your own deluxe private room and ensuite.
The Willows
Upton Street, Wānaka
Image credit: The Willows | Airbnb
Light, bright and sundrenched, the collection of modern studios and multi-room apartments at The Willows will make you feel like you’re staying at a home away from home.
The interiors have been fully renovated with homely neutral tones and cosy linen, yet the complex still retains its classic Wānaka holiday charm.
Located on a large block in the middle of town, the location doesn’t get much better than this with a short stroll to Wānaka’s bustling bars, shops, and restaurants.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge
Minaret Bay, Wānaka
Image credit: Minaret Station Alpine Lodge | Website
Ready for the ultimate luxury escape? Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is one of the most secluded and private luxury lodges in the world… cue the helicopter chauffeur. Yes, that’s right, this station is nestled in a remote glacial valley that is only accessible via chopper.
A unique and memorable accommodation experience, Minaret Station offers four stunning chalets, divine cuisine, and the best part? You can soak in your own private outdoor hot tub while watching the stars twinkle above.
Whare Kea Chalet
Albert Burn Saddle, Southern Alps
Image credit: Whare Kea Chalet | Website
If one of your childhood dreams was to sleep in the wilderness (ours too), then it’s time to make it happen. Albeit, the now ‘grown-up’ version.
At 1750 metres above sea level, situated between the peaks of the Southern Alps and on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park, the Whare Kea Chalet screams one word, magic!
Not to be confused with NZ's typical alpine huts, this spacious loft is the king of comfort with two double bedrooms, heating, hot showers, and impressive windows framing the views of Mt. Cook and the tumbling glaciers of Mt. Aspiring. Plus, you get to enjoy a scenic 20-minute helicopter ride to get there.
All this browsing got your belly rumbling? Check out the best cafes in Wānaka.
Main image credit: Mahu Whenua | Booking .com
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