Wanaka Homestead Lodge & Cottages

Beside the southern shore of Lake Wānaka, this four-star homestead property delivers a 9.6 guest rating across 165 reviews — one of the strongest scores in the region. Cottages are self-contained with private bathrooms, refrigerators, extra-long beds, and outdoor terraces overlooking the garden rather than a car park.

The grounds favour active guests: bicycle rental, fishing, hiking, and ski storage cater to Wānaka's four-season calendar, with Cardrona Alpine Resort under an hour's drive. An outdoor fireplace and barbecue area extend evenings when the nor'west wind drops off the Hāwea ranges.

Wānaka township sits a short walk along the lakefront path, giving access to the waterfront restaurants on Ardmore Street without requiring a car. The tour desk arranges guided fishing on the Clutha River and heli-skiing packages departing from Wānaka Airport, six kilometres east.