Overview Details Itinerary Dates & Pricing

Wanaka 4x4 Explorer and Scenic Boat

Nov-Apr

South Island

Wanaka Water Taxi & 4x4 Explorer

from

NZ$295

per adult

A 4WD vehicle parked on a grassy hilltop with people enjoying sweeping views over Lake Wanaka.

Experiences

4x4 Adventure Tours Cruises

Cruises

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Wanaka

Location: Wānaka

Travel Time: 4 hours

Details

Wanaka 4x4 Explorer – A Scenic and Flavourful Off-Road Tour

Start your journey from the Wanaka Marina with a peaceful boat cruise along Stevenson's Arm, where glacier-carved cliffs rise above the shimmering lake. Upon reaching a hidden beach at the base of Mt Burke, you'll switch from water to wheels, climbing high into alpine farmland with uninterrupted views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park. The 4WD track offers the perfect balance of thrill and tranquillity, with plenty of stops for photos and stories.

Guides share insights into the region’s natural geology and early settlers, adding rich context to the breathtaking scenery. Whether you're keen on photography or simply soaking in the serenity, this tour strikes the ideal balance between adventure and relaxation. Your choice of a gourmet picnic—either a morning spread with bakery items or an afternoon tea with local wine and cheeses—adds a delicious local flavour to your mountain escape.

A water taxi cruising across the calm waters of Lake Wanaka with mountain reflections.

Tour boat cruising on Lake Wanaka with alpine peaks and reflections on the water.

A group stands on a hilltop next to a 4WD vehicle overlooking Stevenson’s Arm on Lake Wanaka.

A Land Rover splashing through a shallow river crossing during a Wanaka 4WD tour.

A 4WD vehicle parked on a ridge with people admiring the view of Mount Aspiring in the background.

Sheep standing on a hilltop in the late afternoon light with mountains in the background.

A group photographing a panoramic view over Lake Wanaka from a hilltop.

A picnic set up on a hillside with a 4WD vehicle and views over Lake Wanaka.

People inside a Land Rover enjoying the mountain views on a 4WD tour near Lake Wanaka.

Close-up of a picnic with rosé, cheese, and snacks during a 4WD tour near Lake Wanaka.

A picnic hamper and thermos set up on a tartan blanket overlooking Lake Wanaka.

A group having a picnic on a ridge with panoramic views over Lake Wanaka.

A group enjoying a picnic above Stevenson’s Island with mountain and lake views.

A couple stands beside a 4WD vehicle admiring the panoramic views of Lake Wanaka.

4WD parked on a hill with group enjoying panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and Stevenson’s Island.

Group standing near a 4WD vehicle overlooking Lake Wanaka and alpine terrain.

4WD vehicle on a golden hilltop with a group enjoying scenic lake views.

4WD vehicle parked on a golden hillside with people enjoying the view over Lake Wanaka.

Two people making heart shapes with their arms overlooking Lake Wanaka and the mountains.

Inclusions

4-hour adventure experience
Small group sizes, with a maximum of five per vehicle
30-minute guided boat tour to and from your 4x4 location
A selection of fine refreshments included
Expert guides providing informative commentary
Exclusive access to Mt. Burke Station
Excellent opportunities for photography

Gourmet Picnic Options

Morning Option: Enjoy a selection of fresh fruit, slices, and muffins, complemented with tea and plunger coffee.
Afternoon Option: Savour a selection of fresh fruit, fine New Zealand cheese, and crackers, paired with a choice of local wines (White, Rosé, or Red).

Important Information

Departure times: 9 am & 1 pm (Autumn schedule at 10 am and 1 pm.)
Maximum Group Size: 5 people. Please contact us for larger groups.
Parking: Parking at the marina is limited to 4 hours. For longer stays or if full, continue 200 meters past the marina where you can park on the left side, where Lakeside Road splits (after the yellow lines). The marina's gravel area is reserved for vehicles with boat trailers only.