Overview
Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand's longest lake at about 80km, with a distinctive S-shape carved by glaciers. Its deep, clear waters (380m at the deepest) shift color throughout the day, and the reflections of the Remarkables and Cecil Peak create some of the world's most beautiful lake scenery. A cruise on the historic 1912 steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm is a highlight. The lake mysteriously rises and falls 12cm every 5 minutes. TSS Earnslaw cruise from NZD 79. Access from Queenstown's waterfront.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours (TSS Earnslaw: 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 departures)
Travel Tips
Book the TSS Earnslaw cruise in advance, and add the Walter Peak BBQ lunch. Sunsets viewed from the Queenstown Gardens lakefront trail are spectacular.
Hotels near Lake Wakatipu
Hotels and guesthouses in Queenstown, Queenstown, Otago
Other attractions in Queenstown
Milford Sound
A breathtaking fjord in Fiordland National Park, carved by glaciers and lined with cascading waterfalls.
Skyline Gondola
A gondola ride to a viewpoint with sweeping vistas of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Kawarau Bungy
The world's first commercial bungy site, where you leap 43 m off a historic bridge into the river.
Glenorchy
A village famous as a Lord of the Rings filming location, surrounded by heavenly landscapes.
Queenstown Gardens
A beautiful park on a Lake Wakatipu peninsula, perfect for walks and disc golf.
Arrowtown
A charming former gold-mining town preserving its Gold Rush-era atmosphere.
The Remarkables Ski Field
One of the South Island's top ski resorts, with Queenstown as its stunning backdrop.