When people say Wanaka is a little like paradise, they’re really not joking. The picturesque lakeside town is a hugely popular spot for those soaking up the holiday season, and what better way to do that than sitting in at some quality Wanaka bars with a locally made glass of vino.
The classy drinking spots make the most of their incredible mountain views, so expect to be wowed as much by what’s outside the window as inside your glass. A booming hot-spot for weddings, honeymoons and romantic getaways, Wanaka bars sure know how to seduce visitors into wanting to stay for longer.
Home to plenty of vineyards (who make world class wine that’s enjoyed around the country), as well as breweries and a distillery, Wanaka people really do know a good drop, which lucky for people like us, they’re always willing to share.
Come evening time expect to see the waterskiers, the mountain bikers, the joggers and dog walkers all settled in comfortably at one of the many outdoor spots that Wanaka bars offer with a cold pint or wine in hand. A place that is frequently the common ground for new friendships thanks to the number of tourists and holiday makers passing through, Wanaka bars make the perfect spot to get to know someone new.
If it’s the kind of night that you just don’t want to end, then stay up late and get your dancing shoes on - bars in Wanaka have a real soft spot for live music and grooving, so we suggest you don’t hold back either!
A Foodie's Guide to Queenstown and Wānaka
Paloma
Creators of authentic Mexican fare, Paloma has a simple (but by no means easy) mission: to make the best tacos in Wānaka possible using New Zealand ingredients.
Hāwea Hotel
How does the idea of enjoying your morning coffee from a private balcony, with uninterrupted views of mountains encircling one of the country’s largest lakes, sound in...
Ground Up
A brewery and taproom in one, this local favourite continues to grow from the ground up.
b.social
The b.social Brewery and Bar is a great spot for eating and drinking that is worthy of a visit (or many), whether you’re just in town for the weekend or call this beautiful region home year round.
Kai Whaka Pai
An absolute town institution, this place is humming with people Monday to Sunday, Winter through to Summer.
Rhyme and Reason
A brewery slash tasting room and bar, visit this sunny spot for a pint or fill up a rigger for takeaway.
Cork Bar
The place to go for evening drinks, Cork has an impressive array of wines, beers, fine spirits and cocktails. Served by bartenders that truly do know their stuff, it’s likely you’ll develop an infatuation with this bar very quickly.
Cardrona Distillery
Stop by for a tour and tasting session at Cardrona Distillery, and set your eyes on the magnificent copper stills that are responsible for turning grain into spirits.
Cardrona Hotel
Rumoured to be the most photographed building in the country, Cardrona Hotel was built in 1863 as first and foremost a place to stay for hardworking gold miners.