Winter in Queenstown: Beyond the Slopes—Discover the Beauty and Adventure Without Skis
Wanaka and Lake Hāwea are an hour from Queenstown by car — here's why a self-drive day trip beats the bus for winter photos, paragliding, and sauna sessions.
Winter in Queenstown: Beyond the Slopes—Discover the Beauty and Adventure Without Skis
Some of Queenstown's best winter experiences aren't on the mountain at all — they're a scenic drive away in Wanaka and Lake Hāwea. Here's where to go and why having your own car makes all the difference.
Capture the Beauty for the Perfect Insta Snap
Winter in Queenstown is the perfect time to take in breathtaking views and snap some envy-inducing photos. A must-visit is the picturesque town of Wanaka, just an hour's drive away. Make sure to stop by the famous Wanaka Tree—an iconic, solitary tree growing in the lake that's perfect for those unforgettable shots. Tag us @evolverentalsnz in your photos — we love seeing where our cars take you. While you're in Wanaka, why not elevate your experience (literally) with a flight over the stunning landscape? Wanaka Paragliding launches from Treble Cone, about 25 minutes past Wanaka township, so you'll need your own transport to reach the takeoff point — no shuttle required if you've got a car. Book with Evolve Rentals and make the Wanaka run part of your day.
Relaxation Away from the Crowds
For those seeking peace and tranquility, a visit to The Secret Sauna is a must. Their Lake Hāwea location is about 15 minutes' drive from Wanaka township, with a second sauna now in Cardrona, roughly 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport. Neither is walkable or bus-accessible, so a rental car is the easiest way to fit one into your day. Insider tip: Book the last sauna session of the night to witness the moonrise over the mountains—an absolutely breathtaking sight. If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the lake during or after your sauna session for an invigorating experience that will leave you refreshed and revitalized.
Your Winter Adventure Awaits
Whether you're exploring picturesque Wanaka or unwinding at The Secret Sauna, getting there is half the challenge without your own vehicle — both are well outside walking or bus range. With so much to see and do, having a reliable rental car is essential to make the most of your time here. Book with Evolve Rentals today and explore Queenstown and beyond at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Follow us on Instagram for more Queenstown inspiration and customer road trips.
FAQs
Do I need a car to visit Wanaka from Queenstown in winter?
Yes — Wanaka is about an hour's drive from Queenstown, and there's no direct public transport link that makes day-tripping there practical, so a rental car is the easiest way to go.
How do I get to The Secret Sauna from Wanaka?
Their Lake Hāwea location is about 15 minutes' drive from Wanaka township; the newer Cardrona location is roughly 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport. Both require your own transport.
Where does Wanaka Paragliding depart from?
Flights launch from Treble Cone, about 25 minutes past Wanaka township, so you'll need a car (or their own transfer, if offered) to get there.
Is the Wanaka Tree easy to find without a car?
It's right on the Wanaka lakefront, so it's walkable once you're in town — but you'll still need a car to get to Wanaka itself from Queenstown.