Choose your package
Select an option to see its live dates and timings.
Highlights
- Experience the beauty of New Zealand's remote Mou Waho Island with a scenic 30-minute lake cruise and a 2-hour guided nature walk.
- Explore the predator-free nature reserve, and contribute to the Department of Conservation (DOC) conservation efforts with every ticket purchased.
- Immerse yourself in the island's unique ecosystem, home to rare wildlife like the flightless Buff Weka bird, as you cruise to the Mou Waho Island nature reserve.
- Part of your adventure includes a hike to an exceptional glacial lake atop the island, guided by knowledgeable Kiwi experts enriching your journey with fascinating insights.
- Fun Fact: The island is a hidden gem, home to the world's only swimming Weka bird and a geographical wonder – an island within a lake, on an island within another lake.
Your Experience
Savour the Spectacle, Support Conservation
Mou Waho Island is a delightful paradox housing a lake on an island within another. It's here you'll realign with nature, witness tireless conservation efforts, and encounter remarkable species, all while contributing to the island's preservation. This is more than just a tour; it's your chance to be a part of a purposeful journey, experiencing the thrill of discovery and leaving a positive impact. Now that's a trip worth packing for!
Cruise into Conservation and Adventure
Begin your journey on the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka, cruising against the backdrop of towering mountains on a fast but comfortable boat. This 30-minute journey is more than just a ride; it's an invitation to a secluded world on Mou Waho Island, a preserved nature reserve. Every guest's ticket contributes to conservation efforts by the Department of Conservation (DOC), making your voyage a meaningful excursion into nature.
On arrival, cast off into a 2-hour guided nature walk. Led by knowledgeable Kiwi guides, you'll traverse the predator-free island, home to the rare flightless Buff Weka, extinct on the mainland since 1920, and the aquatic Mountain Stone Weta. The pinnacle of your journey awaits at the island's summit – a natural glacial lake. Here, discover the phenomenon of a lake within an island, in a lake. It's not just the geographical wonder that will leave you breathless, but also the panoramic views from the lookout rock, offering stunning photo opportunities. The intriguing Maori and colonial history of the region shared by your guide is the cherry on top of this extraordinary adventure.
Itinerary
-
9am: Departure
-
30-minute boat cruise to Mou Waho Island
-
2 hours to enjoy the island and hike to the glacial lake on top
-
30- minute boat cruise back to Wanaka
-
12pm: Midday return
Inclusions
- Half-day tour of Mou Waho Island
- Expert guides
- 30-minute cruise to Mou Waho Island
- 2-hour nature walk
- Department of Conservation fees
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Ticket Delivery
-
Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
-
Please arrive at the boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.
-
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.
Boarding Point
-
Board your cruise at Lake Wanaka Cruises.
-
Address: At the lakefront 100 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand.
-
Landmark: At the lake edge near to the kids Dinosaur Park - look for the Wanaka Cruises sign on the beach.
Get Directions to the Boarding Point
Getting There
By Bus
-
The closest bus stop is Wanaka. It is a quick 1-minute walk to the boarding point.
-
Board buses Wanaka - Tarras or Queenstown - Franz Josef to get you there.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the experience starts.