Things to do in Mount Aspiring

Stroll past cascading waterfalls and view towering glaciers at Lake Wanaka. Cruise across the tranquil, dark water and unwind in the sun on empty lakeside beaches.

When the air is crisp and the snow fresh, Cardona Alpine Resort is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream. On-mountain accommodation will put you close to the action, letting you ski or snowboard right out onto its 850 acres (3.5 square kilometers) of skiable terrain. Test out the nursery slopes, practice flips, spins and slides in the four terrain parks, or tackle the challenging backcountry runs.

Stay at Lake Hawea and be rejuvenated by the vivid scenery at this popular South Island destination. Hike nature trails, fish for trout and enjoy water sports on the lake.

Spend a few hours strolling amid the dazzling purple hues of flowering lavender while visiting the Wanaka Lavender Farm. Spread across 20 acres (8 hectares), the farm presents a colorful foreground to dramatic alpine landscapes. Admire thousands of lavender plants and other seasonally flowering plants. Say hello to farm animals, play giant games and sample lavender-infused food and drink.

Visit Puzzling World to enjoy a wide variety of amusing visual tricks and brainteasers. See a strange Roman toilet, test yourself at puzzle games and feel dizzy in a tilted room.

Captivating vistas of stunning landscapes are the reward for a visit to Mount Iron Lookout, an observation area at the top of Mount Iron. This glacier-carved rocky knoll rises 787 feet (240 meters) above the lakeside resort of Wanaka and is reached via a 2.8-mile (4.5-kilometer) loop trail.