Dreaming of a Lockdown Escape

If you have been dreaming of a trip to Wanaka while in lockdown, this blog will provide information and some inspiration to get researching.

Planning a lock down Escape.

Planning a lock down escape is quite exciting, especially at a time when so much of the news we hear is doom and gloom. With COVID-19 and the lock down forcing all businesses (except essential) to close, we are awaiting an update to provide more clarity on what is on offer. But don’t let that stop your planning.  A lock down escape will be the best time to capatalise on making the most of what we have locally and regionally.

Before planning your ideal lock down escape, we thought it would be a good time to put together some key things for you to think about, before you get lost in your thoughts.

1. Where should I go? Trick question! With so much on offer in Wanaka, we know that question is already answered.

Three people hiking Matukituki Valley.
Hiking in the Matukituki Valley

2. Who do I go with?

Love the people in your bubble but need to get out of the house? This is a great time to plan a trip with all the things you are missing doing together.

Have family you have only been able to talk to via a phone or computer screen? Then an escape weekend to Wanaka will have you closer than ever. 

Missing your friends and the catch ups you used to take for granted? Pick a date that suits you all and let the fun planning begin.

Need a romantic weekend away with your ‘special friend’? Make the most of the peace and quiet of our own backyard.

People enjoying the snow on Cardrona in Wanaka.
Head up to the snow in Winter in Wanaka

3.  When do we come?

 May & June are when Wanaka is at its absolute quietest. You can expect some cloudy days, with cold day time temperatures. Perfect if your priority is to be social inside, but still get out and hit up a bike trail, like Deans Bank Track, or enjoy the walking tracks around the lake.

July, August & September are full force Winter and you will need to pack plenty of warm clothing. This time of the year is traditionally known for cold, crisp, blue bird days. Great for a hike with a view, like Rocky Mountain, or a ski trip to Cardrona or Treble Cone.

October & November are starting to warm up again, but layered clothing is still important for fresh mornings. With spring in the air and the flowers in bloom there are great photo opportunities all around. It is a superb time to experience the wineries or take part in the local tours and activities.

December to March are Wanaka’s hottest months and you will need to make sure you pack the sunscreen. The long days mean there is plenty of time to make the most of a range of lake activities, visit the local cafes and restaurants, stretch your legs on some longer hikes or simply relax by the lake with a book.

Local wine enjoying the view of the beautiful Golden Ash Tree while staying at Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park.
Local wine enjoying the view of the beautiful Golden Ash Tree

4. What will we do when we get there ?     

From the base of our Holiday Park you can hire bikes or just relax in the onsite spa & sauna.

Save your pennies and enjoy the local walking and hiking tracks, a game of disc golf, a visit to the animals at the Lavender Farm or some free wine tastings.

Support the wonderful local cafes and restaurants that we are all hoping will open sooner, rather than later.

Check out the commercial operations that are back up and running and try something new.

So, what are you waiting for? Make the most of the time you have now and get planning for your post lock down escape to Wanaka.

Cyclists mountain biking the Glendhu Bay track by Lake Wanaka.
Hire a bike with us and enjoy the Millenium Track, its right on our doorstep.

Posted by Andrea Kendrick on April 17, 2020