[Explore Lake Wanaka] Mou Waho Island Cruise & Nature Walk | New Zealand
- Carbon Positive Experience: Every trip plants native forests in New Zealand
- Self-Guided or Guided: Explore at your own pace or join a knowledgeable guide for an immersive nature walk
- Majestic Lake Cruise: Enjoy a smooth ride on our 28-seat super taxi, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery
- Conservation Contribution: Each visit supports ongoing conservation efforts on Mou Waho Island
- Breathtaking Views: Discover a glacial lake at the summit and capture spectacular views from the lookout rock
Package Options
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mou Waho Island, a predator-free nature reserve nestled in the heart of Lake Wanaka. As Wanaka’s first carbon-positive operator, every trip with us contributes to planting native forests in New Zealand, making your adventure both unforgettable and eco-friendly.
Choose between a self-guided or guided experience on Mou Waho Island. On the self-guided option, enjoy two hours of exploration at your own pace, with tips from our friendly crew to make the most of your visit. For a more immersive experience, opt for the guided tour, where our knowledgeable guide will accompany you on a nature walk, sharing fascinating insights into the island’s geology, history, flora, fauna, and local culture.
Your adventure begins with a smooth cruise aboard our 28-seat super taxi, Moutimu, captained by a skilled Kiwi skipper. As you glide across Lake Wanaka, soak in the majestic mountain scenery surrounding you. Upon arrival at Mou Waho Island, you’ll be greeted by the rare flightless Buff Weka, the Mountain Stone Weta, and a variety of native birds—testaments to ongoing conservation efforts supported by your visit.
The guided nature walk takes you to the island’s summit, where a natural glacial lake awaits, offering magnificent views in every direction. Continue to the lookout rock for some of the region’s most spectacular photo opportunities. As a Department of Conservation concession holder, we ensure that each visit contributes directly to the conservation of this pristine environment.
Explore at your own pace or join a knowledgeable guide for an immersive nature walk
Enjoy a smooth ride on our 28-seat super taxi, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery
Take a break and capture this moment by taking photos with loved ones
Purchase Notice
- The Island walk is 1 km in total length and rises 150 m above the beach on an average track. An above average level of fitness and mobility is advised for this experience
- Please wear rugged soled outdoor shoes or boots with a good tread for grip
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Due to uneven surfaces and boarding of the vessel, this experience is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
- When booking with KKday, guest agrees to the T&C outlined here
— What to Bring —
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Camera
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A warm jacket
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 20 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions
All cruises require a minimum of 4 adult bookings to run. Cruises with less than 4 adults booked may be cancelled by the operator on or before the scheduled cruise time
How to Redeem Your Voucher
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present the e-voucher on-site
Validity Period
- The voucher must be used on the selected date and within operating hours; Invalid after expiration
Meeting Point
Location Name: Lake Wanaka Cruises
Address: At the lakefront 100 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305, New ZealandExperience Location
Location Name: Mou Waho Island
Address: Mou Waho IslandFAQ
Yes, visitors are able to swim in the small, pristine glacial lake located at the summit of Mou Waho Island. This freshwater lake offers a unique and refreshing experience, providing a serene environment to cool off amidst the island's stunning natural landscape. It's a highlight for those seeking a deeper connection with the island's untouched nature.
The primary and most common way to reach Mou Waho Island for the nature walk is via a scenic cruise across Lake Wanaka. A dedicated vessel transports guests directly to the island, providing a comfortable journey while allowing enjoyment of the spectacular mountain scenery surrounding the lake. This cruise is an integral part of the overall island experience.
Mou Waho Island is not inhabited by humans; instead, it operates as a predator-free nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary. This status is critical for protecting rare and endangered native New Zealand flora and fauna, offering visitors a glimpse into an untouched natural ecosystem where conservation efforts are actively supported with each visit.
Mou Waho Island features a distinctive glacial lake nestled at its summit and offers breathtaking views from the prominent lookout rock. As a predator-free sanctuary, it is a haven for rare native New Zealand birds like the Buff Weka, often spotted during nature walks. The island's unique plant life also contributes to its rich and diverse ecosystem.
Both guided and self-guided tour options are available on Mou Waho Island. Visitors can choose to explore the island's trails at their own pace, or they can join a knowledgeable expert guide for an immersive nature walk. The guided option provides deeper insights into the island's unique ecosystem, conservation efforts, and its rare inhabitants.
The departure point for the Mou Waho Island cruise is conveniently located within Wanaka. Travelers can typically reach the marina or designated meeting spot by local taxi services, ride-sharing apps, or by walking if their accommodation is nearby. Specific instructions regarding the exact departure location and recommended arrival times are usually provided upon booking.
From the lookout rock on Mou Waho Island, visitors can expect truly breathtaking panoramic views. These include expansive vistas of the stunning Lake Wanaka, the majestic surrounding Southern Alps, and the unique glacial lake situated within the island itself. It serves as an exceptional vantage point for photography and appreciating the region's natural beauty.
The cruise to Mou Waho Island is conducted aboard a comfortable 28-seat super taxi named Moutimu. This vessel is specifically designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable journey across Lake Wanaka, ensuring passengers can relax and take in the stunning mountain scenery while traveling to the island.
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