Mou Waho Island Cruise & Self-Guided Nature Walk
4.9 / 5 · 8 traveler reviews
Enjoy a comfortable cruise on our 28 seat super taxi Moutimu and a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper to answer your questions along the way. Cruise through outstanding mountain scenery to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve. We are contracted to the Department of Conservation and every guest contributes to funding the conservation work on Mou Waho Island ensuring that it is a predator-free conservation area for our unique native birds and other fauna. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the Mountain Stone Weta and many other native birds. A two hour self-guided nature walk is included and this will take you up to the natural glacial lake right on top of the island and magnificent mountain and lake scenery in every direction. This is rated as one of the top activities by visitors to Wanaka and rated among the best Wanaka walks and hikes.
Your experience
Stop 1
Cruise on lake Wanaka NZ with a commentary by your knowledgeable local kiwi skipper. Learn about the origins of Lake Wanaka, its unique islands and geology as you cruise.
Stop 2
Pass Ruby Island - home of the 1920's dance Hall. Discover the tale of Ruby and the island cabaret where locals went by boat to escape the prohibition laws on the mainland.
Stop 3
Spend 2 hours ashore exploring the predator-free Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. Home to many native birds, gecko's and unique insects such as the Mountain Stone Weta. See the very rare flightless Buff Weka, extinct on the mainland since the 1920's.
Stop 4
Hike to the famous lake on top of an island. This natural glacial lake will charm you with it's beauty. Hosting islands of it's own which are islands in a lake, on an island in a lake, on an island in a an ocean!
Stop 5
Cruise on Lake Wanaka back to Roys Bay Wanaka passing the awe inspiring Stevenson's Peninsula. Part of Mount Burke high country sheep station it towers overhead. A keen eye will spot wild Chamois amongst the rocky outcrops.
What’s included
- Department of Conservation Park fees
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Cruise and self-guided Island walk
- Local skipper
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Guiding on Mou Waho Island
Meeting and pickup
You will board your vessel from the Wanaka Lake Front. In between the Old Town Jetty and the Dinosaur Park. Please be at the departure point before 8.45 am. If you are not present at 8.45 am, you may not be able to join the cruise. Parking may or may not be available depending on the season.
Before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Boarding is at 8.45 am. You may not be admitted if you are not present at this time.
- This experience requires a minimum of 4 adult bookings to run
- An average level of fitness is required for the walk
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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