Skip to main content

Paddling near Wanaka, Otago


Wanaka sits in the Otago high country at the southern end of Lake Wānaka, one of New Zealand's largest and clearest lakes. The town is a natural base for flatwater paddling on the lake itself, with nearby Lake Hāwea and the upper Clutha River / Mata-Au adding variety. Guided kayak and SUP trips to Ruby Island are a local staple, and the Clutha River downstream from the lake outlet draws paddlers looking for moving water.

Paddle smarter with real-time insights

Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.

Otago licenses and regulations

Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.

Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.