Wanaka and Queenstown are now Australia’s lake and alpine holiday destinations of choice. The region is increasingly becoming more and more convenient and affordable to access from across the Tasman. Consequently there are significant numbers of Australians looking to invest in the property market in Wanaka and secure their piece of paradise.
Holiday destinations
Wanaka and Queenstown are regarded as among the most breath-taking holiday destinations in the world. Located next to majestic lakes surrounded by the Southern Alps mountain range, they are perfect year round holiday destinations.
Wanaka was voted one of the world’s most romantic destinations by Time Life and is just 50 minutes’ drive via the scenic Crown Range road from Queenstown. Wanaka is famous for its location on the beautiful lake with many luxury resorts, holiday homes and snow fields. Wanaka is more affordable and is regarded as a more peaceful, warmer and for some, infinitely more popular spot than Queenstown.
Wanaka’s appeal
Wanaka’s permanent population has increased over recent years with many higher net worth people taking their retirement within the area. Wanaka is a one hour drive northeast of Queenstown’s International Airport, some 420 kilometres by road southwest of Christchurch and some 260 kilometres by road northwest of Dunedin. Wanaka is north facing and situated on the southern shore of Lake Wanaka having an alpine setting. The expansive open lake frontage supports thousands of summer holiday-makers, who enjoy swimming, boating, trout fishing and water-skiing. The Cardrona, Treble Cone and the Snow Farm ski resorts lure domestic and international visitors during the winter months.
The region benefits from 4 distinctive seasons. Winters are cold and icy – perfect for the ski season. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Overall the climate is relatively dry. The region is a world class producer of Pinot Noir and as a result there are wine tourism activities. The outdoors provide the mainstay for activities. These playgrounds are supported by a sophisticated café and restaurant scene.
Getting here
Queenstown has an international airport which is served by Qantas, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Jet star. There are over 40 direct flights a week from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and connecting flights from all New Zealand’s major centres. The duration is a 3 – 4-hour flight time and varies in cost depending on the season from $200 – $500. New precision approach equipment has considerably reduced weather related airport disruption. Queenstown airport has recently completed upgrading to allow night flights making weekend escapes from Australia popular.
Looking for your own piece of paradise?
With the help of a buyer’s agent it is totally possible to get a comprehensive grasp of what this playground has to offer in the way of real estate, in a weekend commute over the Tasman. And with the recent addition of international evening flights to Queenstown Airport – you could be Friday evening after work!
Get in touch with our team on your next visit and find out more about the exciting property opportunities in Wanaka and surrounding areas.