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Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks.
Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters.
Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island.
Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum numbers apply
A 20/30 minute walk up hill is involved. (Optional)
Due to uneven surfaces and the steepness in places, the walk is not recommended for those with walking disabilities but they are more than welcome to join us on the boat trip and skip the walk and stay at the bottom of the island.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Landing and facility fees
1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island
Extensive live commentary onboard
Hotel pickup and drop-off
10 am 2 pm: Mou Waho Island Tour
Operated by Aqua Adventures Wanaka LTD trading as Wanaka Water taxi Wanaka 4x4 Explorer
127 reviews
Shannon H,Nov 13, 2024
We were very lucky and had a beautiful day out on the lake. The boat ride to Mou Waho was very nice, Brent stopped along the way to show us things and share some of the history and facts about the area. The island itself was gorgeous. The lake was high, so we had to disembark a little creatively, but it was a fun way to start the walk to the overlook that had stunning views. Great way to spend an afternoon in Wanaka!
DorothyFox,Nov 9, 2024
Would not recommend this tour. It is operated by mostly young, inexperienced folks. They want to enjoy their time at the expense of ours. Instead of removing a kayak from the back of the boat they made us jump off the side boat up to our thighs. Ruining our hiking boots for the rest of our holiday and leaving us with wet clothing for cold hike. Selfishness and laziness! 300$ worth of hiking equipment got ruined.
Alan S,May 8, 2024
A wonderful day on the lake! Our host (i'm sorry I've forgotten his name) was great, his knowledge of the geography, fauna and flora, and the local history was well explained. We saw lots of wild life and really enjoyed the view from the bluff. A great day out.
Morgan,Mar 16, 2024
The tour guide was friendly and super knowledgeable. He described the geology and history of the area, and was easy to talk to. The ride to the island was easy and really scenic, despite the weather (it was really windy and rainy in patches). The walk uphill on Mou Waho as at least 30 to 40 minutes and is a solid uphill climb, and you get to listen to beautiful birdsong the whole way. The scenery at top is incredible. If the weather is windy, dress warmly! And dress and layers because you will get warm, climbing uphill.
Niroshe A,Mar 13, 2024
The tour guide Brett was so knowledgeable and great. We had plenty of time to get up to the top and enjoy the view, then come down. It's a steep climb to the top but well worth it.