Wanaka Water Taxi Mou Waho Island Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours 15 minutes

Mobile ticket

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.

Additional Info

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.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Landing and facility fees

1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island

Extensive live commentary onboard

Hotel pickup and drop-off

What To Expect

Wanaka Water Taxi and Wanaka 4x4 Explorer

We will meet you on the jetty. From here we will boat 15km up the lake to the scenic reserve, Mou Waho Island. Your skipper will inform you about the history and geology of the lake while cruising the sparkling waters of Lake Wanaka

•Admission Not Applicable

Lake Wanaka

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, steep walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breath taking 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. Stay for 1.5 hours on the island to explore at your own pace.

1 hour 30 minutes•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Mou Waho Island Tour

Mou Waho Island Tour: Enjoy fascinating insights from your skipper en route, then explore the island on your own
Duration: 3 hours: 3-3.5 hours

8.30AM EARLY BIRD EXPRESS

8.30AM Early Bird Express: Faster early-morning water taxi-only service to Mou Waho Island. No commentary, shorter boat ride, same time on the island.
Duration: 3 hours: 2.5 to 3 hour (shorter than our usual tour).

Reviews

4.94

179 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

174

This was awesome! I went...
vnythwgvrp,
Jun 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This was awesome! I went with my partner and friends and we couldn’t believe out of all the recommendations from people to do in the South Island, this wasn’t on anyone’s list. Make it on your list. The tour guide was friendly, kind and informative. Such beautiful scenery and a gorgeous mini hike on the island. 10/10 would recommend!
Informative, fun and a great experience
Missy D,
Apr 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Our water taxi driver was fantastic. We stopped at various spots on the lake on the way to Mou Waho where told us about the lake formation, and various geological tidbits. Kept it intersting with a couple little local tales as well. Got us over with plenty of time to explore, told us what animals to keep a look out for and then charged on back at the end of the tour. Highly recommend this!
Boat tour and island stop ideal for family
julie t,
Mar 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00
We really enjoyed the boat tour with all the information regarding the islands and conservation efforts. They gave us plenty of time to explore the area. We also lucked out with perfect weather.
Lake Wānaka and the islands
Michael G,
Mar 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The boat ride was fast but comfortable and the guide/driver gave a good commentary on the islands and the shore line. We had 1 1/2 hours to explore the island The climb was very steep and rough but well worth it for the view
Nice few hours on the lake and island..
Jay S,
Feb 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Hannah did a great job as boat skipper. Trip was informative and well organized. Nice for a few hours on the lake and to take an easy hike up on the island and the views!