Hawea Hotel, Eatery & Bar

As we were looking for a charming yet affordable place to stay near Wanaka, we came across this hotel and decided to book one night — and we’re so glad we did. From the moment we arrived, we felt warmly welcomed by the incredibly friendly and attentive staff, who were always happy to help with any questions or requests. As a lovely touch, we even received two vouchers for complimentary drinks at the bar upon arrival, which made us feel especially valued as guests. Our room was absolutely gorgeous, featuring a stunning sea view that immediately took our breath away. The balcony was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery — the view was truly spectacular, especially as the light changed in the evening. The bed was extremely comfortable, ensuring a restful night’s sleep, and the bathroom was modern, spotless, and well-equipped with everything we needed. In the evening, we dined at the hotel’s restaurant and were thoroughly impressed. The food was delicious, beautifully presented, and reasonably priced, making it a wonderful and convenient dining option after a day of exploring the area. Overall, we had a fantastic stay and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. If you’re looking for a beautiful, affordable place near Wanaka with breathtaking views, comfortable rooms, and exceptional service, I would highly recommend this hotel. We would definitely stay here again!

Stopped for a late lunch. Blue Cod fish and chips meal. Nice batter The Confit Duck Salad was delicious. The chef knows how to make a simple lunch delightful. Servers and staff are lovely. Great soft atmosphere for a quiet lunch. Thank you.

We broke up our drive by stopping here for the night. The rooms were good with a nice view of the lake. The balcony didn’t feel super safe but the view made up for it. Comfortable and clean we enjoyed it. The meal at the pub was fantastic and all staff super friendly!

Oh my goodness!!! The best view to sit outside and dine minus the wind. The food so delish!!! First time having cheesy pizzas with cloves of garlic, enjoyed every bite. The chicken like wow compliments to the chef it is exquisite with the dipping sauce. It simply melts in your mouth. Next holiday down South certainly be revisiting!

Luch was lovely, food was tasty and reasonably priced. Friendly service from the time we walked in the door and great view of lake and snow capped mountains. Good selection of beers and wine. I would recommend trying the meals they were lovely presented with unique flavours. We will definately be back. We had the wagyu cheese burger, polanta fries and buttermilk fried chicken, food was soft with exceptional flavours burger had some lovely chargrilled flavours. Had the chocolate fondant with the vanilla bean ice cream it was the best, soft on the outside and gooey on the inside lovely melted chocolate.

We popped in for a feed and drinks after a massive home and were so pleased! Delicious steak, potatoes and veg. The bruschetta was so flavoursome as well! Staff were friendly, and there was even live music! Best atmosphere that we have had on our month long honeymoon. Great options for seating indoor or outdoor

Everything about the eatery is great, except for a family that was in the restaurant area who were smashing plates on the floor and noisily messing around with the pool table and generally being loud and obnoxious, and letting their young kids run around and cause mayhem for the entire duration of their visit (to the eatery/restaurant/bar) otherwise 5 stars, because they can’t control customers but it was quite disappointing seeing the family create SO much work for the poor bartender who was cleaning up after them and their kids. And the fact that they weren’t kicked out is even more disappointing. Also the kids portions are HUGE and they are nearly as big as the adult portions, but not quite as gourmet

WOFTAM. Staff were rude, had no knowledge of their food or options. I can't remember a place where the staff have been more rude. They sat us on the window side next to a stack of dead bugsv- which they didn't clean. Seriously. The waiter huffed and puffed about having to clean a table for us to sit at. It took the staff about 5 minutes to give us menus - they were all busy chatting on the corner - and only because I was trying to get their attention that we did. We waited over 1 hour for 1 small crappy burger (for $35). Didn't even come with chips!! Never again. Avoid this place until it lifts it's standards and customer focus. Waste of . Time and Money.

If you don't want to trek back to Wanaka, Hawea Hotel is a good option for drinks or a meal in Hawea! I got the chicken sandwich with gluten free bun and fries. Nothing to write home about but well prepared and satisfying. My partner got the wings and felt they were a bit undercooked - he didn't feel the best after eating them. We enjoyed some drinks on happy hour here, and looks like they have some game and trivia nights onsite. They also have a large patio outside and billiards inside. The bartender that took our order was awesome and gave us some good recs for the area.

We grabbed takeaway from here when we were staying at the Geo Domes nearby. I thought the food was really good. I had the fish and chips, which were gluten free. I'm from the US and gluten free fish and chips is pretty much unheard of. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Everyone else I was with enjoyed their food as well.

Lake Hawea Hotel does an excellent job of Italian style pizzas cooked on stone. The views of the lake really made the experience.

Give this place a miss. Food was below average and very short on presentation. However staff were friendly.