That Wanaka tree
Scenic spot · Queenstown-Lakes ·

That Wanaka tree

Scenic spot · Queenstown-Lakes ·

Iconic lake tree, a photographer's dream backdrop, stunning scenery

That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by Oren Rozen (CC BY-SA 3.0)
That Wanaka tree by mariamichelle (Public Domain)
That Wanaka tree by sajithmuraleedharan1 (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by nealsommer (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by Oren Rozen (CC BY-SA 3.0)
That Wanaka tree by PhronimosNZ (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by mariamichelle (Public Domain)
That Wanaka tree by Tom Hall (CC BY 2.0)
That Wanaka tree by Loethlin (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by Loethlin (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by sajithmuraleedharan1 (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by nealsommer (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by mariamichelle (Public Domain)
That Wanaka tree by sajithmuraleedharan1 (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by rachelhw (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by PhronimosNZ (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by rachelhw (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by mariamichelle (Public Domain)
That Wanaka tree by Tom Hall (CC BY 2.0)
That Wanaka tree by sajithmuraleedharan1 (Atlas Obscura User)
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null
That Wanaka tree by null

Information

Roys Bay 59 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand Get directions

Information

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Roys Bay 59 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand Get directions

+64 3 441 0700
lakewanaka.co.nz
LakeWanakaNZ
𝕏
@lakewanaka_nz

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wheelchair accessible parking lot

Last updated

Dec 3, 2025

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@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

50 Obscure and Amazing Places to Visit in 2017

"Framed by the South Island’s stunning Southern Alps, a lonely tree has grown up to spread its wings just off shore at the south end of Lake Wānaka. Known as the “lone tree of Lake Wānaka,” it is said to be one of the most photographed trees in all New Zealand. However, you still need to have the inside scoop to find it, as there are no signs directing people to the solitary tree. It’s just enough off of the beaten path to not be bothered by too many tourists unless they’ve done their research. Walking along the lake to find the lone tree is a beautiful sight. When you arrive, you’ll find beach access on the shore just a stone’s throw away from the tree, the perfect place to have a picnic and watch the sun set or rise. If you can stand the cold but refreshing water of Lake Wānaka, swimming is a great way to awaken the senses.   The lone tree is right at the foothills of Mount Aspiring National Park, a World Heritage Site, acting as a doorway into even more of the breathtaking landscapes that embody the South Island of New Zealand. Try visiting when the sun is low on the horizon and there’s an abundance of colorful low light, rather than the view being bleached out by the midday sun. At this time of day you’re also more likely to find the lone tree of Lake Wānaka, all alone." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/the-50-most-wondrous-places-to-visit-in-2017
Tom Hall (CC BY 2.0)
#ThatWanakaTree
@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

15 Peaceful Places to Get Away From It All

"Framed by the South Island’s stunning Southern Alps, a lonely tree has grown up to spread its wings just off shore at the south end of Lake Wānaka. Known as the “lone tree of Lake Wānaka,” it is said to be one of the most photographed trees in all New Zealand. However, you still need to have the inside scoop to find it, as there are no signs directing people to the solitary tree. It’s just enough off of the beaten path to not be bothered by too many tourists unless they’ve done their research. Walking along the lake to find the lone tree is a beautiful sight. When you arrive, you’ll find beach access on the shore just a stone’s throw away from the tree, the perfect place to have a picnic and watch the sun set or rise. If you can stand the cold but refreshing water of Lake Wānaka, swimming is a great way to awaken the senses.   The lone tree is right at the foothills of Mount Aspiring National Park, a World Heritage Site, acting as a doorway into even more of the breathtaking landscapes that embody the South Island of New Zealand. Try visiting when the sun is low on the horizon and there’s an abundance of colorful low light, rather than the view being bleached out by the midday sun. At this time of day you’re also more likely to find the lone tree of Lake Wānaka, all alone." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/solitude
Tom Hall (CC BY 2.0)
#ThatWanakaTree
@cntraveler
41,178 Postcards · 5,521 Cities

New Zealand's Lake Wanaka Tree Is Being Destroyed by Tourists

"The Lake Wanaka Tree, a lone willow often featured on Instagram, is suffering damage due to tourists climbing on it. Its branches have broken under the strain, exacerbated by its brittle wood and challenging environment. Efforts are being made by the New Zealand Tourism Board to prevent further damage by installing warning signs and considering other measures."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/new-zealands-lake-wanaka-tree-is-being-destroyed-by-tourists
#ThatWanakaTree

Rohan J.

Google
Iconic and absolutely stunning! The lone tree in Lake Wanaka makes for a perfect photo spot, especially during sunrise or sunset. Easy to access from the shore, and the views of the lake and mountains are breathtaking. A must-see when visiting Wanaka!

s V.

Google
Also known as the That Wānaka Willow, it is the nickname of a willow tree located at the southern end of Lake Wānaka in the Otago region of New Zealand. The tree grows alone in the water and is a popular destination for tourists to take photos. It was planted as a fence post and unexpectedly grew. It has since become a popular destination at Lake Wanaka. It is easy to get to from the public car park nearby. Easy terrain but a fair bit walking. Check the tides before planning a visit as water can cover the tree trunk - though not totally. Popular with photographers, so you may have to wait your turn. Toilets available nearby. Cafes and restaurants available in around the lake car park. Free entry. The lake itself is a beautiful place. Lots to see. Lovely place for picnic. Great place for photography.

Anna D.

Google
Wānaka is absolutely beautiful — a perfect mix of mountain scenery, a peaceful lake, and a friendly small-town vibe. The famous lone Wānaka tree is even more stunning in person, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the water. Great cafés, scenic walks, and endless photo opportunities. A must-visit spot on the South Island!

John C

Google
Taking a walk along Lake Wanaka was such a relaxing and chill experience. The path is easy and scenic, with stunning views the whole way. The mountains across the lake were dusted with snow when I visited, which made the whole scene feel almost unreal. Standing alone in the water, it had this quiet, almost poetic feel to it—kind of lonely, but beautiful in a peaceful way. It’s one of those spots that makes you stop and take it all in. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Wanaka. Bring a warm drink, take your time, and just enjoy the stillness.

Daryl

Google
The Wanaka Tree is one of those iconic spots that looks beautiful in photos, especially with the lake and mountains as its backdrop. When I visited, the weather was gloomy with rain, which made the view a little less impressive compared to the postcards and online shots. It’s still a unique sight, but in my opinion, it’s not really worth making a special trip just for the tree. The experience is much better if you’re already staying in Wanaka town, where you can enjoy the lakefront, local cafes, and the relaxed atmosphere while also taking the time to see the tree. It’s a nice stop, but the real charm is in exploring the town and surrounding scenery rather than focusing on a single photo spot.

M4l2K T.

Google
It’s just a tree in a lake but there are so many people that come here to photograph it. I guess there’s something poetic about how it is. The surrounding is beautiful, serene and at the same time tragic.

Siddhant V.

Google
100% WORTH VISITING. There are magnificent views and the park benind it and the place itself if super picturesque and photogenic.... Even when it is crowded, there is ample of space and very beautiful and worth visiting.

Paul O.

Google
No entrance ticket required. Depending time of the day to view the whole tree from ground up. When we were there it was high tide. It is a take a snap photo & leave stop. Very close to the town & parking are available. Toilets too very closeby
google avatar

Amanda K.

Yelp
I had seen photos of this tree that grows in the middle of the lake, and while driving through Wanaka I decided to make a very short detour to see the famous tree in person. It's a cool tree, and the autumn colours in March were pretty amazing. But at the end of the day, it's a tree in a lake. There were loads of tourists here, which was interesting to watch. Lots of people doing weird - ahem, interesting - photo shoots. Though the tree is something cool to see, the tourists may have been even more interesting. It's cold and windy in March, so bring a jumper or three. There aren't really places to chill, so I wouldn't plan on staying here for too long, it's just a drive by & snap a photo type of place. But definitely Instagram worthy and definitely a good time with the photo shoot watching.
google avatar

Sophie L.

Yelp
Yep, it's #thatwanakatree. I tried to avoid the crowds and get some sunrise photos of the tree. Even showing up at 5:45am (before sunrise) did not give me the crown of "first person onsite". Not to worry though, there were only really 10-15 photographers around for the sunrise shots. They were all carrying professional camera gear (with tripods), so they were respectful of each other's personal space and not getting in each other's way. I can't say the same about other tourists. There is a parking lot that can fit ~20 vehicles, fewer if some of them are camper vans. If you can't find parking in the lot, there is free street parking just across the street from the lot, which will add another 3-5 minute walk for you.
google avatar

Mark A.

Yelp
The Wanaka Tree is the kind of thing you've probably never heard of before going to New Zealand. But then, once you get there, you'll see pictures of it. Not all over the place, but from time to time. It's a small tree in a lake. No, it didn't flood, causing the tree's base to be underwater temporarily, it's always like this. So in that sense, its a good thing to go see. The lake is scenic and is ringed by mountains, again adding to the scenic value of the location. However, when you get there, it's a tree in a lake. Stop, take a picture, and that's it. There's just not that much too it. Honestly, its probably a good thing that it's in the lake, as it prevents tourists from getting too close. This means that you won't have to wait for tons of people to clear away to get your shot. But make no mistake, there will be others there when you go. If you are going between Queenstown and the West Coast, stop here and check it out.
google avatar

Eric C.

Yelp
The famous Wanaka Tree of Instagram fame. When we came it was not crowded at all with maybe 2 other groups of people there. Totally worth the stop if you are nearby Wanaka and want to see the magical tree for yourself. #thewanakatree