That Wanaka tree

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!

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.

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.

Visited early Oct. Very serene place at night. Many photographers as expected. Sunset time is nice. Abit chilly at night so do dress layered.

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.

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.

It’s just a tree - were the comments i heard various times from our friends who visited, though i must say the highlight wasn’t exactly the tree, but the snow capped mountains as its backdrop. While we visited the beach prior to the tree, we were drawn into the mountains in the distance rather than looking for where the tree was, and remained the same focus while taking photos with the tree. It being a tree in the river definitely is worth a visit, though it’s also a good walk along the beach with the majestic view in the background 🏔️

That Wanaka Tree is a tree standing alone on the shore of the lake. People come to see the tree and one can find good amount of people around that area. Parking is free and plenty. The tree signifies the determination of standing alone in the hostile conditions also. A good evening spot to go and have a walk around the lake. Its serene, windy and lovely.

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.

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.

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.

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