Wānaka: Roys Peak hike insight
With Lake Tekapo done and the New Zealand journey almost at its conclusion, I had a few more stops left on my list, and for a while, I had Roys Peak circled on as one of the more anticipated activities on my radar, which is where we find ourselves in the begging portion of this blog, the beautiful city of Wanaka.
(The beautiful Roys Peak starting point)
| Difficulty | Moderate – Hard |
| Distance | 16km |
| Track details | Open all year round except 1st Oct – 10th Nov due to lambing. $2 coin donation found in the honesty box at the beginning of the trail |
| Time | Allow for 5-6 hours |
| Elevation | 1,285m |
Roys Peak is one of New Zealand’s most popular hikes across the country because of the stunning views you quickly get used to while on the trail. It is regarded as quite challenging due to the zigzagging of the trail, making it one of the most demanding hikes you’ll do in the country. To start the trail, you’ll need to drive about 10 minutes outside Wanaka along Mt Aspiring Road to reach Roys Peak car park. From there, the ascent begins, and over the next 2.5 hours, you’ll eventually arrive at the viewpoint overlooking the beautiful Lake Wanaka. From this point, you can continue for another 30 minutes to reach the mountain’s summit.
(Already starts off with an amazing view)
(Top of Roy’s Peak)
Track conditions during this hike largely depend on the weather. For about 5-6 hours, you’ll be on open gravel trails exposed to Wanaka’s tough environment, with plenty of sun, wind, and rain adding extra challenges. Towards the end of my hike, it was raining, and although I had suitable footwear and clothing, the rain made descending tricky. While going downhill can be easier, surfaces can become slippery and tough on your knees. You’ll warm up during the walk, but it’s important to bring warm clothes, as weather changes can bring cooler or even freezing conditions, with temperatures sometimes dropping below zero or rising up to 5 degrees, depending on the season. Hiking poles would be handy, but aren’t essential if you don’t have them.
There isn’t much more to say about Roy Peak that hasn’t already been mentioned: stunning views, a great workout, and an overall memorable experience that is super photogenic; making it a top hike that’s well worth recommending to anyone visiting New Zealand.
(That Wānaka Tree)
Places to stay in Wānaka
If you’re seeking a place to stay while visiting Wanaka, Mt Aspiring Holiday Park is an affordable and convenient option worth considering. This campsite offers fully furnished rooms, kitchen facilities, a pool, and, on request at the office during check-in, a spa. Additionally, there are powered and non-powered sites to suit all kinds of travellers. The site is only 2 km from Roys Peak, making it perfect for those wanting to complete the hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you haven’t secured accommodation yet, you can call and book on the same day, subject to availability. Starting at $39 for non-powered sites, this spot offers great value, particularly in terms of location and cost, especially if you’re travelling in a campervan and on a budget.
After my hike on Roys Peak was done, I headed out of Wanaka the next day, but not before visiting #thatwanakatree and walking around the lake to take in the views before my 4-day stay in Queenstown.
(A Walk alongside the ocean where that Wānaka Tree is found)
Queenstown
After a long journey on the road, the first thing I decided to do while in Queenstown was not to stay in my car and get a hostel for the few nights I was in town. The decision was mainly due to the number of activities I had booked close to the city centre, which made it quite convenient to stay within. If you are interested, and with this being the only campsite close and affordable, there is the 12 Mile Delta. It is about 15 minutes outside of Queenstown, with the price only being $15 a night, making it even more appealing as it is right beside Lake Wakatipu and home to Ithilien lookout, the hiking trail they used to film a scene from The Lord of the Rings, giving you a bit of everything from nature and convenience to the city centre. However, there are no facilities outside of a toilet, so it is more self-sufficient travellers.
What is there to do in Queenstown?
One of the more famous reasons people go to Queenstown outside of nature and skiing is the bungee jumping and skydiving available in the region. I did my first Sky Dive, which you can watch by clicking on the link below. If you are looking for more nature activities, then the best short hike can be found at the Queenstown Hill Walkway. A small. 2-3 hr walk, this path can be found off Belfast Street, a short commute from the city centre that can easily be done on foot.
(Starts off walking through Forest)
(Then makes way to open pathways leading to the top. Look at these mountains)
This walk may be short, but it is still quite challenging at the start of the hike, with 399m in elevation gain, the first portion of the walk is uphill, though it evens out and becomes quite flat and pleasant to walk on, despite some minor hill climbs and inclines the closer you get to the summit. The walk itself offers stunning views of the town and Lake Wakatipu, along a well-maintained track that features trees and numerous shaded areas. Some of the best views can be found at the Basket of Dreams viewpoint, and from there, a 5-minute walk leads to the summit. It is a great way for you to do a hike within the city, have a nice picnic and take in some of the best, most tranquil views for a half-day time killer while you’re in Queenstown. It should be stated that it can get quite windy while you’re up on the summit, so be aware of your belongings as they could blow away at any moment.
(Basket of Dreams)
(The finish point of Queenstown Hill Walkway)
Moke Lake
Furthermore, if you’re seeking another walk in the region, consider one of the more underrated options: Moke Lake. A 25-minute drive from Queenstown, this loop track offers a peaceful and enjoyable stroll around the lake, allowing you to escape the busy city for a while. There’s even the option to camp there, which, although expensive, would make for a memorable experience.
(Moke Lake view from the secret lookout via Leah and Declan)
1.5 in total, the track around the lake is flat for the most part, though it is recommended to attempt this walk when it is dry to make it to the top of the viewpoint, as in winter it can get quite wet and icy, making it quite dangerous. Crossing the wetlands on a small, wooden bridge, you will start following the trail alongside the lakeside’s edge for 2-3 hours, with a slight elevation of 200m once you reach the southern end of the lake. The walk is quite tranquil and easy, where you will have the chance to look at the horseshoe shape of Moke Lake and take in the surrounding mountains and wetlands in a walk that is sure to revitalise you and provide a quick escape from city life for an afternoon. There is a secret viewpoint (the above picture) that is popular among locals, and offers a big payoff, which, full disclaimer, I did not hike up to as I went during winter and its super icy, making it more ideal on summer or warmer days and it would add an extra 1 hour or so to the hike where I did not have enough time. I have gone through my phone, and it appears that any photos that I had of this region are all gone, so I am unable to provide you with any authentic images generated from me. Sorry! 🙁
Onsen Hot Pools
(The Onsen Hot Pools & Day Spa)
Fortunately for me, I was able to finish another activity and had time for this, taking a dip in yet another pool, which was at the Onsen Hot Pools and Day Spa. Situated right outside Shotover Canyon, this popular social media hotspot lets you unwind while easing the fast-paced vibe of Queenstown, relaxing in a naturally unique way. There are a range of options you can choose from when you book, but for a solo visit, I went for the soak only, costing $117 for 1 hour and including a complimentary snack and drink of your choice, enhancing the experience. This was probably my favourite hot spring of the lot, and a must-do if you’re in the area.
Food and Drink spots in Queenstown to visit!
Smiths Craft Beer House
(A tasting board of 6 different beers that you can choose on a board upon arrival)
If you are looking for a nice bar that offers a wide range of craft beer and food, then look no further than Smith’s Craft Beer House. A quaint, vibrant bar, the atmosphere in the bar is quite laidback and spacious, with a ton of different NZ craft beers available, and, for what I can remember (price not available online), you can taste 6 different tap drinks for $35. This is the place for beer lovers to try a range of local beers, as in the picture above, I had a pale ale, cider, two lagers, stout, and APA, where the Stout and one of the lagers were my favourites due to their crisp and light finish and the warm, coffee taste (stout) that isn’t bitter or harsh and not too filling that you may find with Guinness, all of these choices I made were great in their own way and worth indulging in. Smith Craft Beer house offers food and is open from 12 pm-11 pm; if you’re looking for a place to dine at give this place a visit.
Fergburger
(Morning Glory Burger)
It also wouldn’t be a true Queenstown experience if you didn’t try a burger from the famous Fergburger outlet, a true staple of Queenstown that has seen many celebrities, like Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, walk through their store to try it out. If it isn’t for the burgers, then the bar and bakery on either side of the restaurant may pique your interest, with pies, pastries, and sweets all available, making this unique food spot a popular choice that has resulted in over 46,000 Instagram posts with the #Fergburger. Prices range from the Morning Glory ($16.50) to the Bullseye ($26.50), which can be a bit pricey, but it’s still worth a try, especially if you’re just passing through Queenstown. The picture above shows the Morning Glory, my favourite burger I’ve had.
What to do in Glenorchy?
(A resting place on the Glenorchy Walkway)
With my last days in Queenstown closing in, I decided to spend the 2nd last day exploring the quiet town of Glenorchy. Just 45 minutes outside of Queenstown, there isn’t a whole lot to do here, though it is nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, home to many hiking trails and some Middle-earth destinations used in the Lord of the Rings movies. One of these walks I went on was the Glenorchy Walkway, located beside the lake and easy, with no elevation to be found as you stroll along the trail.
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Distance | 5km |
| Track details | Looped Trail |
| Time | 1-2 hours |
| Elevation | 0 (flat) |
There is no real protection to be had, so please bring some warm clothes, hats, and sunscreen, as well as your cameras. Some of the areas found along the trail are amazing, with lots of birds and trees, and the calm water makes the surrounding mountains reflect off the surface. It is both peaceful and easy, making this a great spot to read a book and relax.
(Film Location for The Lord of The Rings (1)
(Film Location for The Lord of The Rings (2)
After my leisurely walk, I tried to map out and visit as many spots of the aforementioned Middle-earth filming locations as possible, with my photos showing at least two of them. However, they’re all spread out, making it quite a drive and task to visit them all. I am also unsure of what scenes some of these locations are in, with hunches and guesses filling my mind. If you’re interested — and I wish I had the time and money to do this — there’s a tour company, the only one with access, that will take you on your little adventure around Arcadia Station, the exact area used to film LOTR, The Hobbit, Wolverine, and Narnia. The price starts at $198 and appears to offer a wealth of insight into the filming process behind The Lord of the LOTR.
After my time in Glenorchy was over, I completed my skydive the next day, then headed to my final destination, driving up to Milford Sound before making my way to Dunedin and finally back to Auckland to sell my car.
Milford Sound
(The beautiful Milford Sound)
And just like that, I had found myself at my last destination, the beautiful and secluded Milford Sound. I had this location high on my list of places to visit while in New Zealand, and the wait was well worth it. Typically referred to as the unofficial 8th wonder of the world, it’s hard to argue with that statement; a magnus opus found in the Fjordland of the South Island, it has been untouched by time and civilisation, making it a truly unique attraction nestled among nature and terrain.
How far from Queenstown is it? There are two ways to access Milford Sound: one way is to fly from Queenstown, which can be a magnificent way to experience the Fiordland National Park, but prices can be found to be anywhere from $640 to $1400, not ideal if you’re on a backpacker’s budget. The other way is to drive, where you should allow for 5 hours to get to your destination in Milford Sound, which allows you to stop at various places, like Te Anau, to take pictures and walk around exploring the national park while you make your way up.
Where can I stay? Unfortunately, there is no free campsites in Milford Sound, with the closest found in Lumsden, Te Anau, 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Milford Sound. If you are looking for a place, I stayed at Milford Sound Lodge, which has a restaurant and is within walking distance of the various activities and very attractions you are there to visit, though it is expensive if you bring along your car, with powered sites costing $100 a night! Please be mindful of this and budget around it accordingly. It should be noted that there is not a whole lot of things to do while in Milford Sound, as it is small, so spending 1-2 nights should be enough.
What Activities are there to do in Milford Sound?
(Milford Sound from a kayaks perspective)
With this national treasure being so equanimous, there are some great opportunities to go and do some walks and hikes, like the Milford Track, touted as ‘the finest walk on earth’. This hike is considered New Zealand’s most famous walk. 4 days in total, this 53-kilometre trail starts at the head of Lake Te Anau and looks like an incredible experience. If hiking isn’t for you, then there is a nature cruise for $127 that is 2 hours In total and equipped with experts on the area, providing you with in-depth commentary while you cruise on the waters of Milford Sound.
(This was one of the best expereince I have had)
(The Milford Sound waterfall)
If you want to do something cool, like I did, then you can kayak on the water, as Rosco’s Milford Kayaks is a touring group that has run tours on the Milford Sound water since 2003. Catering to all levels of kayaking experience, this unforgettable adventure offers you the choice of looping around the middle part of the ocean or discovering hidden gems. The popular Day Safari ($259) and Sunrise Classic ($325) allow you the choice to paddle through and witness some of New Zealand’s best and unspoiled mountain scenery, but it’s 10km and an all-day activity, requiring a moderate level of kayaking experience. The tour managers provide you with all the essential kayaking equipment, but be sure to bring some water along, as you’ll be paddling for a while, plus some swimwear.
(The views from Milford Sound never get old)
If you’re looking for an easy route, then the tour I participated in, the Classic Kayak ($205) offers you a loop around, taking in the amazing sites and is 3-3.5 hours in total; easy going and worth it. This will go down as the 2nd best activity I did while I was on my trip around New Zealand. It offers a great way to get close and personal with this natural wonder and makes it more memorable as you get a nice, intimate group together while the guide provides some knowledgeable insights into Milford Sound that you may not find on any fact plaques found on trails. And, just like that, I was done in Milford Sound, so I made my way back to Picton, though I managed to fit in one last hike within the region.
What hikes are there to do in Milford Sound?
(The opening stages of the Lake Marian walk)
There are a few 4 day hikes you can do, while some half-day hikes, like the Milford Track (water taxi required) are great ways to explore the area. If you are looking for something free and offering a slice of what these other offerings provide, then look at Lake Marian, an incredible walk that I was lucky to participate in.
| Difficulty | Moderate/Hard |
| Distance | 3.1km each way |
| Track details | one way |
| Time | allow for 3 hours |
| Elevation | 695 m |
You can start this walk from Lake Marian Trail Carpark, which will take you across a drawbridge, which takes you across a 20-minute trail going past these incredible waterfalls, then about 1.5 hours until you reach the lake.
(The bridge you cross)
(And the rapid falls; see this and you’re in the right area)
This track can get muddy due to the coming and going traffic, and is quite steep in some sections of the walk, which goes without saying that appropriate footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are required while you journey towards the lake. There are orange arrows that point you in the right direction, though, while it is one of the nicest walks to do in Milford Sound, it can be difficult in sections. The majority of the walk is in forestry, making it incredible, though steep inclines and quick slides make it hard on your knees, so it is not for the faint-hearted.
(The pathway for most of the walk. Rugged and uneven)
(There are orange arrows for you to follow while on the walk, which is helpful)
Aside from all that, this is an alpine lake made from glacier water created by glaciers, making this reflection, like the one found in Mt Taranaki (link my blog here), which makes for an amazing reward once you finish this walk, as it’s so clear and beautiful that it makes it a top-tier photo and one memorable experience to add in your trip of New Zealand.
(The beautiful Lake Marian, so surreal!)
What is there to do in Dunedin?
And just like that, my time in Milford Sound was completed. I made my way down to stay the night at a free campsite before making my way to Bluff, the oldest European settlement full of shipping ports, though it wasn’t the ocean that brought me here; it’s the famous Sterling Point that acts as the Southern end of Highway 1 and has the famous large signpost that depicts the distance to major cities in the world. This also marks my accomplishment of visiting the northernmost and southernmost points in New Zealand.
(Here is the southernmost point of New Zealand!)
On my way to Dunedin, I made a stop at Waipapa Point and Lighthouse, constructed in 1881 after New Zealand’s worst shipping disaster occured. It can get extremely windy here, so hold on to everything and anything. However, it’s a cool little activity to do if you want to break up your drive and enjoy a nice ocean view.
(Here is Waipapa Lighthouse in all its glory)
I proceeded to stay a couple of nights in Dunedin to visit friends and make it easier on myself to drive back up to Picton. While it’s a university town, it has a great history of Scottish settlements here, which translates all over the town once you wander through it. You can visit the only European Castle in New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere when you visit Larnach Castle. For $38, go on a self-guided tour that walks you through the history behind the castle and wander through the gardens and spend an hour or two in this steady and easy-going activity.
(One section of the Castle)
(And another room here that looks like something found in Europe)
Once my time in Dunedin was up, it was one more night in the South Island before heading back to the North Island via the ferry and back to Auckland, where I sold my car and left for home 2 weeks after that. The time I had in New Zealand was truly amazing and an opportunity I am grateful for, as I got to travel around this amazing country. It has a load of different activities and interesting landscapes to explore which make it a must-see country if you find yourself in this part of the world. Thank you for reading, and I hope I can inspire you to follow your dreams and at least travel the world once as there is so much to see and do. Follow me as I aim to release some new content in the world of travel, and until next time;
Leave a Comment