What is "wanaka"

Wanaka is a popular ski and summer resort town in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka, at the start of the Clutha River. It is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.

Wanaka is primarily a resort town but has both summer and winter seasons. Its economy is based on the many outdoor opportunities this offers. The town was originally settled during the gold rush of the 19th century. Along with the rest of the Queenstown-Lakes District, it is growing rapidly, with the population increasing by 50% between 2005 and 2015.