Connecting businesses and growing opportunities together
Mō tātou, ā mō kā uri, ā muri ake nei.
For us and our children after us.
The future of tourism in the Queenstown Lakes is regenerative and resilient, delivering benefits environmentally, socially, culturally and economically, enriching the lives of the people who live here and the people who visit.
About Us
Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT) is a regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) responsible for destination marketing as well as destination management.
Lake Wānaka Tourism is predominantly funded by a tourism levy, determined as a percentage of the commercial and accommodation rate, and collected by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) on behalf of Lake Wānaka Tourism. Members are either commercial ratepayers or businesses who pay a subscription levy.
Lake Wānaka Tourism also wholly owns the Wānaka isite Visitor Centre.
Lake Wānaka Tourism is predominantly funded by a tourism levy, determined as a percentage of the commercial and accommodation rate, and collected by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) on behalf of Lake Wānaka Tourism. Members are either commercial ratepayers or businesses who pay a subscription levy.
Lake Wānaka Tourism also wholly owns the Wānaka isite Visitor Centre.
History
Wānaka’s story is one of exploration, resilience, and deep connection to the land. From the earliest days, when the ancestors of Waitaha arrived on the Uruao waka as the first people of Te Waipounamu (South Island), to the generations of Kāi Tahu Whānui who have lived with, from, and across the land, this place has been shaped by those who call it home.
European explorers, such as Nathaniel Chalmers, and later gold prospectors were drawn to Wānaka’s striking alpine landscapes and the promise of opportunity. Over time, the region has evolved from a quiet holiday retreat into a thriving hub for outdoor adventure—offering world-class skiing, hiking, biking, designer stores, galleries and an incredible food and wine scene .
In 1993, Lake Wānaka Tourism was established to promote the region and support its visitor economy. Over the years, the organisation has evolved, balancing growth with a deep commitment to long term sustainability – economically, environmentally, culturally and socially.
European explorers, such as Nathaniel Chalmers, and later gold prospectors were drawn to Wānaka’s striking alpine landscapes and the promise of opportunity. Over time, the region has evolved from a quiet holiday retreat into a thriving hub for outdoor adventure—offering world-class skiing, hiking, biking, designer stores, galleries and an incredible food and wine scene .
In 1993, Lake Wānaka Tourism was established to promote the region and support its visitor economy. Over the years, the organisation has evolved, balancing growth with a deep commitment to long term sustainability – economically, environmentally, culturally and socially.
Be a part of the journey