Thinking about moving to Wanaka? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Wanaka.
Wanaka, a picturesque town in the South Island of New Zealand, is a place that many people dream of calling home. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by stunning mountains, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. But like any place, living in Wanaka has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into what makes this town a dream come true for some, and a challenge for others.
Pros of Living in Wanaka
One of the biggest draws to Wanaka is its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the Southern Alps, providing breathtaking views from virtually every corner. The crystal-clear Lake Wanaka offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the nearby Mount Aspiring National Park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.
Wanaka is also a hub for adventure sports. In winter, the town transforms into a ski resort, with Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. In summer, the focus shifts to water sports, mountain biking, and hiking. For adrenaline junkies, there’s skydiving, bungee jumping, and jet boating.
Despite its small size, Wanaka has a vibrant community spirit. The town hosts several events throughout the year, including the Wanaka A&P Show, a celebration of rural life with livestock shows, trade exhibits, and entertainment. There’s also the Festival of Colour, a biennial arts festival featuring local and international performers. Volunteering opportunities abound, with organizations like the Wanaka Tree Planting Club and the Wanaka Conservation Group always looking for help.
Wanaka’s education system is another plus. The town has several highly-rated schools, including Wanaka Primary School and Mount Aspiring College. There’s also a strong emphasis on outdoor education, with many schools offering programs that take advantage of the town’s natural surroundings.
Finally, Wanaka offers a slower pace of life. The town is small and relatively quiet, especially compared to larger cities like Auckland or Wellington. This makes it an ideal place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cons of Living in Wanaka, New Zealand
While Wanaka has many positives, it’s not without its drawbacks. One of the biggest challenges is the cost of living. Wanaka is one of the most expensive places to live in New Zealand, with high housing prices and a high cost of goods and services. This can make it difficult for those on a lower income to make ends meet.
The town’s popularity as a tourist destination can also be a double-edged sword. While tourism brings in revenue and creates jobs, it also leads to overcrowding, especially during peak seasons. This can put a strain on local resources and infrastructure, and can detract from the town’s peaceful atmosphere.
Wanaka’s remote location can also be a challenge. The nearest city, Queenstown, is an hour’s drive away, and the nearest international airport is in Christchurch, a five-hour drive. This can make it difficult to access certain services and amenities, and can make travel more challenging.
While Wanaka has a strong community spirit, it can be difficult for newcomers to break into social circles. The town’s small size means that everyone knows everyone, which can be intimidating for those not used to small-town life. However, joining local clubs and organizations can be a good way to meet people and become part of the community.
Finally, while Wanaka’s weather is generally mild, it can be unpredictable. Winters can be cold and snowy, making travel difficult, while summers can be hot and dry, increasing the risk of wildfires. However, for those who love the changing seasons, this can be part of the town’s charm.
In conclusion, Wanaka is a town of contrasts. Its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and community spirit make it an attractive place to live, but its high cost of living, tourist crowds, and remote location can be challenging. However, for those who value a slower pace of life and a close-knit community, the pros may well outweigh the cons.
