Wanaka Station Park

Shady heritage gardens by the lake, steps from That Wanaka Tree

InsideQueenstown-Lakes District, New Zealand

Overview

A calm, leafy retreat on the edge of Roys Bay, Wanaka Station Park is where locals sneak off when the lakeshore gets swamped by That Wanaka Tree seekers. Think towering sequoias and firs, pockets of lawn perfect for a rug and a book, and quiet paths that drift down to the water.

What You'll See

Mature avenues of giant trees and seasonal color in old garden beds.
A heritage-tinged landscape with remnants of the former station grounds and an orchard feel.
Lakeside steps/paths connecting straight to the shoreline near That Wanaka Tree.

Amenities

Public toilets, picnic tables, and a small play area (swings).
Multiple access points (Homestead Close, Wānaka–Mt Aspiring Rd, Norman Terrace, and the lakefront).
Day-use parking by the park; if the lakeside fills, use the Wānaka–Mt Aspiring Rd car park and stroll in.

A Bit of Backstory

Once part of Wanaka Station, the property ties back to the Sargood family and was gifted to the community in the 1970s. The garden echoes its early-1900s homestead era, including a rose arbor that nods to plantings popular at the time.

Ways to Enjoy It

Spread a picnic under the big trees and let the kids roam the lawns.
Meander the paths to the lake for soft, filtered light and easy photos.
Turn your wander into a longer lakeside stroll toward Glendhu Bay and turn back whenever you like.

Wildlife

Listen for tui and bellbirds in the canopy, and keep an eye out for paradise ducks by the water. You may spot rabbits or hares around the lawns.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (Sep–Nov) brings blossoms; autumn (Mar–May) delivers gold-leaf drama.
Weekday mornings are the quietest; sunset draws photographers to the nearby tree.
Saturday mornings host a community run in the park; come later if you want solitude.

Good to Know

No camping or overnighting on council reserves here—stick to proper campgrounds.
Dogs are welcome under local rules: keep them under control and follow any leash signs.
If you see fruit on old trees, only pick where it’s clearly allowed and leave some for others.

Pros

Shady lawns and grand heritage trees with a historic garden feel
Easy lakeside access just steps from That Wanaka Tree
On-site toilets, picnic tables, and convenient parking

Cons

Lakefront parking can be congested at peak photo times
No camping or overnight parking allowed

Tips

For easier parking, aim for Homestead Close or the Mt Aspiring Rd car park.
Bring a picnic—beyond toilets and tables, facilities are minimal on-site.
Photographers: wander to the shore for soft morning light or sunset color.
If you want peace and quiet, avoid Saturday early morning during the community run.
Illegal camping is enforced here—plan a proper campground for overnights.