Wanaka is a foodie’s paradise, but it’s much more than just a pretty lakeside town. Its unique setting—surrounded by towering mountains, lakes, and lush rainforests—makes for memorable lunch experiences that often combine stunning scenery with local flavors. Whether you’re after a quick picnic by a waterfall or an elegant wine-paired feast, Wanaka has options that cater to all interests. We particularly love the Wanaka to Franz Josef Small-Group Tour for its breathtaking scenery and engaging storytelling, and the Wanaka: E-Bike Ride, Wine Tour, and Lunch Combo for blending outdoor activity with wine tasting. Both offer a taste of the region’s beauty and its culinary delights.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, wine-focused afternoon, the Full Day Classic Wine Tour provides a deep dive into local vineyards paired with a gourmet lunch. For a full-day adventure that combines hiking with gourmet dining, the Private Rob Roy Glacier Guided Hike Lunch offers an unbeatable alpine experience. Each of these tours offers something different, promising memorable meals amid some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of small-group scenic tours, e-bike wine adventures, full-day wine tastings, and guided glacier hikes that include a delicious lunch. Each provides a distinctive way to enjoy Wanaka’s natural beauty and its culinary offerings. Explore the details below to find the experience that fits your style and interests perfectly.
1. Wanaka to Franz Josef Small-Group Tour (One Way) Includes Lunch
At number 1, this 8-hour scenic journey takes you from Wanaka to Franz Josef with multiple stops that showcase some of the region’s best sights, including Lake Hawea, Blue Pools, and Thunder Creek Falls. The tour is fully guided, with a small group for a more intimate experience, and includes a delicious lunch at a local spot in Haast. The company’s reputation for passionate guides and rich storytelling makes this more than just a transfer—it’s a sightseeing adventure with a meal.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of stunning landscapes and cultural insight. You’ll get photo stops at iconic sites like the Wanaka Tree, and the journey itself winds through mountains, rainforests, and coastal beaches. The included lunch at the Hard Antler pub in Haast adds genuine Kiwi hospitality to the day, making this a perfect choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic experience with good food.
Bottom line: This one-way trip offers excellent value, combining spectacular scenery with a hearty local lunch. Ideal for those with flexible schedules wanting a taste of both Wanaka’s surroundings and the West Coast.
$177.14 per person
2. Wanaka: E-Bike Ride, Wine Tour, and Lunch Combo
At number 2, this full-day adventure combines outdoor activity and wine tasting for a truly relaxing yet lively experience. The tour kicks off with an e-bike ride from Hawea to Wanaka, offering panoramic views of lakes and mountains, and then continues with visits to three of Wanaka’s top wineries. Each winery provides a tasting session, and the day culminates with a 3-course barrel-cooked banquet.
What makes this experience unique is its seamless blend of active exploration and gastronomic indulgence. The scenic e-bike ride is easy enough for most, and the wine tastings are led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the terroir and wine-making process. The highlight, a locally prepared lunch, elevates the day from casual to memorable.
Reviewers often mention how well the experience balances adventure and luxury. One noted, “The perfect way to enjoy Wanaka’s scenery and good wine without feeling rushed.”
Bottom line: Ideal for wine lovers or those wanting a gentle outdoor activity paired with a gourmet meal. It’s a balanced, enjoyable tour that rewards both the eyes and palate.
$234 per person
3. Wanaka: Full Day Classic Wine Tour with Lunch
Number 3 on our list offers an in-depth taste of Central Otago’s best wines. This 7-hour tour visits six boutique vineyards, where you can sample up to 30 wines. The highlight is a gourmet 5-course lunch paired with some of the region’s finest wines, making it a true wine enthusiast’s dream.
This small-group experience ensures a personalized introduction to the region’s wine culture. The focus is on quality over quantity, with plenty of time to savor each glass and learn from expert guides. The scenic drives through mountain scenery and vineyards add to the overall charm, turning a tasting into a full culture.
Critics praise the tour for its intimate atmosphere and high-quality food-wine pairing, with one saying, “The 5-course lunch was a highlight—delicious food and wines that complemented each other perfectly.”
Bottom line: Best suited for serious wine fans or those wanting a luxurious, educational experience in a small-group setting.
$222 per person
4. Wānaka: Private Rob Roy Glacier Guided Hike Lunch
This 6-hour private guided hike takes you into Mount Aspiring National Park for unforgettable glacier views. You’ll cross the West Matukituki Valley, hike above the Rob Roy Canyon, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of glaciers and waterfalls. The tour includes a packed lunch served at a scenic viewpoint where you can soak up the landscape.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized guiding experience. The guide shares insights into the glacier’s history and geology, making it not just a walk but an educational journey. The hike is suitable for those with decent fitness levels, and the round-trip transfers from Wanaka make it seamless.
A key highlight is the gourmet lunch with views of the glacier, making this a special treat for outdoor lovers who want to combine hiking and gourmet food. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and engagement throughout.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers seeking an exclusive, scenic hike with a delicious meal. It offers an authentic wilderness experience.
$346 per person
5. Wanaka: Rob Roy Glacier Guided Hike with Lunch
Next up, this 8-hour guided tour explores Rob Roy Glacier with a scenic drive and walk. Starting with a drive around Lake Wanaka and into the Matukituki Valley, you’ll see stunning vistas before crossing a swing bridge and walking into a beech rainforest.
The tour’s highlight is reaching the Rob Roy Glacier, where you’ll stop for a gourmet picnic lunch. The tour is well-suited for those who want to combine a hike and scenic drive with a high-quality meal amid dramatic scenery.
Guests rave about the stunning views of the glacier and the gourmet lunch that makes the effort worthwhile. The guide shares insights about the area’s flora and fauna, enriching the experience.
Bottom line: A rewarding outing for those who enjoy hiking, wildlife, and scenic beauty, coupled with a delicious meal in the mountains.
$246 per person
6. Wanaka to Franz Josef Small Group 1 Way Tour with Lunch
Number 6 offers a comprehensive scenic trip from Wanaka to Franz Josef, with highlights like Lake Matheson and the Blue Pools, plus a lunch at the Hard Antler in Haast. It’s similar to the first tour but emphasizes the passage along lush rainforests and the coastal dunes of Ship Creek.
This journey is ideal for travelers who want to experience the diverse landscapes of the West Coast in comfort. The small group format allows for more personalized attention, and the included lunch adds a nice touch of local flavor.
This tour is highly recommended for those who enjoy scenery-focused outings with a good meal to round out the day. It’s a more relaxed, day-long option that showcases the region’s natural diversity.
Bottom line: Excellent value for travelers wanting a scenic, all-inclusive transfer with a meal in a relaxed setting.
$170 per person
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Wanaka
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a scenic drive with a hearty lunch, the Wanaka to Franz Josef tours are perfect. For a combination of outdoor activity and wine tasting, the E-Bike & Wine Combo is ideal. Serious wine lovers should opt for the full-day wine tour with extensive tastings and a gourmet meal.
If you’re an adventurous hiker, the Rob Roy Glacier hikes are hard to beat—particularly if you want a gourmet picnic in the mountains. For those with limited time, a scenic one-way tour offers a taste of everything without the commitment of a full day.
Booking early is recommended, especially during the busy summer months. Check which tours fit your schedule, fitness level, and taste—Wanaka’s diverse options will ensure a memorable lunchtime, whatever you choose.
Final Thoughts
Wanaka’s lunch options go well beyond ordinary fare. From scenic drives with food stops to wine tastings paired with gourmet meals, there’s a perfect experience for every traveler. If you’re after a breathtaking landscape and hearty local food, the Wanaka to Franz Josef Small-Group Tour is hard to beat. For a relaxed, indulgent afternoon, the full-day wine tour offers a luxurious taste of Central Otago. And for those seeking adventure and scenery combined with a tasty meal, the Rob Roy Glacier hikes promise a memorable day.
Whatever your interest, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these exceptional lunch experiences in Wanaka. Pack your appetite and your sense of adventure—Wanaka is ready to serve up unforgettable moments.