Lake Wanaka: Mou Waho Island Water Taxi & Freedom Walk

Summary

Boat ride to Mou Waho Island with native birds, lake views and a wild freedom walk

You’ll hop a water taxi from Wanaka Marina for a breezy ride up Lake Wanaka with live local commentary. Walk steep trails on Mou Waho Island among curious weka birds, then catch wild views over Arethusa Pool and surrounding peaks before heading back—don’t be surprised if you want to linger longer than planned.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever seen an island on a lake on an island?" our skipper grinned as we pushed off from Wanaka Marina. I’d barely had time to answer before the water taxi picked up speed, wind tugging at my jacket and the lake throwing back these crazy blue reflections. The boat cut past Mou Tapu Island and those steep cliffs at Fisherman’s Cove—honestly, I didn’t expect the air to smell so sharp out here, almost like wet stone and pine needles. Our guide, Pete (who’s lived here since forever), started pointing out glacier marks on the hillsides and told us about how the whole valley was carved out ages ago. He had this way of making geology sound like gossip.

Landing at Mou Waho Island felt different—quiet but not empty. There were these little weka birds poking around, totally unbothered by us. Pete warned us they’d try to steal snacks if we weren’t careful (he was right). The walk up is steeper than it looks—my legs definitely noticed—but you get these sudden glimpses of Lake Wanaka through the trees that make you stop for a second, just to catch your breath or maybe just because it’s kind of unreal. At the top, there’s this pool (Arethusa Pool) sitting right above the big lake below—so yeah, an island on a lake on an island on a lake… I’m still not sure I’ve got it straight.

You get about 1.5 hours to wander around Mou Waho at your own pace—which is more time than I thought I’d want but honestly, I could’ve stayed longer. Some people skipped the climb and just hung out by the shore watching the water taxi bob around; nobody seemed in any rush. On the way back, Pete shared a story about early Māori travelers crossing these waters—I wish I remembered all the details but something about it stuck with me anyway. The sun hit the peaks just right as we headed home and yeah, that view is still in my head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mou Waho Island water taxi tour

• Meet on the jetty
• Boat 15km up Lake Wanaka
• Listen to skipper's geology talk
• Pass Mou Tapu Island and Fisherman's Cove
• Arrive at Mou Waho Island nature reserve
• Walk to island top for panoramic views
• Explore island for 1.5 hours

Top questions

How long does the Mou Waho Island tour take?

The trip includes a 15km boat ride each way plus 1.5+ hours exploring Mou Waho Island; total duration varies based on group pace.

Is there hotel pickup for this Lake Wanaka tour?

No hotel pickup is included; tours depart from Wanaka Marina jetty.

Can you skip the uphill walk on Mou Waho Island?

Yes, guests can stay near the shore while others do the optional steep walk to the top.

Are children allowed on this water taxi tour?

Yes, infants must sit on an adult's lap; suitable for all fitness levels except those with walking disabilities for the uphill section.

What wildlife might you see on Mou Waho Island?

Mou Waho is home to native New Zealand birds including flightless weka that often approach visitors.

Does this day trip include lunch or snacks?

No regular meals are included except on Christmas Day when there’s a picnic; bring your own snacks if needed.

Is public transportation available near Wanaka Marina?

Yes, public transport options are available nearby for easy access to departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes all landing and facility fees for Mou Waho Island, live commentary from your local skipper during both legs of the boat ride across Lake Wanaka, and at least 1.5 hours of free time to explore or relax on the island before returning by water taxi in the afternoon.