Unforgettable Mou Waho Island: Wanaka's Exclusive Water Taxi Tour
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Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks. Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters. Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island. Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
GeneralShamu, 12/9/2025 11:16:26 PM
This tour was absolutely worth it. Our guide/skipper, Hannah, was great as well. The boat has no toilets but there are toilets located at the pier and also on the island (two drop toilets). The island itself has a stunning beauty to it and the walk up to the two viewing points is an absolute must. Note that to get off the pier onto the island there is currently a loose wooden plank that you must walk across. We were not expecting this and, while manageable, something that needs to be addressed. We did it with a toddler strapped to us in a carrier while the other carried a backpack with all the supplies (heavy).
Travel49512836346, 12/2/2025 2:39:19 PM
A really fun and informative trip on Lake Wanaka on a beautiful day. Hannah had good information about the islands, the wildlife, the history of the area and she was chatty and friendly. The island stop itself was spectacular. Amazing views, sensational setting and we even managed a swim in the glacial, freezing water, which looked so inviting and clear. Would definitely recommend!
TerryB882, 11/22/2025 2:37:00 AM
A truly fantastic experience. We weren't sure what to expect but the trip surpassed all expectations, and then some. Brent was so knowledgeable and shared information without rushing, taking time to point out areas of interest. Mou Waho island was a complete surprise and such wonderful views although it was a strenuous walk but so worth it when you got there. Stupendous views in every direction. Brent allowed us plenty of time to explore on our own. A truly memorable experience, highly recommended.
lesleybG9623XQ, 11/21/2025 8:13:41 PM
We had a great time on this activity. The water taxi was on time and the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. Lots of information on the various islands and Wanaka in general. Once we arrived at the island, we were given very clear instructions on how to get to the top and also what time pick up was. The hike was a constant uphill, but it was easily managed. We are reasonably fit. There was plenty of time to take the walk more slowly if needed. The water taxi also supplied hiking poles if people wished to use them. There were plenty of viewing stops on the way up. Take your own food and water as none available on the island. The views from the top were amazing. A lake, on an island, on a lake on an island. Loved it.
R8918OEkirstyf, 11/20/2025 1:19:36 AM
Amazing! Our skipper, Hannah, was fantastic and shared a lot of information about the area. The trip across to the island was really enjoyable and the water taxi was prompt & efficient
jodys532, 11/17/2025 3:22:22 AM
What a fun adventure to Mou Waho with Hannah and Wanaka water taxi! Hannah was a fantastic guide and skipper. She provided excellent information about the region, conservation notes and fun historical facts. The hike to the lake and look out in Mou Wago was a highlight of our trip. The water taxi was comfortable, providing excellent shelter from the wind and splash. I highly recommend Wanaka water taxi and ask for Hannah to guide you to Mou Waho!
Sharon T, 11/17/2025 2:12:39 AM
Hannah was our skipper for our trip and she was excellent. Very friendly and knowledgeable. It was a lovely trip and we learnt so much about the conservation and the history of Wanaka. Had a swim in the lake inside the lake. Hannah definately made it very enjoyable with her sunny personality. Thank you.
Ann Margaret E, 11/16/2025 4:29:34 AM
We had a great time today! Thank you Hannah for a wonderful excursion! The commentary on the trip over was great! We loved learning more about the history of the area. Hannah is a wonderful Skipper and the visit to the island was so chill and relaxing. Highly recommend this activity!
zitavskeho, 11/13/2025 2:01:17 PM
We were somehow disappointed by this excursion. It represents a boat trip to the island with some broad explanations of the skipper and then drop off where you can freely walk on the island. The lake on the island is impressive but that’s all and not worth the price and the time. The skipper remains in the boat and will not show you around for birds and these are difficult to spot. This is too expensive for what it is worth.
S6675NTkk, 11/13/2025 3:25:10 AM
It was a wonderful trip! The boat ride out was education and fun. Visiting the Island was beautiful and the views were outstanding. There was plenty of time to see both sites and sit to enjoy a quick picnic lunch. Being in our sixties, some parts of the paths were steep, but if you take your time you get there. It was well worth the trek.
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum numbers apply
- A 20/30 minute walk up hill is involved. (Optional)
- Due to uneven surfaces and the steepness in places, the walk is not recommended for those with walking disabilities but they are more than welcome to join us on the boat trip and skip the walk and stay at the bottom of the island.
Departure point
We depart from the newer jetty with the silver bridge in the Wanaka Marina. Parking in the marina is on the sealed area only. If this is full, you can drive 200m past the marina to where the road splits and you can park on the left side of both roads right after the split.Return details
Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks. Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters. Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island. Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.Redemption
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended • There is a toilet on the island but nothing else. It can be very hot during the summer, bring sunscreen and some water. • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund. This also applies when the trip has to be cancelled due to bad weather.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund











