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New Zealand In Depth is working with eco-tourism experts at Eco Wanaka Adventures to allow guests to experience “a lake on an island, on a lake on an island”.
Lake Wanaka is a 74-square-mile mass of water, the fourth largest lake in New Zealand. In the middle of the lake sits the Mou Waho Island, which is home to its own lake, the Arethusa Pool.
“The island of Mou Waho is now a predator-free reserve and home to the rare flightless Buff Weka which has been extinct on the mainland since 1920,” said Paul Carberry, founder of New Zealand In Depth. “It is a magical island that takes you right into the heart of nature – and at the heart of it all is the lake on the island, on the lake on the island.”
The adventure with New Zealand In Depth starts with a 25-minute boat trip from Wanaka over to the Mou Waho Island and nature reserve where guests embark on a one-hour guided bush walk to the lake at the top of the island.
The trip continues with “High Tea” on top of the island overlooking both lakes, where guests can have a drink and enjoy the panorama of the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park.
To finish the trip, guests will have the chance to participate in conservation efforts by planting a native tree giving back to New Zealand’s environment.
“An immersive natural paradise”
“This is one of those bucket list adventures that many New Zealanders hope to achieve, and you can see why,” added Carberry. “The trip lasts around three and a half hours in total and transports you to an immersive natural paradise. If you’re lucky, you’ll even meet the friendly local pair of Buff Weka called Sally and Wally.”
The adventure to Mou Waho Island and its famous lake can be added to any personalised trip to the region. A 14-day self-drive New Zealand adventure costs from GBP 2,400 (USD 3,043) per person, based on two people travelling. This includes B&B accommodation, all breakfasts, car hire and Eco Wanaka Cruise and Nature Island Walk to Mou Waho Island. Not including flights.
