Shepherd's Lookout - Boat & Hike Tour

Leave the crowds behind and discover a hidden side of Lake Wānaka on this scenic, self-guided walk with Wanaka Water Taxi. Enjoy a 20-minute cruise across the lake to the remote shores of Stevenson’s Arm — a privately accessed area only reachable by boat and not open to the public.

From the shoreline, follow a gentle lakeside farm track beneath Mount Burke before turning onto a narrow uphill bush trail through mānuka. The walk leads to two scenic lookouts with sweeping views across Lake Wānaka, Mou Waho Island, and the surrounding alpine ranges. The upper lookout is optional.

The track then descends to a secluded bay where you’ll have time to relax, picnic, or swim before your return water taxi ride back to Wānaka.

This self-guided experience lets you explore at your own pace along historic trails once used by shepherds on Mount Burke Station. Guided walks are available on request.

Highlights

• 
  

  20-minute Wanaka Water Taxi cruise each way

  
  


• 
  

  Private boat-only access to Mt Burke Station

  
  


• 
  

  Approx. 4-5 km easy to moderate walk with optional lookout climb

  
  


• 
  

  Stunning lake, alpine, and island views

  
  


• 
  

  Time to relax, picnic, and swim

  
  


• 
  

  3.5-hour experience

  
  


• 
  

  Self-guided (guided on request)