Discover one of Lake Wānaka’s most remarkable hidden gems on a Mou Waho Island Cruise & Nature Walk. Step aboard the comfortable 11-metre super water taxi, Moutimu, and enjoy a smooth cruise with a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper as you journey across the sparkling waters of Lake Wānaka, surrounded by majestic alpine scenery. Accessible only by boat, Mou Waho Island is a protected, predator-free Department of Conservation (DOC) nature reserve and home to the famous “lake on an island, in a lake, on an island”—a rare natural phenomenon found in few places around the world.

Upon arriving on the island, join a two-hour guided nature walk through native bush and pristine landscapes. Accompanied by an experienced guide, hike to the island’s natural glacial lake at the summit before continuing to Lookout Rock, where some of the region’s most spectacular mountain and lake views await. Along the way, learn about the island’s unique ecology, geology, Māori and colonial history, and conservation efforts that have helped protect rare wildlife, including the flightless Buff Weka, which has been extinct on mainland New Zealand since 1920, the Mountain Stone Weta, and many native bird species.

Every visit contributes to ongoing conservation work on Mou Waho Island and elsewhere across Aotearoa, making this experience both meaningful and memorable. Combining breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and exclusive access to one of Lake Wānaka’s most treasured nature reserves, this cruise and guided walk offer an unforgettable connection with the natural beauty and conservation story of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.