DocentPro
MOBILE APPBLOGFAQsGet App

Save places from Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and more

That Wānaka tree 1
That Wānaka tree 2
That Wānaka tree 3
That Wānaka tree 4
That Wānaka tree 5

That Wānaka tree

attraction

Attraction

star

4.5 (5815 reviews)

A solitary, crooked crack willow tree sits alone on Lake Wanaka, backdropped by the Southern Alps.

Roys Bay 59 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand

+64 3 441 0700

Did You Know?
6 facts
Willow
Tree Species

That Wānaka Tree is a solitary willow tree (Salix fragilis) that has grown out of Lake Wānaka, making it a unique sight.

Iconic
Photography Hotspot

It has become one of New Zealand's most photographed trees, attracting photographers and tourists from all over the world, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Lone
Standing in Water

The tree famously grows directly out of the lake, often appearing to be floating, which contributes to its surreal and captivating appearance.

50+
Years Old

While its exact age isn't precisely known, it's estimated that the willow tree has been growing in the lake for over 50 years, becoming a natural landmark over time.

Highlights from Reviews

• picturesque scenery

The tree's location in Lake Wanaka with a backdrop of mountains offers breathtaking views, ideal for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

• iconic landmark

That Wanaka Tree is a widely recognized symbol of New Zealand, making it a must-see for many visitors to the region.

• peaceful atmosphere

Despite potential crowds, many visitors found the spot to be calm and serene, offering a meditative experience by the lake.

• easy accessibility

The tree is easily reachable via a short, flat walk from the car park, making it convenient for all visitors.

• unique natural wonder

Its unusual growth from a fence post into a solitary tree in the lake makes it a unique and interesting sight.

Featured in
New Zealand's South Island Road Trip Highlights
@wanderingaunt
New Zealand's South Island Road Trip Highlights
Roys Peak, Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki
New Zealand's Diverse Landscapes and Cultural Experiences
approachtours.com
New Zealand's Diverse Landscapes and Cultural Experiences
Auckland, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington
South Island Road Trip: Nature, Hikes, and Eateries
@thebay.and.away
South Island Road Trip: Nature, Hikes, and Eateries
Skyline Queenstown, Queenstown, Arrowtown
Wanaka's Best Outdoor Adventures and Family Fun
@biglittlecampers
Wanaka's Best Outdoor Adventures and Family Fun
Treble Cone Ski Area, Basecamp Wanaka Climbing Centre, Roys Peak
New Zealand Road Trip Attractions and Stays
@explorefordays
New Zealand Road Trip Attractions and Stays
Skyline Queenstown, All Blacks Experience, Wellington Botanic Garden
New Zealand Cities, Culture, Cafes, and Nature
@ini_globista
New Zealand Cities, Culture, Cafes, and Nature
Skyline Queenstown, Sky Tower, Main Town Pier
Top South Island Experiences For A Kiwi Road Trip
@global.and.beyond.travel
Top South Island Experiences For A Kiwi Road Trip
Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka
New Zealand's Best Natural Wonders and Tourist Spots
@pjgtravels
New Zealand's Best Natural Wonders and Tourist Spots
Auckland, Queenstown, Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
South Island New Zealand: Scenic and Adventure Itinerary
@somewhattravellers
South Island New Zealand: Scenic and Adventure Itinerary
Queenstown, Arrowtown, Shotover Jet Queenstown
South Island New Zealand: A 17-Day Scenic Adventure
@jia_wen0413
South Island New Zealand: A 17-Day Scenic Adventure
Skyline Queenstown, Arrowtown, New Regent Street
South Island New Zealand Adventure: Wanaka to Queenstown
@journeyswithkris
South Island New Zealand Adventure: Wanaka to Queenstown
Gibbston Valley Winery & Restaurant, Fiordland National Park, Wānaka
New Zealand's Must-See Destinations for an Epic Trip
@getlostwithliam
New Zealand's Must-See Destinations for an Epic Trip
Queenstown, Wānaka, Christchurch