Wānaka to 
the world

Lake Wānaka Tourism plays a pivotal role in promoting the region, managing tourism impacts, and enhancing visitor experiences. As the official Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO), its digital presence needed to not only inspire travellers but also provide seamless trip-planning tools that support the local tourism ecosystem.

The Challenge

In the initial discovery phase of this project, it was clear the existing website no longer met the evolving needs of the region. It required a modern, user-friendly experience that effectively showcased Wānaka’s landscapes, activities, and businesses while ensuring seamless integration with booking systems. The challenge was to balance inspiration with practicality, making it easier for visitors to explore, plan, and book their ideal Wānaka experience.

The Solution

Through collaborative workshops, audience insights and key project goals were defined - shaping a strategic digital approach tailored to visitor needs. The clean, visually striking design was developed based on this strategy, ensuring that stunning imagery and essential travel information were presented in a way that was both engaging and easy to navigate.

The new website prioritises user experience, featuring interactive elements like maps and tailored search functionalities that streamline trip planning. Seamless integration with booking platforms allows visitors to book accommodation, activities, and experiences directly, driving conversion for local tourism operators. Behind the scenes, a custom WordPress solution was implemented, giving the Lake Wānaka Tourism team complete control over content management and SEO, ensuring the site remains dynamic and adaptable.

The Results

The revamped website delivers on both inspiration and functionality, providing a seamless, engaging, and practical resource for travellers. It enhances the visitor experience, strengthens connections with local tourism providers, and positions Wānaka as a must-visit destination.

Four years on, this partnership continues to evolve with Lake Wānaka Tourism continuing regular digital support, ensuring the platform stays dynamic and responsive to changing tourism needs. Ongoing site improvements, new digital initiatives, and additional projects keep the experience fresh and future-proofed, maintaining Wānaka’s reputation as a world-class destination.

By balancing aesthetics with usability, the platform ensures that visitors don’t just dream about Wānaka they start planning their journey.