Wanaka

This was a great way to spend half a day. I did it solo and it was wonderful to have time at the lake and at the lookout all to myself. You really do feel like nobody else is around (even though you see the odd person travelling up or down the trail path). The views are breathtaking and you get an excellent workout hiking up to the lookout. You also learn about the geology and history of the island and Wanaka generally on the way out to the island. A little tip - bring insect repellent with you and wear closed shoes and socks as there are sandflies on the island. You do need a moderate level of fitness to hike to the top as it is intense in places and some parts of the path are very rocky but it all adds to the experience!