Mou Waho Island

Mou Waho Island is a predator-free reserve on Lake Wānaka, known for its “island on a lake on an island” at Arethusa Pool. Reachable by boat from Wānaka, it offers well-marked trails to a ridge with wide views of the Southern Alps and the lake. Native birds such as buff weka roam freely, and ongoing restoration showcases indigenous plants. The outing suits half-day trips for walkers of moderate fitness; there are some steep sections and limited shelter. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet scenery, wildlife encounters, and a distinctive geological feature without crowds.