The area known as stage two of the Lakefront Development Plan has been a popular spot for visitors and locals over summer.

Stage two runs along the lakefront from Mt Aspiring carpark to the Wānaka CBD and was opened in August 2022. It features a four-metre wide promenade, grassed areas and feature gardens.

“It brings absolute joy to me to see so many people interacting with the lakefront,” Reset Urban Design director Linda Joll said.

Linda’s company created the landscape masterplan for the lakefront.

“The shared pathway has been widely used by cyclists, walkers, people lounging on the grass or rocks, the furniture all being used; it's been great to see how this simple yet grand, understated design has been appreciated by the people,” she said.

The development includes a four-metre wide shared pathway and large grassed areas.

Linda (who is also a member of the Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board) said the development has delivered on what was envisioned; “a not fussy understated space within the landscape”.

Visitors say they are also enjoying the space. 

The Wānaka App met Swedish tourists sitting at the picnic benches who were delighted to be able to sit at the lake’s edge and enjoy the view.

“I think this is really nice, you can walk on this path along the lake and sit here and enjoy everything,” Anna, a member of the group, said.

“It’s perfect.”

Stage two’s initial plans were approved by  the Wānaka Community Board in November 2020 with a budget of $2.8M. 

By the time final detailed designs were completed and approved 18 months later the budget had escalated to over $4.14M.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App