Our Story
Many moons ago, the Waitaha tribe journeyed to Wānaka in their large canoe, or Waka, led by Chief Rākaihautū. Legend has it he created Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountains with his paddle during his exploration of the South Island. The area became a place of wānanga, a place of learning, for the Waitaha tribe to pass on the sacred knowledge of their genealogies.
Fast forward to the 1970’s, a 4-hectare block of land was recognised as an excellent location for a hotel with uninterrupted views down to the lake’s edge — and so ‘Edgewater Lake Wānaka’ came to life. Promoted as unique real estate with access to some of the world's most beautiful natural terrain, the hotel was invested in by 57 shareholders which included 65 titles, covering a total of 106 rooms.
Our stunning surroundings immediately compel those who visit to quite simply slow down and take it all in... at nature’s pace.
Edgewater, Wanaka’s second hotel to be established in 100 years, opened for business in July 1986 following an inauguration ceremony by the then Minster of Tourism, Rt Hon Mike Moore. Edgewater became a popular local watering hole in the 1990s, the place to watch an All Blacks Game, host a snow ball and the ultimate venue to welcome in the New Year!
As visitors flocked to capture our majestic landscape, here at Edgewater we have come almost full circle in the most recent years. We notice that modern travellers and locals alike are craving a slower pace now more than ever, and we believe our stunning surroundings immediately compel those who visit to quite simply slow down and take it all in... at nature‘s pace.
Our Hotel
Facilities
- 9-hole putting green
- Children’s playground
- Mountain bikes for hire
- Petanque
- Spa pools and sauna
- Two all-weather tennis courts
Amenities
- On-site Concierge
- Heli-landing pad
- Free car parking, many directly outside your room
- Hotel-wide free WiFi internet access
Treat yourself during your stay
Feel like pampering yourself during your stay? Pop in and see the team at Silver Sixpence. From facials to massages, their talented team has you covered.
Talk to our team if you would like book a treatment during your stay with us, and they can help you arrange transport to and from your appointment.
Silver Sixpence
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri
9am – 8pm
Saturday
9am – 5pm
Sunday
appointment only
I have never been to Wānaka before. What should I do?
Wānaka has a lot to offer all guests, no matter your interests or experience. Our onsite concierge, George Smythe, is happy to pre-arrange sightseeing before you arrive, or provide assistance during your visit. Please contact George directly by email, or see George at his concierge station in our lobby.
Alternatively, check our various seasonal events for ideas or review Wānaka’s most popular activities here.
Do you arrange transportation from Queenstown Airport?
We can recommend and arrange transportation from Queenstown International Airport to Edgewater Resort Hotel. Direct drive time is approximately 1 hour. Transfer charges apply. We also offer guests the service of helicopter transfer between Queenstown International Airport and Edgewater in Wānaka directly. There is a heli-landing area at Edgewater.
Do I need travel insurance when traveling in New Zealand?
We recommend that you ensure you have travel insurance to suit your personal situation and circumstances. Depending on your policy conditions you may be able to claim in the event of an expected situation.
What happens if I cancel my room booking?
Cancellation within 72 hours prior to arrival will incur a fee for the first night's accommodation rate. "No Show" will result in a fee for the first night and any subsequent nights will be released for re-sale.
Non-refundable rates are non-refundable. If you are unsure of your plans please book a flexible rate which would allow you to cancel more than 72 hours prior to arrival.
Where can I park my car and are there any charges?
We have complimentary car parking around the resort in good proximity to the rooms.
Are there any discounts available for group bookings?
Please call reservations directly on 0800 108 311 or via email ([email protected]) to discuss your needs. Group benefits are offered depending on the size of the group and duration of stay.
Do you have any accessible rooms?
We cater for guests with wheelchairs however please let us know at the time of reservation.
Is wi-fi available and what is the cost?
Free wi-fi is available at Edgewater Wanaka, both in the rooms and in the lounge/restaurant areas.
What payment methods does Edgewater Hotel accept?
We accept payment by Mastercard and Visa, EFTPOS, debit card and NZ dollar cash. Foreign currency is not accepted but can be exchanged at banks within Wānaka, which are open during business hours Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings.
Payments made by Mastercard and Visa will incur a surcharge of 2.5%. We accept AMEX with a 3.5% surcharge, JCB, Union Pay and Cheques.
What is the check-in and check-out time?
Check in time is 3.00pm (1500) with departure by 10.30am (1030). There is a late check out fee if you check out after 10.30am. Please contact our reception team on +64 443 0011 or 0800 108 311 if you require a later check out.
Is there room service?
A selection of food and beverages from the Wineglass Cafe menu are available and can be delivered to your room. There is an additional cost of $7.50 for tray delivery.
How close is the nearest supermarket/grocery store? Can I walk there?
The nearest grocery store is a 5 minute drive or 25 minutes stroll via the lakefront walkway. It is a ‘New World’ branded supermarket and is well stocked.
How much does it cost to hire bikes?
Edgewater has bikes on site available for hire. Safety equipment is provided as well. We have the following hire prices to suit your needs.
Adult: 2hrs $35, 4hrs $50, Full day $70
Child: 2hrs $20, 4hrs $30, Full Day $40
Please note: If you would like to hire an e-bike, these will need to be hired in advance. Please book your e-bike hire with our front desk team or our Concierge, and these bikes will be dropped off the morning of.
Does Edgewater Resort provide robes in the rooms?
All rooms have dressing robes available for guest use.
Are there hairdryers, irons and ironing boards in rooms?
Yes, hairdryers, irons and ironing boards are provided.
Are there in-room safes?
For peace of mind all rooms are equipped with in-room safes.
What is included in the kitchenette facilities in suites and apartments?
For guests in suites and apartment rooms, kitchenette facilities include a microwave oven, two hobs for cooking, crockery and cutlery plus a small selection of pots, bowls, and general kitchen items.
Where and when can we dine at Edgewater?
The Wineglass Cafe is open from 7.00am offering breakfast, all day snacks, coffee, refreshments, lunch and dinner. For more information visit our dining page.
Are there guest laundry services?
For guests in suites or apartments, your room has a washing machine and dryer in your bathroom. Guests in our hotel/studio rooms are welcome to use the laundry located in '2 block' and '6 block'. There is a small fee of $2 per wash and dry.
Do you sponsor local events or host them?
Yes we do, please email [email protected] your enquiry.
Do you have lifts?
Our accommodation is in two storied blocks, and unfortunately we only have stair access to the second floor. Our friendly porter team and reception staff are able to help you get your luggage up and down the stairs should you need it.
Can I charge my electric car at Edgewater?
We currently have two EV charging points, which are compatible with Tesla vehicles. If you have an adaptor which will allow you to plug these chargers into a non-Tesla vehicle, then you are more than welcome to use them. Unfortunately at this time, we do not provide these extensions.
It costs $20 for up to 8 hours of charging. Please see our reception team to arrange this. Bookings are required.
If our charging stations are full, or you do not have an adaptor, there are charging stations in town:
Ardmore Street Parking and ChargeNet Charging Station
42 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305
Oakridge Resort Tesla Destination Charger
20 Studholme Road, Wānaka 9382
Cadrona Hotel Tesla Destination Charger
2312 Cardrona Valley Rd, Cardrona 9381
Mitre10 Mega EV Charging Station
100 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wānaka 9305
BP Service Station 50kW CCS and Chademo Charging Station
Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wānaka 9382
You can visit https://www.plugshare.com/ if you would like to see what other charging stations are available in the region.
Are you a Pet Friendly Resort?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in rooms or to stay in parked cars overnight. However, our café outdoor patio which is accessible via lakeside track does allow well-behaved dogs if they are on leash.