So, What's Happening?
Summer is here, and there’s no better time to soak up the sunshine, explore Lake Hawea, and enjoy everything our incredible region has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another unforgettable holiday season, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your summer stay at The Camp.
The Food Truck is Back!
Take your family to The Camp Food Truck for breakfast and dinner! We’re thrilled to announce that our food truck is in action. Our hours have extended for the peak season, which means that we are now open from Wednesday to Sunday, 8-11am and 3-8pm, from October through April.
We have a vibrant crew running the food truck this year and they are here to keep you fuelled for all your adventures. Serving up fresh, locally sourced bites, you’ll find Kiwi-inspired flavours alongside mouth-watering vegan and gluten-friendly options. From quick breakfast fixes to hearty sunset dinners, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget that we have ice, drinks, ice creams available on site at The Camp Shop.
Stay in the loop by following us on Instagram, and don’t forget to check out our breakfast menu and dinner menu.
The Secret Sauna - Growing to Meet Demand
After an incredible first year, The Secret Sauna is expanding! Nat has added an additional sauna to accommodate larger groups, so you can relax and unwind in this serene lakeside retreat. Everyone is raving about the health benefits! Nestled in the natural beauty of Lake Hawea, the sauna is the perfect way to recover from a big year or a long hike/bike ride. The sauna will be exclusively available to our guests up until 10 January 2025, so make sure to book your spot in advance.
What’s New in Lake Hawea?
Fresh Choice Supermarket
A brand-new Fresh Choice supermarket has opened in Lake Hawea, just minutes away from The Camp. Stocked with all your essentials and local goodies, it’s perfect for grabbing last-minute picnic supplies, fresh ingredients, or snacks for your adventures.
New Gym Opening
Fitness enthusiasts will love this addition to Lake Hawea’s offerings. The new gym in Hawea features 24 hour access, modern facilities and a convenient location, providing a fantastic way to stay active during your stay. Whether you’re maintaining your routine or unwinding after a day of exploring, the gym is ready to welcome you.
Plan It: Your Personal Travel Assistant
Make your trip to Lake Hawea truly unforgettable with Plan It, an app that connects you to a team of personal travel assistants. They’ll guide you to the best experiences and help you craft the trip of a lifetime – it’s the ultimate booking tool for adventures like jet boating, bungy jumping, and more.
Use code "THECAMP" to receive exclusive discounts on activities all across New Zealand. Whether it’s booking outdoor adventures, dining experiences, or local events, Plan It ensures you don’t miss a thing!
Local Events and Activities
Lake Hawea is buzzing with excitement this summer! Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary:
Live Music Nights
Catch live music on Sundays from 4.30-7.30pm by The Food Truck at The Camp through the summer months. We hosted the Dirty Money Duo a few weeks back, and have plenty more talent to keep you entertained! Keep an eye on our social media for updates on dates and artists.
Bike Hire & Outdoor Adventures
Leave your bike at home! We now offer bike rentals in conjunction with NZ Bike Trails so you can explore the area with ease. Explore on a regular bike or ebike the Dunstan Trail (with shuttles to the trail included) or choose a trail close to the camp. You can book bikes to hire through Plan It or by coming into the office at The Camp.
Use code THECAMP for exclusive deals. Experiences make great Christmas gifts, so plan ahead.
Yoga Classes
Yogis, rejoice! Don’t lose your progress over the silly season. You can sign up for a drop in yoga class while you’re staying at The Camp. Head down to the Lake Hawea Community Centre (located in the main township) for yoga classes with Danni on Thursday nights, from 6.30-7.45pm.
Surfing in Hawea
The newly launched YourWave is an exciting addition to the region. Perfect for surfers of all levels, this innovative wave pool allows you to catch the perfect wave, no matter the conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try something new, YourWave offers a thrilling experience for everyone. Book your session online and get ready to ride! You can book this through Plan It to make your trip arrangements streamlined. Don’t forget to use the code “THECAMP” when starting your journey with Plan It.
Hawea is also home to its own purpose-built wave, which can be found at the Camphill Bridge. The Hawea Wave is great for white water kayak, bodyboarding and surfing, but be warned - this is not for the faint hearted or beginners!
Lake Hawea Disc Golf
Lake Hawea's disc golf is probably one of the most beautiful courses in the country (but we might be bias). Play a 18-hole round (par 57) while taking in the serene lakeside views, located at the corner of Lakeview Terrace and Muir Road. All you need is a disc (frisbee) to play a round - it's the perfect afternoon activity while you're staying at The Camp with the family or your friends. You can find the map at the beginning of the course, online from the Hawea Community association or on the free app UDisk.
Hiking Trails Nearby
There's plenty of walking and hiking trails catered for a variety of ability levels. If you fancy a stroll, the Gladstone Track is a fantastic walk along the lakefront and will get you to the disc golf course. For those after a bit more elevation, the Isthmus Peak Track boasts panoramic views of Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka - skip the crowds of Roy's Peak and get an even better view.
Summer at The Camp Hawea is all about making memories, exploring the outdoors, and enjoying the best of what our region has to offer. Don't forget to stay updated about news and everything else happening in the region through the Wanaka App. We can’t wait to welcome you and help make your stay unforgettable. See you soon!