About Glendhu Bay
Glendhu Bay is a lakeside holiday park and campground on the sheltered northwest shore of Lake Wānaka, just 10–12 minutes’ drive from Wānaka township (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (wanakawatertaxi.co.nz ). It is Wānaka’s only *lakefront* holiday park (holidayparks.co.nz ), prized for its panoramic views of Mt Aspiring and surrounding peaks. Originally part of the historic Glendhu Station farm (established in the 1860s), the first acres of land were gifted in the 1950s to create the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp (bikeglendhu.co.nz ). Today the park is operated by Hampshire Holiday Parks (formerly Glendhu Bay Motor Camp), and it combines classic Kiwi camping (tents, caravans, motorhomes) with cabins and lodges overlooking the lake. Visitors love Glendhu Bay as “*an idyllic location…out of the hustle and bustle of Wānaka*,” with camping grounds that “overlook an arm of Lake Wānaka” and “amazing views” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Signature highlights include its prime north-facing lakeshore location (soaking up sun all day (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz )) and a feel that’s both remote and welcoming – a “true iconic Kiwi camp” on the lake (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
Activities and Recreation
Glendhu Bay is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Right from the park, guests can launch boats or kayaks into Lake Wānaka, go fly-fishing or water-skiing, or simply swim and paddle. The park even has its own boat ramp and parking (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ), making it easy to take advantage of the lake. On land, it’s minutes from famous attractions: the Roy’s Peak hiking track (about a 5-minute drive) and the tranquil Diamond Lake/Hospital Flat rock-climbing areas (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). The scenery around Glendhu Bay is laced with trails and tracks – from short walks around the bay to part of the Millennium multi-use trail back into Wānaka (a 3–4 hour lakeside hike or bike ride) and longer routes into Mt Aspiring National Park via the Motatapu Valley. For ski season, Treble Cone (the South Island’s largest ski area) is only ~12–15 minutes away (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Mountain bikers can catch trails at nearby Bike Glendhu MTB Park or explore Wanaka’s vast 750 km network of tracks (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Adventurous visitors might skydive over the Southern Alps or canyon hard-core waterfalls on Wildwire – all accessible from the Glendhu Bay base. The park itself offers family fun (a kids’ playground and a jumping pillow (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz )) plus areas to BBQ and picnic right by the water. Periodically the site hosts seasonal community activities – for example, an annual outdoor cinema event was proposed for the 2023/24 summer (wanakaapp.nz ), and Glendhu Station (adjacent) hosts weddings, concerts and community gatherings in its historic woolshed and flat paddocks[a] .
Booking and Rates
Glendhu Bay operates like a classic holiday park – there are no “tickets” as such, but you reserve campsites or cabins. Guests can book powered or unpowered sites, cabins (some without bathrooms), a 4-room lodge (sleeps ~21) or a fully-furnished 3-bedroom lakefront house (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Reservations are made directly through the park’s booking office or website (Hampshire Holiday Parks), or via phone. During peak season (December through February and busy weekends), spots fill quickly so it’s wise to book months in advance. The campground generally offers rack rates that vary by season (summer vs winter) and accommodation type. As a guideline, campers often pay on the order of NZD 30–50+ per powered site per night in summer, with cabins ranging NZD 100–200+ per night depending on size. Special deals may be available for longer stays – for example, a 25% discount is sometimes offered on multi-night bookings during shoulder season (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). While accommodation bookings are recommended, the park does allow day visitors: a one-time day pass currently costs about NZD $15 per person (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). This grants access to the park during daylight hours (no overnight camping) and includes use of amenities. Check-in for overnight stays is usually after 2:00 pm (checkout by 10 am for cabins; 11 am for sites) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ), and the office is open from about 8:30 am to 7:00 pm daily. Late arrivals can be pre-arranged with reception. Rates and booking details should be confirmed via the park (prices here are examples, subject to change).
Accommodation and Layout
The park is laid out in a broad flat basin opening onto the lake, with trees and grass separating different site types. There are roughly dozens of caravan/tent sites (some with power hookups) as well as several cabin clusters and a central lodge/house. The most sought-after spots are the lakefront or near-lake sites – these offer direct water views and easy access to the beach and boat ramp. If you camp in a vehicle or tent, lakeside paddocks offer sunrise views, but they can be crowded by afternoon (the park is quite large and popular) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Cabins (some with bunk rooms, queen beds etc.) are tucked behind the main grass areas and generally include a small kitchen area (microwave, toaster, etc.). The 4-room lodge is a larger building used by big groups. A three-bedroom house (with full kitchen and living room) sits at the quieter end, sleeping up to ~10–13 people. All accommodation is described as “rustic Kiwi” style – cozy but not flashy – and bedding/linen is provided for cabins and house. Toilets and showers (in an amenities block) are centrally located. Note: showers run on a coin/token system (NZD$1 per short hot shower) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and during busy times lines can form for shower units. Vehicles stop at each site, and a large parking area sits by reception if you have extra cars or day-use parking. From most points in the park, you can see both impressive mountain scenery and the glacial blue lake. (One reviewer quipped the park has a “true iconic Kiwi camp” feel on the lake (www.tripadvisor.ie ) – in effect, expect a spacious, no-frills campground layout with picnic tables and firepits scattered around.)
Getting There and Parking
Glendhu Bay is located at 1127 Mt Aspiring Road (State Highway 6), Wānaka (about 11 km west of Wānaka town center) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). From Wānaka, head west on Mt Aspiring Rd/Treble Cone Road and follow signs to Glendhu Bay; a large gravel entrance and parking area will appear on the left before you reach Glendhu Station’s homestead. Driving from Queenstown takes roughly 80 minutes. There is ample free parking for campers and visitors at the park itself (usually included with an overnight booking). Day visitors (e.g. those using a day-pass) park in the same lot. If you arrive by watercraft, note Glendhu Bay has its own public boat ramp and moorings (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). A notable local transport option is the Wanaka Water Taxi, which offers shuttles to Glendhu Bay (about 20 minutes one-way from Wānaka, ~NZD $40/person) (wanakawatertaxi.co.nz ) – this is popular for cyclists or hikers who want to return by trail. Alternatively, a flat lakeside trail (the Millennium Track) links Wānaka and Glendhu Bay for walkers and mountain bikers (wanakawatertaxi.co.nz ). Public transit is limited – there is no regular bus directly to Glendhu Bay, so most visitors drive, taxi or use the water taxi. Organized shuttle services can be arranged, especially in ski season to nearby resorts. Rideshare apps are rare in this rural area, so if booking late-night transport make arrangements in advance (for example, local taxi companies or shuttle operators know the Mt Aspiring Road route). Once at the park, parking is on gravel; the entrance road can accommodate RVs but be aware it is unsealed. Rinse stations (e.g. for bikes) are available at the park entrance.
On-Site Facilities
At the gate you’ll check in at reception. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly – no formal dress code or performance curtain. Beyond the desk, the park offers amenities akin to a small resort: an undercover communal kitchen/dining area, communal laundry with coin-operated machines, free BBQ zones, and children’s playground including a jumping pillow (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Free or paid Wi-Fi is available in certain common areas (though coverage may be limited; note some campers say it is basic and token-based) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). A rustic TV lounge sits near reception where you can relax (details for TVs, games, or books vary by season). The park’s on-site café (adjacent to reception) sells coffee, snacks and light meals (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ) – perfect for breakfast or quick lunches without leaving the park. For larger meals, many guests drive to Wānaka or neighboring resorts. Secure drink options: yes, you may bring your own alcohol to campsites (check NZ laws on open containers). The park does not have a licensed bar, but the café offers soft and alcoholic beverages. Other conveniences include wireless internet access (password-protected), EFTPOS for any shop or gear rentals, and shop supplies during peak summer (firewood, ice, camping gear). Note due to conservation rules there are no bonfires or fireworks on lakefront (many New Zealand holiday parks prohibit them). Pets are allowed (on-lead) only outside the summer peak: dogs welcome from just after Waitangi Weekend (February) through spring and autumn, but they are barred during the busiest summer peak (Christmas–late Jan) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Guests should also observe quiet hours (usually around 10pm) as a courtesy. Lifeguards do not patrol the bay, so swimmers should be cautious around boats. Emergency services are reachable via road; cell reception can be patchy lakeside but works in most spots. Overall, expect a relaxed, communal vibe – the camp manager and staff often circulate, and many visitors swap stories or loan camping gear. The toilets & showers are kept clean (guest reviews praise how tidy the facilities are) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), but bring a torch for night walks and your own towels or toiletries.
Nearby Amenities
Immediately adjacent to Glendhu Bay Holiday Park is the Glendhu Station estate. While private, this farmland hosts the iconic Glendhu Station homestead and historic woolshed (function venue), plus some rental cottages. If you need supplies right away, the park’s camp store carries basics and the café helps with coffee/ice creams. For more comprehensive shopping or dining, the Wanaka township is the main hub. It’s about a 10–15 minute drive (or pedal) east to Wanaka’s village centre, where you’ll find supermarkets (Countdown, New World), petrol stations, and a wide range of restaurants, bars and cafés. Local favourites include Wanaka BeerWorks (craft brewery/pub), Maude Wines & Distillery (cocktails and wine tasting), and a slew of international eateries (Mexican taquerias, Japanese ramen bars, Italian pizzerias, etc.). The town also has cinemas, an ice rink, and a waterfront park (Wanaka Reserves) if you want to stroll the lake evenings. For pre-event dining or a drink, people often plan to eat in Wānaka before returning (Uber/taxi back where available) – just keep in mind driving rules on Mt Aspiring Road at night. If staying over, note trusted accommodation nearby: besides camping, Wanaka offers lodges (the large Edgewater resort on the lakefront, the Peninsula boutique hotel at town’s end) and backpacker hostels. Mid-range and luxury hotels abound in Wanaka (e.g. Wanaka Hotel, Oakridge), all within 10–15 km. On the return, late-night rideshares (e.g. “shuttle” vans, taxi app) do operate but pre-booking is wise. For the outdoor-minded, hiking or biking directly back to the park from Wānaka allows you to link with the Great Wanaka Track (Millennium Trail) right back to sleeping under the stars at Glendhu Bay.
What Makes Glendhu Bay Special
Glendhu Bay is beloved for its unique blend of raw natural beauty, history and outdoor adventure. The park’s north-facing position by the lake guarantees spectacular light and stunning panoramas all day (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). The area (Māori name Te Rākau-o-Tāneauroa) has cultural roots as well – Maori used the bay for fishing and gathering native plants for centuries (bikeglendhu.co.nz ). Later it became the centre of Glendhu Station farming, and part of the original sheep station buildings can still be seen. The nearby Glendhu Station woolshed (now an events venue) speaks to that heritage – one venue guide notes it’s a “unique historic building” set against “incredible views” (nzvenues.co.nz ). In fact, the McRae family (owners) are developing the land: a new 18-hole golf course (designed by the team behind Jack’s Point) and lake-house community jetty are underway (glendhu.com ), which will further elevate the site’s appeal. But even without those future amenities, Glendhu Bay’s character shines through: imagine sitting by a campfire on the beach as the sky goes pink, with only lupins and distant peaks as neighbors. Its wild vibe – “feels like you’re in the wilderness” despite being close to Wanaka (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ) – is what travelers rave about. Local lore also notes the annual Rangitata field burning and early explorers in Motatapu happened here, lending a frontier feel. Artists and filmmakers are drawn to the magic hours of light on the water. The result: celebrities and locals alike often choose Glendhu Bay for retreats, weddings or photo shoots, simply because of that aura. In short, Glendhu Bay isn’t just another campsite; it’s part of the story of Wānaka’s lakeside wilderness and a gateway to adventure. As one repeat guest put it, “What a stunning motor camp…not far from Wanaka but far enough away to feel like you’re in the wilderness… the people and] beach…are awesome” ([hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). That special blend of seclusion, scenery and genuine Kiwi camaraderie is what keeps visitors coming back.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The park layout is mostly flat gravel, making it fairly wheelchair-friendly in main areas. Most cabins have one or two steps; confirm if you need ramp access. Communal toilets should have one accessible stall (standard for NZ holiday parks), but amenities blocks can be busy. Showers are coin-operated (NZD $1) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Bring any needed adapters for outlets (NZ uses Type I plugs and 230V).What to Bring: Pack as for a lake holiday – swimmers and towels for the water, hiking boots for trails, warm layers (even summer nights can be cool), sunscreen and insect repellent. A torch/headlamp is handy for night. Camp chairs or a canopy aren’t essential (BBQs and some picnic tables are provided) but can up your comfort. If bringing a campervan/RV, ensure waste tanks can use the park’s dump station (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ).Do/Don’t: Don’t forget cash or a credit card for extra purchases (locks for showers, café snacks, laundry tokens, emergency supplies). While there’s a camp store, stock up on groceries in Wanaka beforehand if possible. Campfires are typically only allowed in provided firepits (and sometimes restricted in summer due to fire bans). Smoking is prohibited in cabins and indoor areas. Loud music and parties are discouraged after dark (quiet hours are understood post-10pm).Pets: Dogs are welcome on lead for most of the year (Feb through spring and autumn) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). They are not allowed during the NZ summer peak (mid-Dec through January). Bring poop bags and respect terrain rules – dogs aren’t allowed on the swimming beach in high season, and must not enter any buildings.Weather: The bay is generally sunny (north-facing), but be prepared for sudden mountain weather. Rain gear and warm clothes can save a weekend if a cold front moves in. In winter, the lake can be chilly but often still swimmable on mild days; ice thickness in Diamond Lake attracts ice-skaters.Parking, Transport & Arrival: Allow extra time if arriving after dark on the rural road. If biking or hiking in, the Millennium Trail from Wanaka is well signposted and relatively flat. The park’s paddock does fill up in evening; late arrivals might need to park at reception and have staff direct them. Rideshare apps may not have drivers in the area – plan taxis ahead if you need one after hours.Age Restrictions and Group Size: There’s no strict age policy – families, laxer backpackers and retirees all mix. Large organised youth camps are sometimes held, but generally the park is family-oriented. Maximum group sizes should meet site limits (e.g. a standard site holds ~6 people max), and loud gatherings should move to the big fields, not next to small families.Good Seats and Spots: Early-book lakeside sites for sunrise/sunsets. In cabins or lodge give preference to rooms facing the lake. Listen for boats – some sites are nearest the ramp (loud in morning), so if you want a quieter pitch, mention it when booking.Food and Drink: The on-site café has breakfast/morning options (sandwiches, coffee, sometimes Thai or pizza nights in high season). You are welcome to use the kitchen and BBQs; bring charcoal if needed (wood available on-site). Note local laws: tap water is drinkable but cool; bottled water may be handy.Avoid common mistakes: Don’t assume everything is open 24/7 – check café hours. Confirm pet rules for your dates. Avoid booking too late in summer without a reservation. If you’re relying on Wi-Fi, know it’s basic. Lastly, double-check your gear – cell signal is weak lakeside, but the park now has a small public phone by reception if needed.Insider Tip: Visit the park in the gentle winter shoulder season too – it’s still open and often eerily serene (and you might get special deals on cabins). Ask the staff about star-gazing spots; the night sky here is very dark and can be spectacular.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of accommodation does Glendhu Bay offer?
Glendhu Bay provides a variety of options: powered and non-powered campsites for tents/RVs, rustic cabins (sleeping from 2 up to 6 people), a lakeside lodge with 4 family rooms, and a fully-equipped 3-bedroom house (www.tripadvisor.ie ). The lodge and house have kitchens, and all beds include linen. Shared amenities (bathrooms, kitchen) serve the tent/caravan sites.
How do I book and how much does it cost?
You book by contacting the park directly (online booking portal under Hampshire Holiday Parks or by phone). Rates vary widely by season and site type; for example, campsites in summer might be roughly NZD$30–50 per night and cabins NZD$100+ (verify current pricing). Guests using the park as day visitors pay a flat entrance fee (~NZD$15pp) (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). The park sometimes has special offers (e.g. discounts for multi-night stays (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz )).
Is Glendhu Bay open year-round?
Yes, Glendhu Bay Holiday Park operates year-round. The reception desk has set hours (about 8:30 am–7:00 pm), but after-hours check-in can be arranged in advance (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Expect cold nights in winter, but the campground is still open even if ski fields close; just come prepared for changeable weather.
Are pets allowed at Glendhu Bay?
Dogs on leash are welcome outside the summer high season (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). The park’s pet policy states dogs may stay from early February (post Waitangi) through spring and autumn. No pets (of any kind) are allowed on-site during the peak period from about December 20 to the end of January. If allowed, dogs must be on lead, cleaned up after, and kept out of all buildings.
What facilities are available on site?
The holiday park has bathrooms with hot showers (coin-operated at NZ$1 (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )), a communal laundry, a fully-equipped kitchen with BBQ area, and a playground with a jumping pillow for children (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). There’s also free Wi-Fi in parts of the camp (though coverage is limited), and a small on-site café for snacks, drinks and meals (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). An outdoor picnic area with tables, games and communal lounge TV room are also available.
What is the layout of the park?
Glendhu Bay is spread across grass meadows by the lake shore. Lakeside sites (tents or campervans) line the water’s edge – these spots have the best views but are first-come if not booked. Behind those are cabins and group lodges. All accommodations are interspersed with trees. The main amenities block (showers, toilets, laundry) is centrally located. The boat ramp and parking area sit near the entrance. In general, pick waterfront spots for scenery, and interior sites if you prefer shade or quieter evenings.
How do I get to Glendhu Bay, and where can I park?
The park’s address is 1127 Mt Aspiring Road, Wānaka (State Highway 6) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). From Wānaka head west on Mt Aspiring/Treble Cone Road – Glendhu Bay is on the right just before Glendhu Station. Private vehicles park free just inside the park entrance. For day-trippers we suggest coordinating a water-taxi from Wānaka (about 20 min) (wanakawatertaxi.co.nz ) or cycling via the lakeside track. Note there is no public bus to the park; taxi or shuttle from Wānaka town can be arranged if needed.
Is there public transit or taxi service to Glendhu Bay?
There’s no regular public bus on Mt Aspiring Rd. To get here you’ll typically drive, take a taxi/van shuttle from Wānaka, or use the Wanaka Water Taxi service. The water taxi drops you at Glendhu Bay (20 min from town) for a fee (~NZD$40/hr) (wanakawatertaxi.co.nz ). Otherwise, arrange a private transfer from Wānaka. Rideshare apps may not reach the park, so best to book local transport ahead of your visit if you are not self-driving.
Are there any age or size restrictions?
No strict age limits – families with children, couples, and older campers all enjoy Glendhu Bay. Large groups should stick to the lodge or house (these have higher occupancy); standard tent/caravan sites are generally limited to about 6 people. Teen or adult-only groups are welcome but should be mindful of noise. There isn’t a formal dress code (casual outdoor attire is fine). All children must be supervised around water and playgrounds. Campsites are flat and accessible.
What amenities are nearby?
Immediately adjcent is the Glendhu Station ranch (private). The closest town amenities are in Wānaka (≈10 min drive) – supermarkets, restaurants, bars and shops. Closer to the park, the Treble Cone ski base (12 min south) has a café and bar. There are no hotels within walking distance of the park – overnight lodgings are in Wānaka or Cardrona. For dining, many visit Wanaka’s eateries (waterfront bistros, Kiwi pubs, ethnic eateries). Locally, the park’s own café plus a general store serve light meals; everything else requires a short drive or cycle.
Is Wi-Fi available, and is it free?
Basic Wi-Fi is available at the park but coverage and speed are limited. It’s mostly accessible near reception or the communal areas and may require purchasing a code or token for full access. Do not rely on fast internet here – many visitors report it is slower than in town. Cell phone data can work in parts of the park (except very close to the lake edge) if you have good reception from your mobile carrier.
What should I bring or leave behind?
Bring typical camping supplies and outdoor gear – swimwear (for the lake), rain jacket, warm layers for evenings, insect repellent and sunscreen. Don’t forget water shoes if you want to explore the lakeshore. The park provides bedding for cabins, but pack towels and toiletries. Leaving behind fireworks, gas cylinders not in approved tanks, or loud generators is wise. Also note the weather can be sunny (‘arvo’ sun is strong) or cloudy, so layers are key. If you plan to hike nearby, carry a small first-aid kit and drinking water.
Are campfires allowed?
Open campfires are generally not permitted due to fire risk, except in provided fire pits/grills at campsites during non-fire-ban periods. Often the park will allow small controlled fires in the communal BBQ areas. Always check with reception on arrival: during summer fire season there may be total fire bans. For warmth or campfire ambience, propane camping stoves (on sites) are recommended instead.
Can I bring my boat or jet-ski?
Yes – Glendhu Bay has a public boat ramp and boat parking (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). You can launch motorboats, jet-skis, kayaks etc. However, specific towing charges or ramp fees (if any) are handled by the local council – check on-site signage. All watercraft must be registered. There is a dump station for holding tanks. Note that daytime activity (like water-skiing) should be balanced with swimmers; flag any skiing time with others on the lake.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in for cabins and sites is normally from 2:00 pm onwards (hampshireholidayparks.co.nz ). Check-out is by 10:00 am for cabin accommodations, and by 11:00 am for tent/caravan sites (so incoming guests can use the facilities). Late arrivals should inform the office ahead of time. Reception is open until about 7:00 pm; if you expect to arrive after dark, coordinate with the park to ensure someone will welcome you.
Does Glendhu Bay host concerts or festivals?
Glendhu Bay itself is primarily a holiday park, not a dedicated concert venue. It doesn’t have a regular concert schedule. Occasionally special events have been proposed – for example, an annual open-air movie night was planned by a local organizer for summer 2023 (wanakaapp.nz ). More commonly, the site serves as a scenic backdrop for private events (weddings at the Glendhu Station woolshed, reunions on the paddocks). If you’re hoping to see live music or festivals, look to nearby Wānaka (Arts and Music festivals) or the A&P Show in town, rather than Glendhu Bay itself.
