4 Best Bars in Wanaka, The Southern Alps and Fiordland

If you want a late bite and a good bottle of wine, pop into The Cow on Post Office Lane for good garlic bread, pizza, and spaghetti. It's a very comfortable place, modeled in local stone and heavy timber, just like the original Cow in nearby Queenstown. In winter, the open fireplace does an incredible job of warming the bones (and the wine). Feel free to add commentary to their restroom chalkboard walls.

This bar's in an iconic spot at the top of Ardmore Street. Sit inside or out and soak up the amazing views of the lake and mountains; if you get hungry they turn out pub-style tapas and lunch, as well as dinner with a separate kids' menu. If you just want a pint in the sun, or after dark, the Lake Bar is a great place for visitors and locals alike.

With its lakeside views and lively atmosphere, LaLaLand is the locale for a late night out. Opening at mid-afternoon, their well-priced snacks and pizza will keep you balanced as enjoy the alpine sunset with a tipple. Their drinks menu is small but has quality craft beers and signature cocktails, including their New York Cheesecake Martini, which is a must-try twist on the classic. On weekends, the lounge welcomes guest shows, DJs and bands to keep party going.

Wānaka’s first brewpub has always had fun experimenting with flavor. Their on-site craft beer creation is like a laboratory in ethos, but their warm woody taproom and beer garden is welcoming with a bubbly atmosphere. Try out a range of local pale ales and sours across their fourteen taps, or grab a tasting paddle if you can't decide. When you find your favorite, you can grab a six-pack, half-gallon "rigger" or a 24-can "slab" to takeaway. Most Saturday afternoons they host live music, featuring local and touring artists passing through.