We said goodbye to Queenstown this morning and set our sights on Wānaka. The 90 minute drive wasn’t just “get from point A to point B”, rather a stunning stretch of road where every turn somehow topped the last.
A Quick Stop at Cardrona (and… Bras?)
One of our drive bys was the iconic Cardrona Hotel—New Zealand’s oldest hotel, dating back to 1863 during the gold rush era.
And then, right down the road we visited the infamous “Bradrona” fence—yes, a fence covered in bras. What started in the late 1990s as a few bras mysteriously appearing overnight has turned into a full-blown roadside attraction. While there appears to be some debate over its welcome, it’s become a quirky symbol of community, fundraising for breast cancer awareness, and just a little bit of Kiwi humor.
The famous “Bradrona” bra fence in Cardrona, New Zealand 🇳🇿 which now raises money myvlvl for breast cancer.
Wildwire: Lord of the Rungs
We rolled into Wānaka a few minutes early for our 11:00 am start time.
On the agenda was Wildwire’s “Lord of the Rungs” Level 2, which is a via ferrata climb.
If you’re like me and had to ask what that meant—here’s the simple version:
A via ferrata (Italian for “iron path”) is a protected climbing route that is built into rock. You’re clipped into a steel cable (at least two connection points via carabiners the entire time), and you climb using a series of ladders, rungs, pegs, and suspension bridges.
What we accomplished:
• 320 meters (1,050 feet) of vertical climb
• 6 suspension bridges
• Waterfalls rushing right next to you (and sometimes you get a cooling spray coming off the fall)
• Unreal views of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountains
It was equal parts thrilling, challenging, and simply fun. Definitely more physical than expected—but in the best way.
We were guided by Ben from the UK, who made us feel completely safe while also encouraging us to push just a little further than we thought we could. They also packed sandwiches for us, which somehow tasted like the best meal of my life at the top of the waterfall.
Side note – love my Goodr sunglasses. They are no slip and didn’t have to worry about them falling off!
The Lone Tree That Stole the Show
After coming down (and feeling very accomplished), we made our way to one of Wānaka’s most photographed spots: That Wānaka Tree.
This little willow tree has been growing in Lake Wānaka for decades, likely from a fence post that took root back in the 1930s. Over time, it’s become an accidental icon.
Then we walked along the lake, took it all in, and just slowed down for a bit after the adrenaline of the afternoon.
Wānaka After Dark (Early Night for Us)
We wrapped up the day with dinner at Big Fig and a stroll through downtown Wānaka, which might just be one of the cutest little towns I’ve ever seen. Cozy, relaxed, and surrounded by insane natural beauty in every direction.
Final Thoughts
Today we had a little bit of everything—scenic drives, quirky roadside stops, adventure, and a peaceful lakeside ending.
But if I had to pick?
The climbing straight up a waterfall on the side of a mountain might be hard to beat.❤️⛰️🧗♂️
Christina’s Journey Journal 