Hike Lake Wanaka and Photograph the Famous Tree

To begin this hike park in the lakeside lot on the west edge of town and begin walking counter-clockwise around Lake Wanaka. The first destination you will reach is the famed Wanaka Tree, which is easily recognized by the crowds of people around it taking photos. 

A few tips for maximizing your opportunity to photograph this surreal and fanciful tree:
a) Sunrise is the time to be there, there are fewer crowds and the light tends to illuminate the three and alpine backdrop well.
b) Try long exposures to smooth out the water and give the clouds a dynamic feel. Use an ND filter if you need.
c) Low wind is ideal, It allows for reflections and soft waves with long exposures. If the leaves are blowing, you cant really take a long exposure.
d) Experiment with walking farther down the beach and using a telephoto lens.

Moving on, you will pass under Roys Peak as the trail continues Dampier Bay which has many nice small beaches. Continue walking the lakeshore towards Glendhu Bay and eventually you will be able to see four big snowy mountains; Black Peak, Fog Peak, Avalanche Peak and Mt Aspiring.

Where the trail meets the road at the Glendhu Bay Parking area is a great turn around point.