Eely Point Reserve

Equipment

Eely Point Reserve sits on the southeast shore of Lake Wanaka, about 1.5 km from the town centre along Lakeside Road. The reserve's play provision is centred on outdoor recreation rather than a traditional playground structure. Highlights for younger children include a free junior bike pump track designed for children aged 3 to 5, and a boardwalk trail with fairy doors running through a magical lakeside setting. The wider reserve also features a disc golf course, a boat ramp, a pebbly beach, and swimming access, making it a favourite for families across all ages.

Access and Inclusion

The lakeside pathway through Eely Point is suitable for buggies and scooters, and accessible toilet facilities are available nearby. The reserve can be reached on foot or by bike from the Wanaka town centre via the Te Ara Wanaka lakefront pathway, which runs alongside Lakeside Road. A shared 2.5 m pathway (Stage Five of the Wanaka Lakefront Development Plan, completed 2024) now connects the reserve more directly to the marina and town.

History and Cultural

Eely Point Reserve has been a well-used local recreation area for decades, and QLDC has steadily developed it under the Wanaka Lakefront Reserves Management Plan. The Eely Point Development Plan set a vision to protect and enhance the amenity and ecological values of the lakefront reserves while providing for both land-based and water-based recreation. QLDC is currently managing a 60-year Tree Succession Plan for the reserve, addressing the long-term replacement of ageing and invasive wilding pines.

Practical Info

Free entry, open at all times. Street parking is available on Lakeside Road; larger carparks on Ardmore Street provide easy access via the lakefront path. BBQ and picnic facilities are available within the reserve. Accessible toilets are located near the Ardmore Street entrance. Queenstown Lakes District Council has a smokefree policy covering this playground.