I needed a challenge in the New Year so I set about gathering some friends at the hostel I was staying at in Wanaka (Holly’s Backpackers, highly recommended) and rallied them in to going on a hike with me. Staying in hostels is a great way of meeting people from all over the world. Our group consisted of me (half English, Half Kiwi), Ronja (German), Leonie (French) and Jessy (Swiss). We set off in Ronja’s new car with plenty of food and went to conquer the peak.

Isthmus Peak is a fairly challenging day hike that will take you up 1385m. It overlooks both Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka and offers stunning views. I found this hike a little more challenging than it’s neighbour Roy’s Peak. The track is still well maintained and easy to follow but the gradient is a lot steeper.

To find out more head to https://www.paulblayney.com/