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Attraction · Wanaka, Otago
Puzzling World
Attraction established in 1973 on Wānaka’s outskirts, featuring a large outdoor maze, rooms of optical illusions, a tilted house and a leaning tower at 53 degrees.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Puzzling World
Puzzling World was opened in 1973 by Stuart and Jan Landsborough as a single-level maze and grew into one of Wānaka’s best-known attractions. It sits at the town exit on the road to Albert Town, and is recognizable from afar by the tower that looks ready to fall, tilted 53 degrees from the ground, built in 1999.
The large outdoor maze invites you to reach the four colorful corner towers before finding the central courtyard. The covered area has optical illusion rooms, such as the Tilted House, built at a 15-degree angle that disrupts balance; the Ames Room, which makes people appear different sizes; the room of faces that seem to follow visitors with their gaze; and a hologram gallery.
The visit is aimed at families but also draws adults, and is a good option on rainy days or to rest between hikes. The cafe at the entrance has tables with puzzles.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours, including the maze.
Best time
At any time of year, especially on rainy days. Mornings usually have fewer people.
How to get there
On the road to Albert Town, about 2 km from Wānaka town centre, with parking.
Tip
There are separate tickets for the maze and the rooms, or combined; check the current price list. Allow one hour for the maze.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Puzzling World
What is at Puzzling World?
A large outdoor maze, optical illusion rooms, a tilted house, a hologram gallery and the tower tilted at 53 degrees.
How long does a visit to Puzzling World take?
One to two hours, including the maze.
Where is Puzzling World?
On the road to Albert Town, about 2 km from Wānaka town centre.