Over 70 years ago, “That Wanaka Tree” began as a wooden fence post that kept livestock from wondering through the Wanaka Village.
From those origins, a beautiful willow tree has grown.
The signage nearby notes that photographers come from around the world in an effort to capture the beauty of this tree. Please visit this link to see a photo of a swarm of photographers trying to capture this distinct little tree.
Evidently the popularity of the tree and the desire for selfies is starting to damage the tree. Per a story on News Hub, Lake Wanaka Tourism is asking tourists not to climb the tree to get photos, after a branch fell off before Christmas. “The loss of a branch is a big concern as it takes longer for this particular tree to regenerate,” a Queenstown Lakes District Council spokesman told NZ Newswire. “It’s quite a small tree growing in a challenging environment with its roots often completely submerged in alpine lake water. When bark falls off, which is more likely if people climb on it, the wound can be a focus for decay fungi and other diseases,” he said.
Thankfully, there were only a few others there when Boomdee and I visited, and I definitely did not damage the tree when I took my selfie 🙂 Sadly, the selfie of Boomdee and I, due to the bright sun and the angle at which I held the camera, did not turn out.
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 
What an odd but beautiful environment for a tree to grow. Gorgeous shots Laurie 🙂
What a gorgeous phenomenon! And why why why does mankind always have to disrespect what Nature gives us? Thank you for respecting this tree, dear friend!! ☺️
How amazing. Lovely shots
You did a great job capturing it.
I have that photo too, but I didn’t know the story behind the tree. Thanks for sharing.
What a miraculous event that is for a tree to grow for a post. It’s like a voice in the middle of the lake begging to take greater care. You have some great shots of it, Laurie and the selfie was at a respectful distance. Sorry the other one didn’t come out. These photos have almost an ethereal look to them. I would love to see it personally. Thanks for sharing.
Reblogged this on The Contented Crafter and commented:
Our time together has come to an end, but there are a couple more posts to come – heck, there might even be one from me! This beautiful tree, growing fragilely and wilfully on the edge of a lake kind of epitomises the wonder of the last two weeks – it’s been a small miracle ………..
Willow trees are always so determined to live! I can see why it’s so popular in photos–graceful and lovely!
Thanks for taking us there that day on your inaugeral driving on the left outing ! Isn’t it a little miricle? I don’t know how the constant water around the trunk allows it to continue growing. You’ve captured it’s beauty and rarity so well. I thought it very graceful and a reflection of our loving friends, all standing strong in a very special place in the world. Miss your crazy laugh! xox k
Pingback: A Pause in the Story | Life on the Bike and other Fab Things