Short answer
Use this as a light half-day rather than a hiking day: walk by the lake, stop around That Wānaka Tree and nearby paths, then add Wānaka Lavender Farm for animals, gardens and a slower family-friendly finish. The farm still has value even when lavender is not at peak bloom.
In this guide
A deliberately gentle Wānaka outing
This is a gentle half-day for travellers who want lake scenery and a child-friendly farm stop without committing to a hike, rather than an attempt to cover everything in Wānaka.
Start by the lake
Use the lakefront and That Wānaka Tree as the scenic first layer. Leave room for changing light and nearby paths rather than setting a long walking target.
Earlier or later light is suggested for softer photography, but no exact time window is established.
Add the lavender farm as a separate experience
Wānaka Lavender Farm is the second distinct part of the outing: animals, open space, gardens and a snack/tea/treat context.
Keep a non-bloom fallback in mind. Do not make peak lavender bloom a condition for the entire visit.
Keep the half-day light
There is no fixed transfer time or stop length here, and no guarantee about age suitability or accessibility.
That means “half-day” should remain the planning shape—not a minute-by-minute schedule.
Final decision
Choose this outing when you want a softer Wānaka half-day with children or after more demanding South Island days. If hiking is the priority, make a separate choice among Wānaka’s trails.