Nelson Lakes National Park

Lake Rotoiti Jetty, Nelson Lakes

Explore the serenity of Nelson Lakes National Park

The Nelson Lakes National Park is an enchanting alpine landscape of rugged peaks, forests and stunning glacial lakes.

Explore Nelson Lakes National Park all year round.

St Arnaud is the perfect base to access the nearby Rainbow Ski Area. But if you’re not visiting in the winter, don’t worry, because St Arnaud has plenty to offer all year round. During the summer months, the ski area opens for hiking and mountain biking, so that you can still enjoy those stunning views out over the Nelson Lakes National Park even once the snow has melted away.

The 16 picturesque lakes that make up the Nelson Lakes National Park are undoubtedly the calling card for a visit to the village of St Arnaud, and many visitors have been spotted capturing that iconic jetty shot at Lake Rotoiti.

Māori tell the story of Rākaihautū, a great chief who created the lakes as he dug holes with his ko, or digging stick. One of these holes is what we now know as Lake Rotoroa (long lake) and the other is Lake Rotoiti (little lake). Lake Rotomairewhenua (also known as ‘Blue Lake’) has been officially named the clearest lake in the world, and is nestled amongst the stunning forests of the national park.

If outdoor adventures are what you’re looking for, Nelson Lakes is the place for you.

Day walkers can enjoy leisurely lakeside walks, whilst more serious hikers can head off on a journey through alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, tarns, beech forests, and undulating valleys. Meanwhile, boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming and kayaking are all popular activities for those who want to get amongst the water-based surroundings, although you’d have to be a hardy soul to jump off the wharf into Lake Rotoiti in winter.

In and around Nelson Lakes

Rotomairewhenua (Blue Lake)

Rotomairewhenua (also known as ‘Blue Lake’) is located in the depths of Nelson Lakes National Park. Translated as the ‘land of peaceful waters,’ It is the clearest lake in the world.

Canyoning Aotearoa - Shift Canyon - Advanced Canyoning experience

Are you one of those adrenaline and big adventure addict? Nestled in the valley at the far end of the Lake Rotoiti, an epic and rare adventure awaits.

NZ$449 - NZ$449

Whisky Falls

Lake Rotoiti is the main access point for many of the walks that dissect the Nelson Lakes National Park, including the Travers-Sabine Circuit and Lake Angelus, but many of the area’s ‘hidden gems’ are actually within easy reach of the lake itself, including Whisky Falls.

Trips & Transfers~ Private Day Tours Nelson/Marlborough/West Coast

Trips & Transfers Nelson Lakes & Beyond offers bespoke tours & transport to make travel around the top of the South Island a breeze. Small privately owned company. Experienced professional who understands what true kiwi hospitality means to visitors.

NZ$125 - NZ$2000

Travers Sabine Track Nelson Lakes National Park

Not just a shuttle - experience true kiwi hospitality. Contact Jennifer to book your bespoke and flexible transport to tracks in the Nelson Lakes, Richmond Ranges, St James, Kahurangi National Park & Paparoa National Park. We go where you want to go.

NZ$70 - NZ$750

Angelus Hut Tracks

Perched at 1,650 metres, Angelus Hut overlooks Lake Angelus and is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. From May to October, the lake often freezes, and snow covers all four routes, sometimes requiring visitors to dig their way to the hut.

Canyoning Aotearoa - Hidden Falls - Epic Canyoning experience

We invite you to join us on an unforgettable ride in this outdoor activity they call Canyoning Aotearoa; jumping, sliding, swimming, zip-lining and abseiling off waterfalls as you take in the magnificent surrounding view.

NZ$249 - NZ$449

Lake Rotoiti

The stunning scenery at Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park changes with the seasons, from the vibrant red and golden hues of autumn, to the blanket of snow that wraps the lake in a cool embrace during winter.