Nelson Lakes

Nelson lakes

Nelson Lakes

The Nelson Lakes region provides outdoor enthusiasts with what is essentially a natural adventure playground. Visitors are treated to superb hiking, tramping, kayaking, skiing, bird watching, snowshoeing, walking, fishing, wildlife appreciation, camping, mountain biking, and water sports opportunities all within easy driving distance from Nelson, Blenheim, Hanmer Springs, and even Christchurch.

The area is centered around extensively protected bushland encompassing wild native beech forest, stunning clear lakes, and rugged mountain peaks, with many townships and scenic camping grounds to stay at exploring by rental car is easy.

Nelson Lakes National Park

At the very heart of the Nelson Lakes district lays the protected Nelson Lakes National Park. Covering an impressive 102,000 hectares, the sprawling native beech forest, rugged alpine landscapes, and multitude of lakes along with a wide range of beautiful New Zealand birds make this top of the list for many outdoor adventure seekers when visiting New Zealand.

There are many activities to partake in, ranging from kayaking and swimming on the lakes in summer through to skiing the Rainbow Ski Area at St Arnaud during winter along with the Department of Conservation maintained walkways and tracks.

If wishing to camp within the Nelson Lakes National Park you are in luck, the Park is home to around twenty Department of Conservation (DOC) huts with facilities ranging from very basic (there is the need to be self-sufficient, but is free) through to “serviced” (meaning they will contain toilets, running water, cooking facilities, hot showers, and rubbish collection but there will be fees charged).

Lake Rotoiti And Lake Rotoroa

Surrounded by steep mountain ranges and native beech forests the two largest glacial lakes in the Nelson Lakes National Park are Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa. Accessed from St Arnaud-Kawatiri State Highway (63), Lake Rotoiti is perfect for water sports and swimming with a dedicated water ski lane, swimming raft, and several boat jetties. There are two substantial campgrounds located on its shores offering powered and unpowered sites.

Lake Rotoroa is the designated “wilderness lake”, offering travelers a quiet, peaceful wilderness experience. With access along Howard Valley Road, off State Highway 63 near St Arnaud or Mangles Valley Road near Murchison, Lake Rotoroa provides access for hikers along the northeast side of the lake, with the option of a water taxi ferry to and from the tracks at the head of the lake. A small basic campground is located next to the lake.

Murchison

A popular Nelson to West Coast pit stop, Murchison caters to both the adventurous and the weary. Its close proximity to various lakes and rivers has led to a reputation for white water adventure and some of the world’s best fly fishing opportunities.

St Arnaud

The charming lakeside village of St Arnaud is the perfect base from which to explore the Nelson Lakes region either for its beautiful scenic wonders or for winter skiing at the Rainbow ski field. Renowned for the incredible surrounding scenery, St Arnaud has a general store with postal services, a petrol station, camping facilities, motels, chalets, and a local restaurant/café along with a water taxi service operating from a jetty at the northern end of Lake Rotoiti.

Things To Do In Nelson Lakes National Park

  • Enjoy Walking Hiking Or Tramping. Home to the northern tip of the Southern Alps, the Nelson lakes National park boasts a large number of extended walks, tramps, hiking, and mountain biking choices to suit all abilities. Tracks range from both the lakeside and more challenging alpine levels, with the most popular long-distance tramp is the Travers-Sabine Circuit.
  • Get Out On The Water. The beautiful alpine lakes that the park is named after, namely Lake Rotoiti and Rotoroa provide superb boating and water sports options along with guided tours offering the chance to learn a little about the cultural heritage of the area. Visitors to the Blue Lake will discover “the clearest natural fresh water in the world”.
  • Go Fishing. Considered an “anglers paradise”, the Nelson Lakes district provides legendary trout fishing opportunities for everyone from fishing enthusiasts through to the novice. Many of the local streams and rivers and of course the lakes are easily accessible by road in your rental car.
  • Hit The Slopes. Located over on the eastern side of the St Arnaud range, about a 40-minute drive just outside the borders of the Nelson Lakes National Park you will find the Rainbow Ski Area. A little off the beaten track, the ski field offers varied terrain and is popular with both snowboarders and skiers alike. The majority of the terrain is considered to be at an intermediate level, however, there are areas for beginners and the more advanced. Full ski and equipment rental services are provided on-site.

It is important to expect increased travel times over the winter months due to potentially hazardous road conditions and it is recommended to consider hiring a 4WD vehicle especially if planning on heading up to the Rainbow Ski Area. Enjoy your stay and remember to leave no trace of your presence in this beautiful New Zealand countryside.

Nelson nz rent a car-min

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

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New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.