
Nelson Lakes National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty, with its stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Highlights include hiking trails like the popular Angelus and Lake Rotoiti, which cater to both novice and experienced trampers. When exploring the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park, there are several service providers that complement what Trips & Transfers Nelson Lakes and Beyond offers.
1. Introduction to Nelson Lakes National Park
Location: Located in the South Island of New Zealand, Nelson Lakes National Park lies at the southern end of the Nelson region, around 100 kilometers from Nelson City to the North or Blenheim City to the East.
Overview: Established in 1956, it is famous for its pristine lakes (Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua), stunning mountain ranges, diverse flora and fauna, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
2. Scenic Highlights
Lake Rotoiti & Lake Rotorua: These clear, turquoise lakes are perfect for scenic views, boat tours, and water activities like kayaking and fishing.
St Arnaud Range: Majestic mountain views with hiking tracks leading to panoramic views of the park.
Fungi and Flora: The park features a rich diversity of native plants, such as beech forests, and is also home to many species of birds like the South Island Kaka and the Great Crested Grebe.
3. Activities in Nelson Lakes National Park
This is an essential part for travelers visiting the park. List activities like:
Hiking & Walking Tracks: There are various tracks, from easy strolls to challenging hikes:
The Angelus Hut Track (multi-day, rewarding alpine experience).
The Lake Rotoiti Loop Track (easy walk with breathtaking views).
The Mount Robert Summit Track (moderate, for stunning lake and alpine vistas).
Kayaking & Canoeing: Explore the tranquil waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua.
Fishing: Both lakes are great for fishing, especially for rainbow trout.
Camping & Picnicking: There are several designated camping areas, especially near Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua.
Mountain Biking: Offering trails for various skill levels, that showcase the beautiful landscapes of the area. Some tracks offer biking opportunities, such as the St Arnaud Mountain Bike Trail.
Local Services;
Guided Tours - Trips & Transfers specialises in guided walks, wine tours, visits to artisans and off the beaten track day trips ensuring expert insights into the region's flora and fauna and conservation work.
Wilderness Water Taxi - Offering watertaxi to the south end of the lake along with scenic tours on the lake. Contact Hamish.
Nelson Lakes National Park Visitor Centre - The center offers valuable information on local trails, wildlife, and safety tips for hikers and bikers. It also includes a museum with history and sights of the area. They also sell maps and provide updates on weather conditions. Tel 03-5211806
Alpine Lodge - A welcoming bed, hot showers, cosy restaurant with excellent meals.
Nelson Lakes Motels & Travers Sabine Lodge. Fully self contained units offering accommodation suited to couples, families and groups
Local Fishing Guides - Various local guides offer fishing tours on Lake Rotoiti, Lake Rotoroa and further afield where anglers can enjoy a relaxing day on the water and learn about the local fishing spots. We recommend the Owen River Lodge.
Utilizing these services along with Trips & Transfers, licensed shuttle company based in St Arnaud, Nelson Lakes National Park, can enhance your experience in the Nelson Lakes area, making your visit both convenient and memorable. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, and cycling through scenic routes. Local service providers, including the licensed shuttle company based in St Arnaud, offers convenient transportation options to and from the park, making it easy for groups and outdoor enthusiasts to access the area’s remote lodges and track systems. There is no public bus to the Nelson Lakes National Park.
Guided tours are also available, enriching the experience with insights into the region's rich history and ecology.
Phone: 022-6154915 or book online
Offers bespoke, flexible transport and guided tours
Provides door-to-door service
Serves groups, trampers, hikers, and bikers
Destinations include tracks and remote lodges in the Top of the South Island
Transport to/from Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes, Kahurangi & Paparoa National Parks
Locations serviced: Blenheim, Nelson, PictonMake it stand out.
Popular Hiking/Tramping Tracks Nelson Lakes National Park
Tracks in Nelson Lakes National Park with recommended DoC times
Mount Robert Circuit
Duration: 4-6 hours return
Distance: 10 km
Angelus Hut Track
Duration: 6-8 hours one way
Distance: 15.5 km
Lake Rotoiti Track
Duration: 4-5 hours return
Distance: 12 km
St Arnaud Range Track
Duration: 6-8 hours return
Distance: 20 km
Coldwater Hut Track
Duration: 2-3 hours one way
Distance: 7.5 km
Travers Sabine Track ( Lake Rotoiti to Lake Rotoroa) The trail is known for its alpine scenery, including beech forests, tussock fields, and high mountains.
Duration: 5-7 days
Distance: 80km
Whisky Falls Track (Lake Rotoiti)
Duration: 4 hours return
Distance: 4 km
Always check current conditions and track status before setting out.