Nelson Lakes National Park Tours and Activities

Nelson Lakes National Park
Nelson Lakes National Park featuring a bay or harbour, a pebble beach and mountains
Nelson Lakes National Park featuring mountains, a bay or harbour and a pebble beach
Nelson Lakes National Park
Nelson Lakes National Park showing a bay or harbour, mountains and a pebble beach


A scenic playground for anglers, hikers, bird-watchers and skiers, the northern gateway to the Southern Alps has two glacial lakes and various hiking paths.

Just a few hours from Nelson you’ll notice the elevation shift, the air freshen and the trees become dense as you close in on Nelson Lakes National Park. Covering 102,000 hectares (252,047 acres), the national park is considered the northern gateway to New Zealand’s famous Southern Alps. Shaped by glacial movement the national park is the site of two mountain ranges and is punctuated by the Rotoroa and Rotoiti glacial lakes. Stay in the comfort of St. Arnaud, the town on the park’s border, or get back to nature at one of the park’s many camping grounds and hikers huts.

Stay in the national park to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s natural beauty. The Nelson Lakes National Park’s main campground is located on the banks of Lake Rotoiti. From your campsite on the edge of the water you’ll have stunning views of the St. Arnaud Ranges and Mount Robert. There’s a smaller campground at Lake Rotoroa, as well as an upscale fishing lodge. Test your skills as you fly fish on the lake. The national park is a popular destination for trout fishing, with a large number of brown trout recorded in the glacial lakes.

Embark on a day hike to explore the surrounds of the lake or set out on a multi-day trek to go further afield. A 3-day loop trail will take you around Lake Angelus while the 5-day Travers-Sabine Circuit is a popular longer walk. Water taxis operate on both lakes and can deliver you to the trailheads of more remote treks.

In winter, the slopes of the national park become a destination for skiers. Bring your skis or snowboard to tackle the trails of the Rainbow Ski Field. Lift passes can be obtained in St. Arnaud.

Nelson Lakes National Park is between 1 to 2 hours’ drive south of Nelson and is serviced by the neighbouring town of St. Arnaud. Fees and permits are required for staying in the park and accommodation should be booked in advance.

Reviews of Nelson Lakes National Park

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
29
5 - Excellent 69%
4 - Good
10
4 - Good 24%
3 - Okay
3
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

didn't visit on this trip but did last time. beware the large sandflies with rubber bodies!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Great for water sports.

Popular places to visit


Top Nelson Lakes National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Alpine Lodge

Alpine Lodge

3.5 out of 5
75 Main Road, St. Arnaud
Alpine Lodge
Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.

Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.

St. Arnaud
Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.
Grand Suites Murchison

Grand Suites Murchison

5 out of 5
99 Waller St, Murchison, Tasman
Grand Suites Murchison
Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours

Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours

3 out of 5
30 Fairfax Street, Murchison
Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours
Mataki Motels

Mataki Motels

3 out of 5
34 Hotham Street, Murchison
Mataki Motels
Maruia Hot Springs

Maruia Hot Springs

4 out of 5
State Highway 7, Lewis Pass, West Coast
Maruia Hot Springs
Edit Hanmer Springs

Edit Hanmer Springs

4.5 out of 5
1 CONICAL HILL ROAD, 1, Hanmer Springs
Edit Hanmer Springs
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

2.5 out of 5
200 Jack's Pass Rd, Hanmer Springs
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
Braemar Lodge And Spa

Braemar Lodge And Spa

4.5 out of 5
283 Medway Road, Hanmer Springs
Braemar Lodge And Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park offers a range of exciting activities, including snowboarding, ice skating, and fishing. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's plenty to explore with options like water rafting, guided tours, bike tours, and stunning alpine hikes. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply enjoying the beautiful landscapes, the park has something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.

Shopping

In the heart of St Arnaud, explore local shops for unique souvenirs and gifts. For a broader selection, if you're up for a drive, check out the Richmond Mall or Nelson Market for artisanal crafts and fresh produce, perfect for bringing a taste of New Zealand home.

Recreation

At Murchison Golf Club, a scenic 35.4km drive from Nelson Lakes National Park, enjoy a relaxing day on the fairways surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The club's outdoor sports vibe provides a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation for golf enthusiasts seeking wellness amidst nature.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Lake Rotoiti with kayaking or a scenic boat cruise, immersing yourself in breathtaking mountain views. For a thrilling hike, tackle the Mt. Robert Track, offering panoramic vistas of the park and its pristine lakes. Don't miss the chance to experience the rich wildlife along the trails!

Nightlife

In Nelson Lakes National Park, the nightlife is tranquil yet inviting. You can enjoy a laid-back evening at local pubs, where live music brings the community together. Stargazing is popular, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Hemisphere sky, perfect for a peaceful end to your day.

Find the best attractions near Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park offers a stunning blend of scenic lakes and majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a beach experience. Explore the park's rich history and enjoy various attractions that highlight its natural beauty. For a comfortable stay, consider options for accommodation within the park to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking region of New Zealand.

  • Lake Rotoiti: This picturesque lake offers a serene escape with its stunning scenery and tranquil beaches, perfect for romantic picnics or outdoor adventures. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking in the beautiful landscape.
  • Robert Ridge: A haven for adventure seekers, Robert Ridge presents thrilling hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The outdoor experience here is invigorating, making it ideal for those who love to explore.
  • Classic Boat Museum: Immerse yourself in New Zealand's maritime history at the Classic Boat Museum. This cultural treasure features a fascinating collection of vintage boats, showcasing the craftsmanship and stories behind these iconic vessels.

Best time to go to Nelson Lakes National Park

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Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nelson Lakes National Park

To save money during your visit to Nelson Lakes National Park, consider travelling in June or September to October when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, especially for Thursday stays, which are the cheapest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget options and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Look out for last-minute deals, free cancellation offers, and sort by price for the best rates. Enjoy free activities like hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park are June and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Nelson Lakes National Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Nelson Lakes National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia