Explore Nelson Lakes National Park
The Nelson Lakes National Park is located southwest of Nelson and Blenheim, in the Nelson region of New Zealand.
The Nelson Lakes National Park protects some 102,000 hectares of the northern-most Southern Alps. Stroll through tranquil beech forest and craggy mountains, and around clear streams and lakes in the Nelson Lakes National Park.
St Arnaud is the gateway to the Nelson Lakes National Park. It is located about one to two hours drive from Nelson or Blenheim.
Nelson Lakes National Park includes two lakes, Lake Rotoiti and the larger Lake Rotoroa.
There are networks of short walking tracks throughout the forest and around the lake shore and glacial features of both lakes. Longer walks and alpine tramping trips are also available.
Nelson Lakes National Park Activities
Activities in Nelson Lakes National Park include:
- Bushwalking, tramping
- Mountaineering
- Mountain biking, cycling (on formed roads only)
- Ski-touring
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Boating
- Water-skiing on Lake Rotoiti
- Bird watching
- Camping, picknicking
Nelson Lakes National Park Accommodation
There are a number of backcountry huts available for accommodation within the Nelson Lakes National Park.
St Arnaud offers a range of accommodation including camping grounds, private motels and holiday cottages.
Lake Rotoroa offers a campsite and backpackers lodge.
» Nelson Accommodation Directory
Nelson Lakes National Park Conservation
The Nelson Lakes National Park is managed by the Department of Conservation. Some things to remember include:
- Do not take dogs or other animals into the reserve
- Do not light fires
- Take your rubbish away with you
- Do not remove or disturb any artifacts or other historic remains
- Camp only in designated camping areas
- Mountain biking is permitted on formed roads only
- Overnight mooring on the lakes is not permitted