Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park is a hidden gem in New Zealand's South Island. Perfect for thrill seekers and nature lovers, the park has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. With stunning alpine scenery and well-maintained tracks, it is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. So whether it's the adrenaline rush or the breathtaking views you seek, Nelson Lakes National Park will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: The closest international airports to Nelson Lakes National Park are in Christchurch on the South Island or in Auckland. From there, you can either fly into Nelson Airport or drive. St. Arnaud, a 90-minute drive from Nelson, is the gateway to the park. From there, you can explore the park on your own or join guided tours and treks.
• Getting Around: Unless you are taking a tour, you will need a car to get around.
• When to Visit: Nelson Lakes National Park is a great year-round destination. Visit in winter to ski at Rainbow Ski Area and experience the snow-covered park, or visit in summer for all the other activities.
• How Long to visit: If you are a thrill seeker, you should plan to stay for 4-10 days, depending on the activities you want to do. But a day trip is perfect if you're not planning multiple activities.
• More: Check out our Wellington and Queenstown inspirations for other New Zealand destinations!

Highlights:

Canyoning:

Canyoning in Nelson Lakes National Park is a truly exhilarating experience. A canyoning tour offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping action as you descend into the park's deep gorges and cross its rushing rivers.

White Water Rafting:

With its fast-flowing rivers and powerful rapids, whitewater rafting in the park promises another heart-pounding rush of excitement. Whether you're paddling through calm waters or navigating the wildest rapids, the scenery is always spectacular. Head to Murchison to join a tour.

Hiking:

Discover the beauty of Nelson Lakes National Park by hiking. From short walks to multi-day treks, the park has it all. The Bluebell or Honeydew walks are easy and accessible, perfect for taking in the scenery of Lake Rotoiti. If you're up for a challenge, go on a multi-day hike to Blue Lake, which holds the title of the clearest lake in the world.

Mountain biking:

With its varied terrain and well-maintained trails, the park is a playground for mountain bikers of all skill levels. A good starting point would be the Teetotal tracks, which offer a range of routes from technical descents and challenging climbs to smooth and scenic singletracks.

Lake Rotoiti:

While the Bluebell Walk is a great way to see the lake, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it! For example, you could picnic on the picturesque dock that extends into the lake. Or hop on a water taxi and take a scenic boat ride across it!