A Day Exploring Nelson Lakes
If you're looking for a day trip that combines alpine scenery, a gorgeous lake, native forest, and a touch of history, a visit to Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park is a perfect choice. Just 90 minutes from either Blenheim or Nelson, this stunning glacial lake lies at the heart of the park, surrounded by beech forests and the dramatic peaks of the St Arnaud and Travers Ranges. The village of St Arnaud is a welcoming base with cafés, walking tracks, lakeside campsites, and a wide range of short walks, making it easy to explore a variety of natural attractions in a single day.
Morning Arrival in St Arnaud
As you arrive in the small alpine village of St Arnaud, the scenery shifts dramatically — lush beech forests give way to clear mountain air and the sparkling blue of Lake Rotoiti. The town sits at 640 metres above sea level and serves as the main entry point to Nelson Lakes National Park. Before diving into the day's activities, stop at the DOC Visitor Centre just above Kerr Bay. It’s packed with fascinating displays about the area’s unique ecosystems and Māori legends — including the story of Rākaihautū, who is said to have carved out the South Island’s lakes with his digging stick.
From here, you can get advice on the best local walks, longer tramping routes, or just admire the view across the lake. It’s also a great place to pick up a trail map or talk to rangers about conservation efforts in the park.
Step Into Boating History at the Classic Boat Museum
Your next stop can be a short detour to the Classic Boat Museum on Beechnest Drive, a true gem for anyone curious about maritime history. Founded by Pete Rainey, the museum houses an impressive collection of restored classic boats, including sleek racing vessels like the BelAir and the Rolls-Royce–powered Flak Too. These lovingly maintained boats reflect decades of ingenuity and craftsmanship — even if you’re not a boat expert, you’ll find the stories and engineering fascinating.
The museum plays a key role in organising the annual Antique and Classic Boat Show, where many of these vessels come alive on the water. If you’re visiting around Easter, it’s well worth timing your trip to catch the action.
Lakeside Bliss at Kerr Bay
From the museum, make your way down to Kerr Bay, the main recreation area on the northern edge of Lake Rotoiti. With its wide grassy reserve, pebble beach, and two long jetties reaching into the lake, it’s an ideal spot to stop for a swim or picnic. On a still day, the mirror-like reflections of Mount Robert and the Travers Range across the water are stunning.
Kerr Bay is also home to one of the region’s best Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, nestled among the beech trees just a short walk from the beach. The Kerr Bay Campsite offers easy access to all of the bay’s attractions, including water sports, boat launching, and short nature walks.
Tranquil Forest Loop: The Honeydew Track
On the eastern side of Kerr Bay, the Honeydew Track invites you into a serene pocket of mature red and mountain beech forest. Starting just past the east jetty near the Kerr Bay campsite, this 30-minute loop is part of the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project and includes interpretive signs that explain the fascinating honeydew ecosystem. Tiny insects living in the bark feed nectar to a thriving bird population — tūī, korimako, and other native species are often seen flitting among the trees.
You’ll notice the blackened trunks of beech trees caused by sooty mould — a by-product of this sweet sap. The short, well-formed track is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and a longer 90-minute loop is available if you're keen to stretch your legs a little further.
Walk the Lakeshore: Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk
From the western side of Kerr Bay, pick up the Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk, a one- to two-hour circuit through regenerating beech forest along the narrow peninsula separating Kerr Bay from West Bay. The trail hugs the lakeshore before turning inland toward St Arnaud village and looping back around to the DOC Visitor Centre.
As you walk, you’ll discover interpretive panels that tell the story of the 19th-century fires that scarred Mount Robert’s face, efforts to replant native trees, and the origins of the many European place names scattered across the region. There are multiple quiet beach access points and gorgeous views across the lake toward the steep slopes of Mt Robert.
Quiet Waters at West Bay
Emerging from the Brunner Peninsula trail, you’ll arrive at West Bay, a more secluded and peaceful corner of the lake. Surrounded by mānuka and kānuka regrowth, the bay is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a picnic by the calm water. This is also where the Buller River begins its journey westward, and it’s a popular spot for trout fishing.
There are two DOC campsites here: the Jetty Campsite near the lake’s edge, and the Buller Campsite a little further along, both with access to walking trails. Several tracks start nearby, including the Anglers Walk, the Black Hill and Moraine Walks, and the Lakeside Track leading toward the Mount Robert car park.
Breathtaking Views from Mt Robert Lookout
Cap off your day with a drive up the winding Mt Robert Road to the high car park, where you’ll find one of the best easily accessible views in the region. The Pourangahau / Mt Robert Viewpoint Track is just 100 metres long and leads to a ridge overlooking the lake and surrounding ranges. At 879 metres above sea level, you’ll get sweeping vistas over West Bay, the Brunner Peninsula, Kerr Bay, and the valley beyond.
It’s a brilliant way to end the day — the perfect blend of fresh mountain air, awe-inspiring scenery, and that satisfying feeling that comes from a day well spent in nature.
A Perfect Alpine Escape
A day trip around Lake Rotoiti offers far more than you might expect: boating heritage, pristine native forest, lakeside serenity, and mountain views that leave a lasting impression. With accessible walking tracks, friendly wildlife, and multiple DOC campsites at Kerr Bay and West Bay, it’s also an ideal place to stay the night if you find yourself not ready to leave. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a full day, this corner of Nelson Lakes National Park is sure to leave you enchanted — and already planning your next visit.
Highlights & Helpful Hints
- Travel time: Around 1.5 hours from either Nelson or Blenheim by car.
- Best base: St Arnaud offers a DOC Visitor Centre, grocery shop, cafés, and access to most trails.
- Must-do short walks:
- Honeydew Track: 30-minute forest loop with birdlife and beech ecology.
- Brunner Peninsula Walk: 1–2 hours along the lake with interpretive signs and views.
- Mt Robert Viewpoint: 100m stroll with panoramic alpine views.
- Best Day Hike: Mt Robert Circuit combines Paddy's Track and the Pinchgut for a 5-hour loop over the top of Mt Robert.
- Classic Boat Museum: A unique stop featuring restored vintage boats — especially fun around Easter.
- DOC Campsites:
- Kerr Bay: Closest to the village and forest trails.
- West Bay: Includes the Jetty and Buller campsites for a quieter experience by the water.
- Swimming: Clear water, two jetties and a diving platform at Kerr Bay — large tame eels are a local highlight.
- Water taxis: Available from both Kerr Bay and West Bay for trampers heading to the Travers-Sabine Circuit.