Exploring Lake Brunner / Moana
Lake Brunner / Moana, located southwest of Reefton on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, is a picturesque destination known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and fishing. The largest settlement on the lake is also named Moana, and is a surprisingly well-equipped holiday town offering a variety of accommodations and services, including easy boat access to the lake. This includes a commercial campground in the town.
Discovering the Rakaitane Loop Walk
A visit to Lake Brunner is incomplete without exploring the scenic Rakaitane Walk, which features a long swing bridge and uniquely shaped kāmahi trees amidst mature and regrowth rimu and kahikatea.
The Rakaitane Walk is a short loop on the west side of the Arnold River, east of Moana. From the main road through Moana, take Ahau Street west to the reserve and car park at eh end, by the boat ramp. Here, the Arnold River exits the lake, and a long swingbridge spans the river, leading to a charming lakeside beach and the short easy trail.
Another easy option is the Velenski Walk through mature forest on the east side of the river mouth.
How to Get to Lake Brunner
To reach Lake Brunner from Greymouth, travel east on State Highway 7 to Stillwater, then southeast on Arnold Valley Road to reach Moana and Lake Brunner. If you are coming from the south, take Lake Brunner Road directly to Moana from State Highway 73 between Arthurs Pass and Kumara.
There are numerous scenic and other interesting stops from either direction, including Blackball, Otira, Otira Valley Track and the Devils Punchbowl Falls.
