Saint Arnaud: Lake Rotoiti, Trails and Nature

Saint Arnaud brings together Lake Rotoiti and a range of natural and cultural highlights: lakeside trails, beech forest, traces of past glaciers and a high-altitude track that climbs above the tree line. The routes vary in length and duration; there are also information panels about local history and a collection of classic boats. When planning your stay, you can use these specific trails and sights to guide your choice.

Trails around Lake Rotoiti

Lake Rotoiti is one of 16 lakes in Nelson Lakes National Park. The Lake Rotoiti Circuit starts at Kerr Bay on the lakeshore in Saint Arnaud and forms part of the Te Araroa Trail. The route is suitable for families. You can take a water taxi for part of the journey or stay overnight in a hut; water taxi availability may vary.

The Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk crosses the peninsula from Kerr Bay to West Bay, crossing the Alpine Fault twice. There are several easy-to-reach spots along the route giving access to the shores of Lake Rotoiti. Information panels offer insights into the area's history. The short Bellbird Walk is wheelchair accessible, takes 15 minutes and introduces the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project area. On the return, it passes through a wetland with sedges, rushes, ferns and mosses.

Forest, glaciers and high-altitude tracks

The Black Valley Walk follows Black Valley Stream through beech forest and across scree deposited by past glaciers. At the foot of Black Hill, the Moraine Walk crosses scree left behind by the former Travers Glacier. The Black Hill Walk passes through stands of beech, mānuka and kānuka on its way to Black Hill. A clearing offers views of Saint Arnaud Village and Big Bush.

The St Arnaud Range Track climbs through beech forest to more than 1,650 metres. Red beech grows on the lower slopes, with silver and mountain beech higher up. After a two-hour climb, the track reaches Parachute Rocks above the tree line; from the ridge, there are views of the surrounding landscape. Alpine conditions are variable. The time estimates show the difference between the trails: the Bellbird Walk takes 15 minutes, while the climb to Parachute Rocks takes two hours.

Wetlands and wildlife watching

The Honeydew Walk branches off the Bellbird Walk and continues into the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project area. Its surface is suitable for wheelchairs, although assistance is needed on steeper sections. Bellbirds and tūī are often seen around the trail. Red and yellow beech mistletoe flowers may be seen on the Loop Track in December and January. Near Saint Arnaud, Whisky Falls is a 40-metre-high waterfall surrounded by dense moss and ferns.

Culture, visitor information and accommodation

The Nelson Lakes National Park Visitor Centre provides information on day walks and multi-day hikes, hunting and campsites, as well as water taxis on Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa. Seasonal operations may change, so check opening hours in advance. Confirm current water taxi arrangements locally.

The Antique & Classic Boat Museum has a collection of classic motorboats and sailboats. Check the public opening hours separately if you are planning a visit. The 26th NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show was held on 7 and 8 March 2026 on the shores of Kerr Bay. More than 150 boats were displayed, including boats dating from 1900 onwards.

The Tophouse Inn, near Saint Arnaud, is a heritage-listed boutique hotel.

Discover more destinations: Anatori, Richmond, Ngatimoti, Kikiwa, Brightwater, Upper Moutere, Mahana, Motueka.

For the main travel overview: Tasman District.