St Arnaud

Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park, St Arnaud is a serene alpine village that serves as the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most pristine wilderness. With its crystal-clear lake, beech forests, and panoramic mountain views, this tiny settlement offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and tranquil relaxation. Whether you're kayaking on the lake, hiking the renowned Travers-Sabine Circuit, or simply soaking in the scenery from a lakeside café, St Arnaud feels like a secret hideaway for nature lovers.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Rotoiti – Paddle, swim, or stroll along the shores of this stunning glacial lake; the water is so clear you can see the bottom from a kayak.
• Mount Robert Circuit – A classic day hike offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with a mix of beech forest and alpine tussock.
• Travers-Sabine Circuit – A multi-day tramp through river valleys, over a mountain pass, and past pristine lakes; a must for experienced hikers.
• Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project – Spot rare native birds like the great spotted kiwi and kaka in this predator-fenced sanctuary.
• St Arnaud Village – A compact settlement with a DOC visitor centre, a general store, and a couple of cafés serving excellent coffee and homemade treats.

Suggested Time to Spend

St Arnaud is best enjoyed over two to three days. Spend the first day exploring Lake Rotoiti and the Mount Robert Circuit, then dedicate a second day to a longer hike like the first section of the Travers-Sabine Circuit, or simply relax by the lake. If you’re a keen tramper, allow four to five days to tackle the full Travers-Sabine Circuit. The village is compact, so you won’t need extra time for sightseeing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson – A vibrant city with a thriving arts and food scene, plus golden-sand beaches like Tahunanui, just 1.5 hours north.
• Abel Tasman National Park – Famous for its golden beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for kayaking and the Abel Tasman Coast Track, about 2 hours away.
• Murchison – A small town on the Buller River, known for white-water rafting and the historic Murchison Museum, about 45 minutes west.
• Blenheim – The heart of Marlborough wine country, with cellar doors and cycling trails through vineyards, about 1.5 hours east.
• Kahurangi National Park – A vast wilderness of ancient forests and marble karst landscapes, with the Heaphy Track starting near the park’s western edge, about 1 hour north.

Please check official sources for current details.