St Arnaud

St Arnaud is a tiny alpine village perched on the shores of Lake Rotoiti in Nelson Lakes National Park. It's the gateway to some of New Zealand's finest beech forests, glacier-carved lakes, and the start of the classic Travers-Sabine Circuit. With a year-round population of barely 200, it feels wonderfully remote, yet offers comfortable lodges and a surprising café culture.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Rotoiti – Swim, kayak, or stroll the Lakeside Track; the water is startlingly clear and framed by mountains.
• Mount Robert Circuit – A rewarding day hike through red beech forest with panoramic views over the lake and valley.
• Travers-Sabine Circuit – A classic 3–4 day tramp through pristine wilderness; book huts in advance.
• Rainbow Ski Area – A small, family-friendly ski field (winter only) with uncrowded slopes and stunning views.
• Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project – Spot rare birds like the robin and rifleman in this predator-controlled sanctuary.
• St Arnaud Range Track – A steep climb to alpine tarns and 360-degree summit views.

Suggested Time to Spend

Base yourself for at least two nights to enjoy a day hike and a lake day. If you're tackling the Travers-Sabine Circuit, allow 3–4 days. Many visitors pass through on a self-drive itinerary between Nelson and the West Coast, but a stop of a few hours is enough for a short walk and a coffee at the Alpine Lodge.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson – An hour north, with art galleries, craft breweries, and golden-sand beaches.
• Murchison – A 40-minute drive west, known for whitewater rafting on the Buller River.
• Hammer Springs – Two hours south, for hot pools and mountain biking trails.
• Abel Tasman National Park – Two hours north, for coastal kayaking and the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track.
• Blenheim – Two hours east, in the heart of Marlborough wine country.

Please check official sources for current details.