Lake Brunner

Lake Brunner, the largest lake on the West Coast, is a serene gem framed by native bush and the distant Southern Alps. Known locally as Moana, this tranquil lake offers a quintessential slice of New Zealand’s wild west, where the pace slows and the landscape takes center stage. The small settlement of Moana hugs its shores, providing a perfect base for water activities, bush walks, and soaking up the region’s untamed beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Boating & Fishing: Lake Brunner is a haven for boaties and anglers. The lake is famous for its brown trout and salmon fishing – hire a boat or join a guided fishing trip to try your luck.
• Lake Brunner Walkway: This easy 3-km loop track from Moana follows the lake edge through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of the water and birdlife. Perfect for a short leg-stretch.
• Arnold River: The outflow of Lake Brunner, the Arnold River is popular for kayaking and jet-boating. The short Arnold River Track leads to a scenic viewpoint.
• Moana Railway Station: A historic station on the TranzAlpine route. You can even take the train from Christchurch and alight here for a lake escape.
• Mitchells Hut: A historic gold miners’ hut on the lake’s edge, accessible by boat or a 4WD track, offering a glimpse into West Coast heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

Lake Brunner is best enjoyed as a relaxed stop of half a day to a full day. If you’re driving the West Coast, it’s a perfect lunch or overnight break. For fishing enthusiasts or those wanting to kayak, plan a full day. The area is small, so you can easily combine it with a visit to Hokitika or Greymouth on the same day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika: 40 minutes south – famed for its pounamu (greenstone), wild beaches, and the Hokitika Gorge.
• Greymouth: 30 minutes north – the West Coast’s largest town, with the Monteith’s Brewery and the starting point for the TranzAlpine.
• Shantytown Heritage Park: A living-history gold-mining town near Greymouth, great for families.
• Punakaiki & the Pancake Rocks: An hour north – the iconic layered rock formations and blowholes are a must-see.

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