Nelson Lakes National Park Tours

Nelson Lakes National Park which includes mountains, a sunset and a bay or harbor
Nelson Lakes National Park showing mountains, a bay or harbor and a pebble beach
Nelson Lakes National Park featuring a bay or harbor, a pebble beach and mountains
Nelson Lakes National Park showing mountains, a bay or harbor and a pebble beach
Nelson Lakes National Park which includes a bay or harbor, mountains and a pebble beach


A scenic playground for anglers, hikers, bird-watchers and skiers, the northern gateway to the Southern Alps has two glacial lakes and various hiking paths.

Just a few hours from Nelson you’ll notice the elevation shift, the air freshen and the trees become dense as you close in on Nelson Lakes National Park. Covering 102,000 hectares (252,047 acres), the national park is considered the northern gateway to New Zealand’s famous Southern Alps. Shaped by glacial movement the national park is the site of two mountain ranges and is punctuated by the Rotoroa and Rotoiti glacial lakes. Stay in the comfort of St. Arnaud, the town on the park’s border, or get back to nature at one of the park’s many camping grounds and hikers huts.

Stay in the national park to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s natural beauty. The Nelson Lakes National Park’s main campground is located on the banks of Lake Rotoiti. From your campsite on the edge of the water you’ll have stunning views of the St. Arnaud Ranges and Mount Robert. There’s a smaller campground at Lake Rotoroa, as well as an upscale fishing lodge. Test your skills as you fly fish on the lake. The national park is a popular destination for trout fishing, with a large number of brown trout recorded in the glacial lakes.

Embark on a day hike to explore the surrounds of the lake or set out on a multi-day trek to go farther afield. A 3-day loop trail will take you around Lake Angelus while the 5-day Travers-Sabine Circuit is a popular longer walk. Water taxis operate on both lakes and can deliver you to the trailheads of more remote treks.

In winter, the slopes of the national park become a destination for skiers. Bring your skis or snowboard to tackle the trails of the Rainbow Ski Field. Lift passes can be obtained in St. Arnaud.

Nelson Lakes National Park is between 1 to 2 hours’ drive south of Nelson and is serviced by the neighbouring town of St. Arnaud. Fees and permits are required for staying in the park and accommodation should be booked in advance.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Nelson Lakes National Park

Alpine Lodge

Alpine Lodge

3.5 out of 5
75 Main Road, St. Arnaud
Alpine Lodge
Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.

Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.

St. Arnaud
Holiday Home in Nelson Lakes- a peaceful bushy retreat in St Arnaud.
Grand Suites Murchison

Grand Suites Murchison

5 out of 5
99 Waller St, Murchison, Tasman
Grand Suites Murchison
Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours

Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours

3 out of 5
30 Fairfax Street, Murchison
Off The Beaten Trail Accommodation & Bike Tours
Mataki Motels

Mataki Motels

3 out of 5
34 Hotham Street, Murchison
Mataki Motels
Maruia Hot Springs

Maruia Hot Springs

4 out of 5
State Highway 7, Lewis Pass, West Coast
Maruia Hot Springs
Edit Hanmer Springs

Edit Hanmer Springs

4.5 out of 5
1 CONICAL HILL ROAD, 1, Hanmer Springs
Edit Hanmer Springs
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

2.5 out of 5
200 Jack's Pass Rd, Hanmer Springs
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
Braemar Lodge And Spa

Braemar Lodge And Spa

4.5 out of 5
283 Medway Road, Hanmer Springs
Braemar Lodge And Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including snowboarding, ice skating, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy accessible campsites and embark on various outdoor adventures, with numerous hiking opportunities available on scenic trails. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the lake or an exhilarating hike through stunning landscapes, this park has something for every nature enthusiast.

Shopping

In the Nelson Lakes National Park area, visit local shops in St. Arnaud for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Richmond Mall, located about 30 miles away, offering a wide range of stores and dining options for a fun shopping experience.

Recreation

Explore the Murchison Golf Club, located 22 miles from Nelson Lakes National Park, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning scenery. The outdoor vibes and sports atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation in the beautiful Tasman region.

Adventure

At Nelson Lakes National Park, explore the breathtaking hiking trails that lead to stunning lake views and native forests. Try kayaking on Lake Rotoiti for an exhilarating experience, or take a thrilling mountain biking adventure through scenic landscapes, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty.

Nightlife

While Nelson Lakes National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, nearby Nelson offers vibrant nightlife. Enjoy crafted cocktails at the Sprig & Fern on Bridge Street or unwind at the Nelson Market on Montgomery Square, where local food and music create a lively atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park offers a stunning blend of lakes, mountains, and cultural experiences, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike. Explore the breathtaking landscapes, visit nearby attractions, and immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the rich history at local museums and enjoy the diverse outdoor activities available in and around the park, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and serenity.

  • Lake Rotoiti: Located 13 miles from Nelson Lakes National Park, Lake Rotoiti offers a stunning escape with its serene beaches and picturesque scenery. It's perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking or picnicking, and the romantic ambiance makes it an ideal spot for couples looking to unwind amidst nature.
  • Murchison Museum: Situated 22 miles away, the Murchison Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, showcasing artifacts and stories that reflect the unique heritage of Murchison and its people.
  • Gordon's Knob: This scenic peak, located 28 miles from the park, offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Hike to the summit for panoramic vistas that highlight the stunning landscapes of the Tasman Region, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nelson Lakes National Park

To save money on your trip to Nelson Lakes National Park, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June or October, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help you find the best rates, particularly on Thursdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and the opportunity to earn cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park are May to June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Nelson Lakes National Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Nelson Lakes National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Nelson Lakes National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.