The Enchanting Nelson Lakes Experience
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Nelson Lakes Experience, a nature preserve in Tasman, New Zealand, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
The Nelson Lakes Experience is a breathtaking nature preserve located in the heart of Tasman, New Zealand. This stunning location offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature, featuring crystal-clear lakes surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless activities, from hiking scenic trails to kayaking on the tranquil waters, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.
A brief summary to The Nelson Lakes Experience
- Tasman, 7072, NZ
Local tips
- Visit during the warmer months for the best weather and access to all activities.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside and soak in the stunning views.
- Consider staying overnight for a unique camping experience under the stars.
- Don't forget your camera; the scenery is perfect for photography.
- Check the weather conditions before hiking, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Car
From Nelson, head southwest on State Highway 6. Continue on SH6 for about 50 kilometers until you reach the turnoff for State Highway 63 towards St. Arnaud. Turn left onto SH63 and follow it for approximately 20 kilometers. Once you arrive in St. Arnaud, follow the signs to the Nelson Lakes National Park. The Nelson Lakes Experience is located within the park, and you will find parking available near the visitor center.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Nelson to St. Arnaud. The bus service operates several times a day, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in St. Arnaud, you can either walk to the Nelson Lakes National Park visitor center (which is about a 15-minute walk) or take a local taxi. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance for any changes and confirm ticket prices, which can vary.
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Walking
If you're already in St. Arnaud, you can easily walk to The Nelson Lakes Experience. From the center of St. Arnaud, head south on the main road (Lake Road) towards the lake. Follow the signs directing you to the national park visitor center. The walk will take approximately 15 minutes and offers beautiful views along the way.
Discover more about The Nelson Lakes Experience
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Angelus Hut
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Spooners Tunnel
56.2 km
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Mt Fyffe Hut
84.3 km
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Tasman Monuments and Headstones
84.6 km
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Mapua Ferry
86.4 km
Experience the scenic beauty of New Zealand's South Island aboard Mapua Ferry, your gateway to stunning landscapes and coastal adventures.
Mapua Wharf
86.4 km
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Wheelie Fantastic | Specialising in Unique Great Taste Trail Tours |
86.6 km
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Helicopters Nelson Scenic Flights & Commercial Hire
87.1 km
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Pihopa Retreat
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Nelson Fun Park - Mini Golf, Bumper Boats, Trampoline Park & Hydroslide
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Lavendyl - Kaikoura Lavender Farm
89.5 km
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Abel Janszoon Tasman Statue
89.8 km
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Nelson City Top 10 Holiday Park
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Kaikoura Llama Trekking
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Wings Over Whales | Kaikoura Whale Watching
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Unmissable attractions to see
Nelson Lakes National Park
6.4 km
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Lake Rotoiti Jetty- St Arnaud
22.3 km
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Classic Boat Museum
22.8 km
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Kawatiri Historic Railway Walk
31.3 km
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Hope Saddle Lookout
38.1 km
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Maruia Falls
38.1 km
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Buller Gorge Swing Bridge
46.8 km
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Blacks Point Museum
69.0 km
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New Zealand Flag of Lavender
70.1 km
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Higgins Heritage Park
70.5 km
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Lord Rutherford Memorial
74.2 km
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Gardens of the World
75.4 km
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Eves Valley Scenic Reserve
76.9 km
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T-Rex Tree
77.9 km
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Hector Country Music Museum
78.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Moutere Hills Restaurant and Cellar Door
80.2 km
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The Grape Escape Cafe & Catering
80.6 km
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Idoo Viet Kitchen and Bar
81.3 km
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The Stables Tavern & Restaurant
81.4 km
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Harvest Kitchen
82.2 km
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Moutere Inn
82.4 km
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Playhouse Cafe and Theatre Restaurant
83.2 km
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Eddyline Brewery: Taproom & Taqueria
83.6 km
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The Bach Bar & Restaurant
85.8 km
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Brick Eatery
86.0 km
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The Apple Shed Kitchen & Bar
86.4 km
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The Jellyfish
86.4 km
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River Haven
86.8 km
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Speight's Ale House Nelson
87.6 km
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Smugglers Pub & Cafe
89.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beacon Hill Country Store
77.7 km
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Old Factory Corner
80.5 km
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Crafty or Wot
80.5 km
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Homelee
81.2 km
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Richmond Mall
81.3 km
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Hospice Shop Richmond Superstore
81.3 km
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Serendipity Gift Baskets
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Lemon Tree Lane
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Rare Creations, Interactive Wooden Art Gallery
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Tessa Mae's - Gifts & Homewares
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Mystic Journey
87.4 km
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Rosehaven Gift Baskets and Crafts
87.4 km
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Ikamatua Store - On The Spot
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Pots 'n' Prints
89.5 km
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Tessa Mae's
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Berlins Café, Bar, Campground & Backpacker
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Appleby Garden Bar and Kitchen
80.3 km
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Sprig + Fern The Meadows
80.9 km
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McCashin's Tap Room
85.0 km
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Turf Hotel
85.8 km
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The Honest Lawyer Country Pub, Hotel & Venue Hire
85.9 km
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Sprig + Fern Mapua
86.5 km
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Ocean Lodge
89.3 km
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Catch 22 Cafe & Bar
89.4 km
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Sprig + Fern Tavern, Tahuna
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Donegal House
90.9 km
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Port O' Call Bar
91.5 km
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Hardy's Bar & TAB
91.7 km
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Kismet Cocktail & Whisky Bar
91.7 km
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The Buxton
91.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Waimea
81.4 km
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Air New Zealand Nelson Airport Regional Lounge
86.8 km
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Air Kaikoura Aero Club
90.6 km
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The Nelson Club Incorporated
91.7 km
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MALBAS Bar & Niteclub
92.0 km
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The Shed Bar Nelson City
92.0 km
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Nelson Suburban Club Incorporated
92.6 km
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Kaikoura Golf Club
92.6 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Kaikoura Golf Club, where breathtaking landscapes and exceptional golfing experience await you.
Kaikoura Bowling Club
94.5 km
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Kaikoura Trotting Club
95.3 km
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Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
95.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Kaikoura Boutique Hotel, where stunning ocean views meet warm hospitality.
Kaikoura Boating & Fishing Club (Inc)
96.4 km
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