Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk

The Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk is a moderately difficult hike located in Nelson Lakes National Park near Saint Arnaud, Tasman. This trail visits 2 bays along the shores of Lake Rotoiti. This out and back hike is 4.6 miles long and gains 255 feet of elevation. 

This hike starts from the Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre parking area. There are bathrooms available here. Begin hiking south towards Lake Rotoiti. After about 0.2 miles, you will reach the shore of the lake. There is a jetty here where it is common to see New Zealand longfin eel. These are a long lived species of eel endemic to New Zealand. 

Continue west along the trail. You will be hiking in a forest along the shore of Kerr Bay. Along the way, you will encounter informational signs about the history of Nelson Lakes National Park. There are also a few benches that provide great views of Lake Rotoiti, the Travers Range, and the Saint Arnaud Range. 

Another 0.7 miles will bring you to the end of the peninsula that divides Kerr Bay and West Bay.  After another 0.3 miles, you will be walking along the shore of West Bay. There are more informational signs along this section of trail. You will also enjoy views of Lake Rotoiti and the Travers Range. Continue hiking for 1.1 miles. Here, you will encounter another parking area and a jetty. You will have an excellent view of West Bay from here.  After you have taken ample time to rest up and enjoy the view, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre. 

Nelson Lakes National Park is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.