Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The national park contains a rich diversity of bird life, particularly in the forests located
near St Arnaud, the site of the 50-sq-km Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project. More than 15
years of predator control has seen bird populations flourish, and it's not uncommon to see
the raucous kaka, a large, native bush parrot. Melodious tui and bellbirds are abundant, and
can often be heard calling on the forest tracks. If you keep your eyes peeled you may also
spot other birds such as tomtits, robins and NZ's tiniest feathered friend, the rifleman. Great
spotted kiwi have been reintroduced and are breeding quite successfully, although you're
unlikely to encounter these shy, nocturnal creatures.
The native long-finned eel, some more than 100 years old, are found in large numbers
around the jetties in both main lakes. These creatures are fully protected and must not be
fished for. Brown trout is the predominant fish species caught here and can be found in both
the lakes and the main rivers (Travers, D'Urville, Sabine, Matakitaki and Buller).
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Planning
WHEN TO TRAMP
The overall climate of the national park is pleasantly moderate and is characterised in sum-
mer by long spells of settled clear weather. Having said that, a warm, clear day on a moun-
tain pass can become a white-out, with heavy rain or even a blizzard, in no time at all.
Above the bushline snow may fall throughout the year.
Both tracks described are in alpine environments that are best tramped from November to
April, when weather and snow conditions are most favourable. January through March of-
fers the most settled weather to tackle the tracks.
Many tracks in Nelson Lakes National Park can be safely navigated in winter, although
the park is avalanche-prone during winter and spring; check conditions at the Nelson Lakes
Visitor Centre.
WHAT TO BRING
It is imperative that you come prepared for sudden weather changes, at any time of year. All
trampers should carry warm clothing and good windproof and waterproof gear.
MAPS & BROCHURES
The 1:100,000 Parkmap 273-05
(Nelson Lakes National Park)
is good for planning and ad-
equate for many tramps in the park. NZTopo50 maps BR24 (Kawatiri) and BS24 (Mount
Robert) cover the Lake Angelus routes and Travers-Sabine Circuit in greater detail. Useful
