11 October 2026
Showers, becoming few and far between in the afternoon, then clearing to fine in the evening.
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1 / 56Nelson Lakes National Park
Mount Robert Circuit
This loop track around the northern face of Pourangahau/Mount Robert offers spectacular views over Lake Rotoiti that will keep even kids entertained. It can be enjoyed as a day or overnight walk.
Distance
9 km
Walking time
5 hr return
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Weather outlook
Nelson Lakes National Park forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Fine, but becoming overcast in the evening.
13 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Showers turning to heavy rain. Snow lowering to 1700 metres.
15 October 2026
Showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Mount Robert Circuit on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Mount Robert Circuit
Time required : 5 hours (loop) This well marked, well-formed circuit combines the Pinchgut Track and Paddy's Track. Pinchgut Track zigzags up the steep, bare face of Pourangahau/Mount Robert on a well graded track before entering beech forest. After climbing for one and a half hours, you reach the bush edge, where the forest gives way to alpine herbs and shrubs. From here the track continues across the open ridge top and reaches Relax Shelter. At a junction just past the shelter, Paddy’s Track begins and heads east to Bushline Hut, a great place to stop for lunch or stay overnight. To complete the circuit walk, head down to Mt Robert Road on Paddy's Track and walk 500 m along the road back to the car park.
Essential information for Mount Robert Circuit
The gate at the bottom of Mount Robert Road is locked when the road is icy. Nelson Lakes National Park is in an alpine area – freezing conditions can occur at any time of year. No rubbish facilities are provided – carry out all your rubbish. Biting sandflies can detract for your experience at the lakes, especially during the summer months – cover up and apply a good quality insect repellent to exposed skin. Wasps are a known hazard and are particularly common from December until April – carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings. Isolated carparks are prone to theft. Don't leave any valuables in your vehicle. A bag storage facility is available at the Rotoiti/Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre.
Huts and campsites
Bushline Hut
Getting there for Mount Robert Circuit
From St Arnaud, follow SH 63 west for 2 km, then turn into Mount Robert Road. Follow this for 4.9 km to the car park at the end. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Mount Robert Circuit
No dogs.
Before you walk Mount Robert Circuit
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.