10 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning, possibly heavy inland, turning to rain at night. Northeasterlies developing in the morning.
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1 / 1Nelson Lakes National Park
Peninsula Loop Track
The track follows the shores of Lake Rotoiti from Kerr Bay to West Bay. The track is well-maintained and provides great views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Distance
4.76 km
Walking time
2 hrs
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Access to Rotoiti Lodge affected by works
Access to Rotoiti Lodge affected by works
Weather outlook
Nelson forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 5:00 am
11 October 2026
A few showers clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northerlies, dying out in the afternoon.
12 October 2026
Fine. Light winds.
13 October 2026
A few showers clearing in the afternoon, then partly cloudy. Light winds.
14 October 2026
Rain with heavy falls easing. Northerlies developing for a time.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Peninsula Loop Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Peninsula Loop Track
Starting at the jetty, this walk circles the peninsula into West Bay, crossing the Alpine Fault twice. The full loop spans 4.8 km, connecting with the Black Hill Walk, Lodge Road, Ward Street, and returning to the jetty. For a shorter option, the 3.7 km route branches off to Cotterell Street and View Road. Interpretive panels along the trail provide historical insights, and the walk features diverse native plants and several convenient access points to the lakeshore.
Essential information for Peninsula Loop Track
Be prepared with warm and waterproof clothing. 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 repellant 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.
Getting there for Peninsula Loop Track
From SH63 in St Arnaud, turn left onto Kerr Bay Road and follow it down to the lake. There is plenty of parking at the lake edge next to the jetties on either side of the bay. At the eastern end next to the DOC campground, you will see a large information board with a map, and times and distances of the various tracks in the area. Use this location on Google Maps to help 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
Before you walk Peninsula Loop Track
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.