Rotomairewhenua | “The Land of Peaceful Waters”
Nestled deep in the backcountry, very few people are able to witness the ethereal beauty of the clearest lake in the world. The vivid blue-green hues contrast the rugged, alpine surroundings, and the tranquility of this special place is palpable.
Please respect the people of Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō and the purity of the sacred water by not washing yourselves, your clothes or your dishes in the lake.
Route Options:
1. Out-and-back from Lake Rotoroa
22km one-way, 44km round-trip
950m elevation gain
Catch the water taxi from the Lake Rotoroa jetty ($65pp) and start your walk from Sabine Hut. The single track terrain is ever-changing native bush, open tussock, stream crossings and some scree.
The Details:
Sabine Hut to West Sabine Hut 15km
West Sabine Hut to Blue Lake Hut 7km
2. Travers-Sabine Circuit with side trip to Blue Lake
90.9km | 4 - 7 days
4681m elevation gain
This stunning circuit will take you through tranquil beech forests, golden tussock fields, and past soaring 2000m peaks and crystal clear mountain streams.
See our LotW on Lake Constance for details!
3. Mahanga Range Circuit over Moss Pass
48.1km | 3 days
2195m elevation gain
The first part of this journey is the same as Option 1: catch the water taxi from the Lake Rotoroa jetty and start your walk from Sabine Hut. Overnight at Blue Lake Hut and spend the next morning exploring the area and enjoying the serenity! The route over Moss Pass (1785m) is well-marked but strenuous, and it can take anywhere from 6 to 9 hours to reach D’Urville Track on the other side. Stay at the well-situated George Lyon Hut (16 bunks) or continue along the river valley for 8.5km to reach the quaint Morgan Hut (10 bunks). Day 3 is a 10.8km walk/scramble along the valley to D’Urville Hut and your awaiting water taxi!
The Details:
Sabine Hut to Blue Lake 21.7km
Blue Lake to Morgan Hut 15.6km
Morgan Hut to D’Urville Hut 10.8km
