Located at 1650m in the northern part of Nelson Lakes National Park, Rotomaninitua Lake Angelus and its serviced 28-bunk hut now attracts around 5000 overnighters a year.

There are good reasons for this alpine destination’s popularity. It can be accessed quickly from St Arnaud, the approaches through beech forest follow clear rivers and streams, and the tops offer magnificent views in every direction.

The most popular access route is up Pinchgut Track onto Robert Ridge, but there are five options in all. On your next visit, rather than retracing your steps on Robert Ridge, choose any two as entry and exit routes to complete a circuit with new terrain and views throughout.

Missed yesterday’s newsletter? Every Tararua hut reviewed and ranked!

Max Tollenaar left his family camping at Lake Waikaremoana to do a five-day tramp. He climbed over Whakataka trig and left an entry in the hut intentions book. Some time after this he struck thick treefall from the devastating Cyclone Bola and was forced to detour. On day four Tollenaar accepted that he was lost, but had ample provisions and a tent. His family alerted the police, who sent 80 searchers out to look for him. Max made his way down to Lake Waikaremoana where, after nine days, the lucky man stumbled on a search team.

See our list of upcoming tramping events and activities across the motu. Have an event you want to feature? Email us the details!

14 Feb: Outdoor Training New Zealand River Safety

Location: West Melton, Canterbury

Rivers are one of the greatest hazards in the New Zealand outdoors - learn how to read a river and where the best place to cross is. More info.

20 Feb: Ngatuhoa Camping Trip

Location: Ngatuhoa

Join the Alpine Sports club for summer camping at the beautiful Ngatuhoa lodge campsite. They have exclusive use of the campsite over this weekend. More info.

21-22 Feb: Outdoor Training New Zealand River Safety

Location: Karangahake Gorge

This course is designed for hikers to help plan for journeys that may involve rivers and bodies of water; to develop river safety skills, including hazard assessment and river crossing techniques. More info.

27 Feb: Wanaka Crag Fest 2026

Location: Wanaka

The New Zealand Alpine Club and Wānaka Climbing Club are pleased to present Wānaka Crag Fest 2026. This event is a sustainable and inclusive rock-climbing event which promotes community and best practice. Enjoy climbing with new and old friends, learn new skills at the climbing clinics, and enjoy the evenings with events and social gatherings. More info.

28 Feb - 1 March: OTNZ Canterbury Bushcraft course

Location: Craigieburn Trails, Castle Hill

This overnight course will endeavour to develop your personal practical skills and prepare you for tramping safely in the outdoors, led by qualified instructors. More info.

6-7 March: Overnight Banks Peninsula Walking Festival

Location: Canterbury

This two-day, guided overnight walk follows a lesser-known route to Rod Donald Hut. Led by Richard Suggate - former Rod Donald Banks Peninsula Trust co-chair- and supported by Sara Templeton, the walk will focus on vision sharing, stories of place, and the work happening across Banks Peninsula. More info.

Answer B - Physical Recreation, Skills, Voluntary Service, Adventurous Journey.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award is a youth development programme for people aged 14-24, designed to encourage personal growth and community involvement through a variety of activities. There are four progressive levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Quiz provided by Pam Hutton/PuzzleBeetle.

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