St Arnaud, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for St Arnaud, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to St Arnaud, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to St Arnaud, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in St Arnaud, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for St Arnaud, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in St Arnaud, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for St Arnaud, New Zealand by month

January

If you vacation in St Arnaud during January, you might find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in St Arnaud is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

Traveling to St Arnaud in March, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you vacation in St Arnaud during April, you are likely to find that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, St Arnaud is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for St Arnaud, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June here can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in St Arnaud is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you are traveling to St Arnaud in August, you will notice that it is brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in St Arnaud can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in St Arnaud during October, you will probably see that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to St Arnaud in November, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you visit St Arnaud during December, you are likely to notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in St Arnaud. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Department of Conservation Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in St Arnaud, New Zealand

St Arnaud, located in the stunning Nelson Tasman region of New Zealand, is a popular tourist destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Here are some of the top visitor attractions in and around St Arnaud.

1. Nelson Lakes National Park:

Nelson Lakes National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking. The park offers a range of walking trails and a variety of levels which cater for all ages and fitness levels.

2. Lake Rotoiti:

The picturesque Lake Rotoiti is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. With its stunning mountain backdrop, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up nature.

3. Rainbow Ski Area:

Rainbow Ski Area is a popular ski-resort located just 90 minutes from St Arnaud. The resort attracts both beginner and advanced skiers and has a range of terrain that caters to all skill levels.

4. Mount Robert:

Mount Robert offers breathtaking views over Nelson Lakes National Park and is an ideal place for hiking, with trails ranging from short walks to the more challenging full-day hikes.

5. The Alpine Lodge:

The Alpine Lodge in St Arnaud is a popular destination for visitors seeking accommodation and a hub for outdoor activities. The lodge offers a range of activities such as skiing, kayaking, fishing or horse riding.

6. Lake Rotoroa:

Located close to St Arnaud, Lake Rotoroa offers excellent fishing opportunities, with its abundant trout and salmon population.

7. St Arnaud Range:

The St Arnaud range features stunning views and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking - it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

8. Beekeeping Tours:

Beekeeping tours are popular in the region; visitors can see a working hive and taste local honey. Additionally, visitors can learn more about bees and their importance to local flora and fauna.

9. The Saint Arnault Track:

The Saint Arnault Track is a picturesque 3 to 4-hour walk that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, streams and native forest.

10. Adventure Playground:

The Adventure Playground in St Arnaud is perfect for families with kids. With its giant slides, swings, climbing frames, and maze, it offers hours of active fun within a safe, secure environment.

In conclusion, St Arnaud offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. With its stunning scenery, exhilarating outdoor activities, and charming attractions, it’s no wonder that it’s become one of New Zealand’s top tourist destinations.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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