Travel Guide

State Highway 63

By Aime Fabria
Route Type: Scenic Routes
Published on 2025-09-10 07:29:29

State Highway 63 is a scenic route connecting the upper South Island, offering a journey through the heart of the Nelson Tasman region. A true hidden gem for those seeking a less-traveled path, this highway provides access to stunning lakes and historic sites. Consulting a map is essential to discover the remote beauty and key points of interest along this tranquil corridor.

Interactive Map

State Highway 63

Hidden Gems

State Highway 63

Lake Rotoiti (Nelson Lakes) 🔎 View Source

Best for: Tranquil lakeside views, boating, and short walks.

Hidden Gem For You:

The serene jetty at Kerr Bay offers a peaceful spot away from the main beach area, perfect for reflection and enjoying the mountain vistas.

Visitor Review:

"A beautiful and peaceful lake. The water is so clear and the surrounding mountains make for a stunning backdrop. A great place to stop and stretch your legs."
- TripAdvisor Reviewer (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Best Season or Time of Day to Visit:

Summer and autumn for the best weather and calm water conditions. Early morning offers the most serene atmosphere and best light for photography.

Personal Tips & Local Insights:

Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many tables. The sandfly population is notorious, so strong insect repellent is non-negotiable.

Safety and Accessibility:

The main jetty and Kerr Bay area are easily accessible. The lake can be cold, so caution is advised for swimmers. Always check weather conditions before heading out on the water.

Suggested Itineraries:

Combine a stop here with a walk on one of the short DOC tracks like the Peninsula Walk before continuing on SH63 towards St Arnaud or Murchison.

Packing Suggestions:

Insect repellent, picnic supplies, swimwear and a towel, camera, and a windproof jacket as weather can change quickly.

Cultural or Historical Context:

Lake Rotoiti is within the Nelson Lakes National Park, a landscape shaped by glaciers. The area is of great significance to Māori, with traditional stories (pūrākau) associated with the lakes and land.

Unique Photo Spots:

The jetty provides leading lines towards the mountains. For a classic shot, capture the iconic view of the lake with the pier and the Travers Range in the background.

Fun Facts or Trivia:

The name Rotoiti means 'small lake' in Māori, while its neighbouring lake, Rotoroa, means 'long lake'.

The Owen River Tavern 🔎 View Source

Best for: A classic rural pub meal and a refreshing drink in a historic setting.

Hidden Gem For You:

This authentic country pub is a beloved local institution, offering a genuine slice of rural New Zealand life and a welcome break on the long road.

Visitor Review:

"Stopped in for a beer and a bite. Great little pub with friendly staff and good pub food. Exactly what you want to find on a road trip."
- Google Reviews Contributor (⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Best Season or Time of Day to Visit:

Any time of year. A perfect lunch stop or an end-of-day destination for dinner. Evenings can be lively with locals.

Personal Tips & Local Insights:

Try their famous beef burger or a classic steak sandwich. It's a great place to chat with locals and get insights about the area.

Safety and Accessibility:

Standard pub accessibility. Designated drivers should be mindful if stopping for a refreshment.

Suggested Itineraries:

An ideal lunch stop when traveling between Murchison and Nelson. It breaks up the journey perfectly.

Packing Suggestions:

Just an appetite and perhaps a curiosity about local culture.

Cultural or Historical Context:

Country pubs like the Owen River Tavern have long served as vital social hubs in remote rural communities throughout New Zealand.

Unique Photo Spots:

The exterior of the classic wooden pub building, often with flags flying, makes for a charming photographic subject representing rural NZ.

Fun Facts or Trivia:

The tavern is named after the nearby Owen River, a tributary of the Buller River.

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