Last updated July 2026
At Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve, visitors enjoy one of the last stands of river-flat native forest in Marlborough along the Te Hoiere/Pelorus River. The reserve lies on State Highway 6, 54 km from Nelson and 18 km west of Havelock, making it a popular day trip or overnight stop. Clear river waters support swimming, kayaking and fishing, while short walks lead through tall kahikatea, beech and rimu trees. A campground with powered and non-powered sites provides a convenient base, and the area holds cultural significance for Māori and a rich European settlement history.
Practical Information
| Location | State Highway 6, 18 km west of Havelock, Marlborough |
| Distance from Nelson | 54 km (approximately 45-60 minutes drive) |
| Entry fee | Free for day visits |
| Camping | Bookings required; adult $25–$27 per night |
| Pets | Not permitted |
| Facilities | Flush toilets, hot showers, kitchen with gas stoves, picnic areas, parking |
| Best for | Swimming, short walks, picnicking, camping |
About Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve
Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve protects a rare remnant of fertile lowland forest on the river terraces where the Rai and Te Hoiere/Pelorus Rivers meet. The forest features emergent podocarps such as rimu, mataī, miro, tōtara and kahikatea rising above a canopy of beech, kāmahi and tawa. The high-quality river water supports native fish and introduced trout.
Early Māori settlement included a kāinga at the river junction, with the forest and rivers providing food and resources. European exploration and settlement followed the 1842 founding of Nelson, with the first Pelorus Bridge constructed in 1863 and the current road route opening in 1885. The scenic reserve was formally created in 1912 after earlier milling plans were set aside.
Today the reserve offers easy access to river scenery and forest walks. Visitors can swim in designated areas, kayak or fish, and enjoy picnics at riverside spots. The campground sits among tall trees on the riverbank, with both powered and non-powered sites available.
Walking Tracks
Several short, well-formed tracks start near the car parks and campground. The Tawa Walk is a gentle, wheelchair-friendly loop through forest and river terraces. The Totara Walk loops from the Kanuka Picnic Area past an ancient giant tōtara and a mix of podocarp, broadleaf and beech trees.
The Elvy Waterfalls Track branches from the Tawa Walk and follows the river before climbing to two picturesque waterfalls on Elvy Stream. The Circle Loop Track continues as part of the Te Araroa Trail. Longer options such as the Trig K Track are also available. Sturdy footwear is recommended and care should be taken on wet or flooded sections.
Swimming, Kayaking and Water Activities
The clear waters of the Te Hoiere/Pelorus River provide popular swimming holes, especially in summer. Kayaking and tubing are enjoyed on calmer sections, while fishing for trout is also possible. Always check conditions after rain, swim in designated areas, and follow water-safety guidance. No mountain bikes are permitted on reserve tracks.
Camping at Pelorus Bridge
The campground offers powered and non-powered sites on the riverbank. Facilities include flush toilets, hot showers (coin-operated), a communal kitchen with gas stoves at Kahikatea Flat, and picnic tables. Bookings are required year-round, with higher fees and minimum stays over the summer peak. Tap water is available but visitors should follow any boiling advisories. No dump station is on site.
History and Wildlife
The reserve protects forest that once covered much of the region before European milling. Native birds including tūī, kererū and fantails inhabit the canopy, and an endangered native bat population is supported by pest control. The area’s Māori name Te Hoiere reflects its long cultural importance, while the river and bridge have served as key travel routes since the mid-19th century.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the clear river for swimming and the easy, scenic walks through tall native trees. Many appreciate the convenient campground location and the peaceful atmosphere away from crowds.
Families enjoy the short waterfall track and picnic spots, while campers note the good facilities and river views. Reviewers often recommend visiting mid-week to avoid peak summer crowds.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve: Official page with track descriptions, safety information and history.
Department of Conservation – Pelorus Bridge Campground: Current fees, booking details, facilities and rules.
Department of Conservation – Elvy Waterfalls Track: Details on the track to the two waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve?
No, cats, dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted anywhere in the reserve to protect native wildlife.
Is there an entry fee for the reserve?
Day visits are free. Camping fees apply and bookings are required.
What tracks lead to waterfalls?
The Elvy Waterfalls Track offers views of two picturesque waterfalls along streams feeding the Pelorus River.
What facilities are available at the campground?
Flush toilets, hot showers, a communal kitchen with gas stoves, picnic tables and both powered and non-powered sites.
When is the best time to visit for swimming?
Summer months offer the warmest water temperatures, though conditions should always be checked after rain.
Are guided tours available?
No guided tours operate within the reserve; visitors explore independently on the marked tracks.
Is the reserve wheelchair accessible?
Some short tracks such as the Tawa Walk and Circle Walk are wheelchair-friendly, and accessible toilet and shower blocks are provided at the campground.
Can I fish in the river?
Yes, the Te Hoiere/Pelorus River supports trout fishing; check current regulations with Fish & Game New Zealand.
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