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Lake Brunner, West Coast: Still Water, Trout and the TranzAlpine
Updated: Oct 11
After the wild surf of the coast, Lake Brunner is a deep breath. The West Coast's largest lake is stained dark by tannins from the surrounding forest, and on a still day that inky water turns into a perfect mirror of the mountains and trees.
Lake Brunner, well known for reflections, West Coast Lake Brunner, wetlands, West Coast Lake Brunner, West Coast favourite fishing destination for locals
Inchbonnie: the quiet side
Inchbonnie, on the lake's southern shore, is a local secret. The road meanders around the lake past small beaches and quiet coves, with the iconic views of drowned trees against the ranges. A luxury lodge, once known as Mitchells, sits on the southern edge of the lake and has long been a favourite with anglers.
Carew Falls
A short track leads through lush rainforest to Carew Falls, where water-sculpted granite boulders invite you to sit a while. It's about an hour return, starting on the Kumara–Inchbonnie Road near the lodge.
Moana: the busy side
At the lake's northern end, Moana is where the action is. Boats are hitched to every second 4WD, the campground fills up in summer, and anglers swap stories about the size of their catch. Lake Brunner is famous for its brown trout, so check the fishing licence rules before you cast. Hire a boat, kayak or paddleboard, or swim off the jetty on a hot day.
Moana Railway Station
The much-photographed 1940 station is a welcoming sight for TranzAlpine passengers, and the train still stops here between Christchurch and Greymouth. It's the best selfie spot in town.
Bush walks
Easy walks lead from Moana into native forest, crossing the Arnold River on a swing bridge.
Lake Brunner at a glance
Where: About 40 minutes inland from Greymouth, or reached by TranzAlpine train
Time needed: Half a day, or a peaceful overnight stay
Best for: Reflections, kayaking, trout fishing, bush walks and a break from the coast
Where to stay
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Plan your visit
Drive the Greymouth inland day trip via Kumara, Lake Brunner and Moana
Make Greymouth your base with my Greymouth travel guide
Planning the whole coast? Kumara, Ross, Lake Brunner and Blackball are easy detours from New Zealand's Great West Coast Road Trip, my guide to the full drive from Westport to Haast.
FAQs
How far is Lake Brunner from Greymouth?
About 40 minutes' drive inland to Moana. The TranzAlpine train also stops at Moana station.
How long is the Carew Falls walk?
About an hour return through rainforest, starting on the Kumara–Inchbonnie Road near the lodge at the southern end of Lake Brunner.
Why is Lake Brunner so dark?
Tannins from the surrounding forest stain the water, which creates beautiful mirror reflections on still days.
