The Rotoiti Lodge has been a popular venue over the years for many different types of community and family groups during weekends and school holidays since its establishment in 1968.

The attraction to this area for many is its scenic beauty, the grandeur of the mountains and the network of tracks that explore Nelson Lakes National Park's glacial features, tranquil beech forests and lakes. Both short walks and full-day walks are possible, making St Arnaud an ideal place for all ages and capabilities. The St Arnaud Department of Conservation Area Office can provide comprehensive information on Park activities, Ph 03 521 1820 or check out this link to their site DoC Nelson Lakes Website

In 1996, the Department of Conservation launched a major initiative in the Park to tackle conservation on the mainland. Known as the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project, its exciting aim is to create a sanctuary with fewer pests, or "mainland island" in the honeydew beech forests surrounding Lake Rotoiti. This project has been highly successful and has markedly  enriched the flora and fauna of the area. Several short walk tracks, some beginning just metres away from the Rotoiti Lodge, will take day walkers through the Recovery Project area.

Today, the forest is rejuvenated and rich in native bird life. Honeyeaters, such as the bellbird and tui are numerous and insectivorous birds, which include the bush robin, rifleman, tomtit and fantail are present in good numbers. Three species of native parrot, the Kaka, Kea and yellow crowned Kakariki, while not abundant, are often encountered by visitors while walking the tracks in the area.