Nelson Lakes National Park lies at the head of the Southern Alps and features majestic mountain ranges and the breathtaking lakes of Rotoroa and Rotoiti at its heart.The steep mountains that surround ‘Little lake’ (Rotoiti) and ‘Long lake’ (Rotoroa) reward walkers with spectacular views.Legend tells the story of Māori chief and explorer Rākaihautū who came to Aotearoa and travelled with his people to the great mountains. With his kō (digging stick), Rākaihautū dug enormous holes that filled with water, creating the lakes which remain today. He also filled them with kai (food) for those who followed. The food – eel, freshwater mussels and waterfowl – was important for Māori travelling the pounamu (greenstone) trails to and from the West Coast.