The small port where the Cook Strait ferries from Wellington dock, at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. The Marlborough Sounds are drowned valleys of bush and quiet bays: walk or bike a section of the Queen Charlotte Track with a water-taxi drop-off, kayak, or take the mail boat. Blenheim's Sauvignon Blanc wineries are 30 minutes south, and the Coastal Pacific train to Kaikōura and Christchurch starts here in season.
Highlights
Cook Strait ferry through the Sounds
Queen Charlotte Track day walk
Sea kayaking in the Sounds
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc tastings
Dolphin cruises
Mail boat run in Pelorus Sound
Things to do
Water taxi to Ship Cove and walk to Resolution BayMorning · 6h
Sea kayaking in Queen Charlotte SoundMorning · 4h
Marlborough winery lunch near BlenheimAfternoon · 4h
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When to go
Best time: November – April
Heads up
Coastal Pacific Train Not Running
The Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch runs only from late September to April. Out of season the InterCity coach meets the ferries; most rental firms also let you pick up a car at the Picton terminal.
