Across Cook Strait from Wellington, and just north of Picton in New Zealand’s South Island, lies the waterworld wonderland of the Marlborough Sounds.
The Marlborough Sounds run beside many islands and form coves, inlets, streams and various other waterways which are a virtual paradise for man and sealife alike.
The sounds are as much a fisherman’s haven as the active outdoor person’s playground. Go fishing, or swim with the dolphins. Or chat up a seal.
Take the ferry from Wellington
The major New Zealand city closest to the Marlborough Sounds is Wellington, the country’s capital, which lies at the southern tip of the North Island just across the water from Picton.
The Interislander ferry shuttles between Wellington and Picton with the smaller Lynx doing summer crossings as well.
If coming from Christchurch, Picton is 350 kilometres north on Highway 1. The drive should take four to five hours, allowing for rest stops. Or you can take the train.
Attractions and activities
The visitor centre at Picton is a must if you haven’t yet organised what you plan to do in the Marlborough Sounds. There are any number of attractions and activities to consider.
Find out the best spots for swimming, diving, kayaking or cruising the sounds. There should be tours you can join, unless you prefer exploring the area by yourself.
You can organise or join dolphin or whale watch cruises from either Picton or further down the coast at Kaikoura. Or you can swim with the seals.
Walk the walk
For those interested in tramping, which is the New Zealand term for hiking or walking, the Queen Charlotte Track should certainly pose a challenge.
You can do the whole 58-kilometre track from Ship Cove to Anakiwa in three to four days or you can simply do sections using boats to drop you off at starting points and pick you up at the end of the sections chosen.
As well, there are many scenic walks around Picton of varying distances and grades of difficulty.
