Marlborough Sounds - South Island, New Zealand

Marlborough Sounds is a pocket of paradise featuring islands, coves, waterways and delightful bays rising abruptly from the water to rugged, lush green wilderness and cleared farmland. The unique area was formed by the sea flooding its deep valleys after the Ice Age, over 12,000 years ago.

Marlborough Sounds Activities

The Sounds' main town is Picton, which is the dropoff point for Queen Charlotte Sound. Cruises and water taxis provide access to the Queen Charlotte Track, a 67 kilometre (42 mile) scenic walk or mountain bike ride. The track begins at Ship Cove and ends at Anakiwa. It is a well marked track, and is suitable for moderately fit people.

The best known road in the Marlborough Sounds is Queen Charlotte Drive, a scenic route connecting Picton and Havelock. It is about a half day journey and its highlights are stunning views of the region's waterways and lookout points and visits to picturesque beaches for swimming and picnics.

The best way to get around the Sounds is by boat, as large parts are only accessible by sea. Scheduled and on-demand water taxis service most points along the Queen Charlotte Track. The road system has been extended and much of the area is accessible by car with sealed and gravel roads. There are no buses servicing the area.

Marlborough Sounds Accommodation

There are almost 30 camping grounds throughout the Sounds, all providing water and toilet facilities. There are also some lodges, retreats, B&B's and backpacker hostels as well as a selection of homestays. Many places are only accessible via water taxi, which add to their charm even more.

LooknbookNZ can arrange your Marlborough Sounds accommodation and Marlborough Sounds activities letting you and your family/friends to have an action packed holiday in the delightful Marlborough Sounds.