region
REGION
The seaport of Picton is the base for many activities for the Marlborough Sounds.
The Picton foreshore is right on the doorstep of Oxley’s Rock Apartments. Watch the waves lapping at the shore with the occasional Sea Kayak being launched from the sandy beach.
The Marlborough Sounds consists of over 1500km of coastline with many save havens to anchor and enjoy the peace and beauty.
Transport – Getting here.
By Sea – Picton is the home of the north bound Cook Strait Ferries which provide daily services connecting the north and south islands with Wellington, the capital of New Zealand.
By Air – There is a nearby airport at Koromiko, a 7 minute drive from Oxley’s Rock. Sounds Air operates a daily air service to Wellington. Blenheim Airport is a 30 minute drive from Oxley’s Rock and provides direct air links to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
By Road – Picton is a 90 minute drive from Nelson. Christchurch to Picton is 4 hours, and the Nelson Lakes area is an easy 2 hour drive.
By Train – There is a daily train connection between Picton and Christchurch.
Things to do -
Being a seaport, many activities are based from the Picton foreshore.
Seakayaking is a popular and rewarding activity with 3 local operators
www.soundswild.com – Nigel and his crew can provide you with a guided or freedom kayak rental.
www.marlboroughsounds.com – Sara and Dave are located on the foreshore and is the largest company, able to handle bigger groups.
www.southernwildness.com Steve and Juilet offer a personal service with many options
Queen Charlotte Track
Walking the Queen Charlotte Track is a popular pastime for all ages. There are daily boat services to Ships cove, the being of the track.
www.cougarline.co.nz
www.boatrides.co.nz
www.mailboat.co.nz
Guided walks can be arranged with Marlborough Sounds Adventure Tours or Southern Wildness.
Mountain biking is permitted on parts of the track during peak season, and all of the track during the off season. For details see:
www.cyclenz.com
Wine of Marlborough
Marlborough as a region is best known for producing some of the worlds best white wines. Picton is only a 20 minute drive to the wine region of Marlborough, there are very good guided wine tours available from Picton with Sounds Connection, see: www.marlboroughwines.com