3 minute read
Picton Must Do's
PICTON HARBOUR Where picturesque village meets a bustling harbour. Watch the ferries coming and going from Wellington and dine on the foreshore, this busy marina never fails to feel jubilant.
QUEEN CHARLOTTE SOUND Picton is on the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound. Explore by boat, bike, kayak and car, or take to the skies.
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THE KENEPURU ROAD Enjoy a scenic drive, windows down and views spilling through. This 100km route from Picton winds around the coast of Kenepuru Sound, presenting two-and-a-half hours of jaw-dropping views.
EDWIN FOX SHIP AND VISITOR CENTRE Home to the world’s oldest merchant ship. Built in 1853, the Edwin Fox remains wonderfully intact, despite its rich and colourful past. Step inside to learn more.
PICTON HERITAGE & WHALING MUSEUM Discover the stories that shaped the town you see today, including its whaling history. This period, albeit confronting, is conveyed via comprehensive displays.
COASTAL PACIFIC TRAIN Operating between Picton, through Kaikōura to Christchurch, taking in the wine growing region of Blenheim to the rugged Kaikōura mountain ranges. Be treated to views of marine wildlife and across the Canterbury Plains, all from the comfort of your carriage.
TIROHANGA TRACK Stride out on a short but steep track through tree ferns to a hilltop graced with good views. Another good walk from Picton is to Bob’s Bay – 20 minutes from Picton wharf.
SWIM WITH DOLPHINS Swim beside these wild dolphins in the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds. It’s bucket-list marvellous.
CRUISE & STAY SAIL to a secluded lodge. Following a scenic cruise, both Beachcomber Cruises and Cougar Line drop their guests at accommodations often only accessible from the water.
ORCAS Between October and March, orca visit Marlborough Sounds, often congregating close to shore. To see them, join a dedicated cruise.
THE LINK PATHWAY This 42km walking and mountain bike track connects Picton, Anakiwa and the Queen Charlotte Track, with the final link to Havelock completed in 2021.
ART GALLERIES The Diversion Gallery is an emporium of contemporary fine art near Picton’s waterfront; Good Day Gallery sits on High Street, open Thursday to Sunday and The Stevenson Collection sits just behind. A museum-cum-private art collection, free tours take place most days at 11am.
THE SEAFOOD ODYSSEA CRUISE A cruise for the senses; treat your eyes to a landscape dotted with fish farms, and your taste buds to a mountain of local seafood and wine.
KAIPŪPŪ POINT WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Ten minutes by boat or water taxi from Picton in Shakespeare Bay. If you’re feeling energetic, you could even kayak here. The 2.7km circular walking track snakes through bush-clad hills, home to native flora and fauna.
Friends on the Interisalnder Ferry - credit MarlboroughNZ
