Spotlight on the

With plenty of things to see and do, Picton and the Marlborough Sounds are a virtual playground for outdoor lovers, art enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike.

Starting on the waterfront and main town centre, art galleries, gift shops fashion, hair and beauty boutiques will keep you busy. You can also browse the diverse range of local artists, fine art works, sculptures, jewellery and collaborative creations.

After working up an appetite visit one of the wide range of eateries that offer everything from delicious cabinet foods and takeaways for the foreshore to sumptuous fine dining experiences.

An area of Marlborough that is steeped in history, the well-regarded local museum boasts a marvellous collection of signifi- cant artefacts, photographs and documents relating to the area and the historical shipwreck the Edwin Fox, will fascinate even those hardest to please.

If being on the water is more your style, there is an abundance of coves and coastline to discover in the scenic playground which plays host to three major bodies of water; Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds. There are a host of cruise and pack tour options to choose from and must-do mail boat tours to choose from while exploring the magical inlets, estuaries and waterways of the stunning Marlborough Sounds – or even cruise to Wellington for the day! Choose to stay in Picton’s town- ship, the surrounding settlements, or relax amongst the secluded bays in waterside accommodation, some of which are only accessible by boat or helicopter.

There are options to suit all travellers, holiday makers, budgets and itineraries to help make your trip a special one.

A special piece of paradise surrounded by native forest and epic scenery, walking trails in the area range from a few minutes to a few hours and even a few days. Trek to a lighthouse at the edge of a reef or a resort at the brink of the Sounds. Stay in a tent or a hut, a bach or a luxury lodge, the options are endless!

One of the country’s most iconic walks, Queen Charlotte Track,