Queen Charlotte Track

Imagine a multi-day hike that unfurls like a living postcard: the Queen Charlotte Track traces the sun-drenched ridgelines and pristine coves of the Marlborough Sounds, where native bush meets turquoise water. This 71 km (44 mi) trail is a perfect blend of coastal beauty and kiwi bushcraft, offering walkers, mountain bikers, and kayakers a taste of New Zealand’s finest sound country.

Highlights & What to See

• Skyline Ridge Views: The track’s high points deliver jaw-dropping panoramas across the entire sounds, with Queen Charlotte Sound on one side and Kenepuru Sound on the other.
• Ship Cove: Start or finish at Captain Cook’s historic landing spot, complete with a monument and sheltered beach – a perfect picnic stop.
• Fur Seal Colonies: Keep an eye out for playful New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks near the water’s edge, especially around Resolution Bay.
• Native Birdlife: Listen for the melodic call of the tūī and the cheeky chatter of the weka as you wander through regenerating forest.
• Water Taxi Services: Use water taxis to create custom day walks or skip sections, adding flexibility to your adventure.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers tackle the full track in 3–5 days, moving at a leisurely pace to soak in the views and swim at secluded beaches. For a shorter taste, a 1–2 day section hike from Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge or Anakiwa is rewarding. Cyclists can complete the entire trail in 1–2 days, while kayakers often combine paddling with walking for a unique multi-sport trip. Plan to overnight at one of the Department of Conservation huts or private lodges along the way.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kaikōura Whale Watching: After your hike, head south to Kaikōura for world-class whale watching and encounters with dusky dolphins and fur seals.
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway: A stunning coastal walk with seal colonies and dramatic rock formations – perfect for a half-day excursion.
• Picton: The gateway to the Marlborough Sounds offers charming cafes, the Edwin Fox maritime museum, and easy access to the track.
• Marlborough Wine Region: Reward your efforts with a wine tour through the famous vineyards of Blenheim, just a short drive away.

Please check official sources for current details.