Queen Charlotte Track

Winding along the forested ridges and pristine coves of the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track is a world-class multi-day walk that combines lush native bush, turquoise waters, and a rich human history. This 70 km route between Ship Cove and Anakiwa offers hikers and mountain bikers a chance to immerse themselves in the sounds' serene beauty, with the constant backdrop of dolphins, birdsong, and the gentle lapping of the sea. Whether you tackle the full trail over three to five days or sample a day section, you'll understand why this is one of New Zealand's most beloved Great Walks.

Highlights & What to See

• Ship Cove: Start or end your journey at this historic bay, where Captain Cook made his first landing in 1770. A monument and sheltered beach make it a perfect picnic spot.
• Furneaux Lodge: This historic resort at the head of Endeavour Inlet offers a slice of luxury with its manicured gardens, jetty, and excellent dining – a great place to rest weary legs.
• Resolution Bay: A secluded cove with a crescent of golden sand, accessible only by track or water. Ideal for a refreshing swim.
• Bay of Many Coves: A stunning, deep indentation in the coast with a private resort and a network of short walks leading to viewpoints over the sounds.
• Mistletoe Bay: A popular eco-camp with a café and kayak hire, perfect for a mid-trek rest or a night under the stars.
• Anakiwa: The southern terminus, where the track meets the Queen Charlotte Drive. Enjoy the calm waters and the adjacent Outward Bound school's activities.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow three to four days to complete the full track, staying overnight at Department of Conservation huts or private lodges. If you're short on time, day walks from Picton or Anakiwa can cover highlights like the Tōtara Flats or the Kenepuru Saddle. Mountain bikers typically ride the track in two days, using water taxis to skip the steepest sections. To truly soak in the atmosphere, add an extra day for kayaking or swimming in the sounds.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Picton: The gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, with the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and a lively waterfront.
• Marlborough Wine Region: Just south of Picton, explore world-class sauvignon blanc at cellar doors in Blenheim and Renwick.
• Kaikōura: A scenic two-hour drive south, famous for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway.
• Abel Tasman National Park: Another stunning coastal track with golden beaches and kayaking opportunities, about two hours west.
• Nelson Lakes National Park: Inland alpine scenery with beech forests and glacial lakes, perfect for a contrast to the sounds.

Please check official sources for current details.