Queen Charlotte Track

Stretching 70 km along the sun-drenched ridges and sheltered coves of the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks — a multi-day tramp that delivers jaw-dropping coastal views, lush native bush, and a sense of serene isolation. Whether you tackle the full trail or a day section, you’ll be rewarded with turquoise waters, golden beaches, and a rich history of Māori and early European settlement.

Highlights & What to See

• Ship Cove: The northern trailhead where Captain Cook made repeated landings; visit the monument and explore the sheltered beach.
• Furneaux Lookout: A short side trip offering panoramic vistas over Queen Charlotte Sound and the outer islands.
• Punga Cove & Bay of Many Coves: Idyllic spots for a swim or kayak, with calm waters perfect for paddling.
• Echo Peak: The highest point on the track, with 360° views of both Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.
• Mistletoe Bay: A peaceful campsite and eco-village, ideal for a rest stop and spotting native birds like tui and wood pigeon.
• Anakiwa: The southern terminus, where you can relax at the water’s edge or explore the nearby historic wharf.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 3 to 5 days to walk the full track end-to-end, staying at Department of Conservation huts or private lodges. Most walkers tackle it in 4 days, with daily stages of 12–20 km. If you’re short on time, day walks from Picton, Anakiwa, or Ship Cove offer rewarding samples — the section from Ship Cove to Furneaux Lookout is a popular half-day option. Many visitors combine walking with water taxis to shorten or customize their itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Picton: The gateway to the Sounds, with the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and a buzzing waterfront.
• Marlborough Wine Region: Just south of Picton, famous for Sauvignon Blanc — add a day for cellar door tours.
• Kaikōura: A 2-hour drive south, renowned for whale watching and seal colonies.
• Abel Tasman National Park: North of Nelson, offering golden beaches and coastal kayaking — great for a second Great Walk.
• Nelson Lakes National Park: Inland alpine scenery with hiking and trout fishing, about 3 hours from Picton.

Please check official sources for current details.