Queen Charlotte Track

Stretching 71 kilometres through the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's premier walking and mountain-biking trails. It weaves along forested ridgelines and pristine coastline, offering panoramic views of the shimmering sounds, secluded coves, and lush native bush. This is a journey where land meets sea — you can hike a section, pedal the whole thing, or combine it with water taxis and kayaking. The track is well-maintained and dotted with comfortable lodges and campsites, making it accessible for both independent adventurers and those who prefer a touch of luxury.

Highlights & What to See

• Ship Cove – The historic starting point where Captain Cook made landfall; a sheltered beach framed by towering forest.
• Resolution Bay – A serene cove with a short side trail to a waterfall and swimming hole.
• Furneaux Lodge – A iconic historic lodge with waterfront dining, perfect for a well-earned rest or an overnight stay.
• Mistletoe Bay – A peaceful inlet with a sandy beach, eco-cabins, and a café; great for a lunch stop.
• Echo Peak – The highest point on the track (487 m), rewarding hikers with sweeping 360-degree views of Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepuru Sound.
• Portage – A charming settlement where the track crosses the narrow isthmus between the two sounds; here you can find accommodation and a general store.
• Anakiwa – The southern terminus, a laid-back village with a jetty, picnic spots, and a sense of accomplishment.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers take 3–5 days to complete the full track, staying overnight at lodges or DOC huts. Mountain bikers can tackle it in 1–2 days. If you're short on time, pick a section — the Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge stretch (15.5 km) is a popular day walk with stunning coastal views. You can also combine the track with water transport: walk one way and boat back, or kayak alongside the trail for a multi-sport adventure.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Picton – The gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, with a vibrant waterfront, the Edwin Fox maritime museum, and ferry connections to the North Island.
• Blenheim – The heart of Marlborough wine country, offering dozens of cellar doors, bike trails through vineyards, and the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
• Marlborough Sounds – Explore other walking tracks like the Nydia Track or take a cruise through the sounds for dolphin spotting and sea kayaking.
• Kaikōura – A scenic 2-hour drive south, famous for whale watching, seal colonies, and fresh crayfish.
• Nelson Lakes National Park – About 2.5 hours west, with alpine lakes, beech forests, and tramping trails for a different South Island experience.

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