Marlborough Sounds

With 1500km of New Zealand’s coastline, Marlborough Sounds is a collection of ancient sunken river valleys filled with the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Forested hills rise steeply from the sea around an intricate coastline of sheltered inlets and sandy bays. The area has three main bodies of water – Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds. The Department of Conservation manages over 50 reserves in this scenic playground.

The Marlborough Sounds lie at the South Island’s north-easternmost point, between Tasman Bay in the west and Cloudy Bay in the south-east. The almost fractal coastline has 1/5th of the length of New Zealand’s coasts. The steep, wooded hills and small quiet bays of the sounds are sparsely populated, as access is difficult. Many of the small settlements and isolated houses are only accessible by boat.

This is one of the most beautiful and tranquil places in New Zealand, endowed with natural beauty, this intricate maze of waterways with its attractive beaches and lush greenery provides for the perfect nature experience. Many visitors to Marlborough arrive by ferry through the deep coves and bays of Tory Channel and Queen Charlotte Sound.

Sail, paddle, kayak, mountain bike, walk or motor through this picturesque maritime area. Fine restaurants and accommodation lodges are scattered throughout the Sound.

To truly get away from it all take a single or multi-day hike along the scenic Queen Charlotte Track. Or stay amongst the secluded bays in waterside accommodation, some only accessible by boat or helicopter.