Queen Charlotte Track
Photo copyright: Destination Marlborough
via New Zealand Cycle Trail
- Grade: Intermediate - Advanced
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Total Length: 70km
- Location: Marlborough
The Queen Charlotte Track, located at the top of New Zealand's South Island in the Marlborough Sounds, offers a spectacular trip through the Marlborough Sounds, from the historic Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in the Grove Arm giving some amazing views of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. Stretching between the Queen Charlotte and Keneperu Sound is the 70km track renowned for its stunning views and contrasting landscape, historical landmarks and wonderful variety of native bush and wildlife. You will experience encounters with native birds such as the inquisitive weka. Take the opportunity to enjoy local hospitality at the variety of cafes and accommodation, from campsites to luxury lodges, located along the track. Ride the entire track or sections of your choice, using the easy road access or boat transport from Picton. You can even have your gear transported for you by boat.
Getting to the Queen Charlotte Track is easiest from the town of Picton, which is 28km from Blenheim and 105km from Nelson. Take the ferry from Wellington, catch a bus or train or drive yourself there. You can fly to Blenheim or Koromiko airports and then take a shuttle to Picton. The closest international airports are Wellington or Christchurch.
Mobile phone coverage is limited on the track so it is advised that you do take a personal locator beacon. Also make sure to carry as much water with you as you can. There are water tanks at two DOC shelters along the way but these are not guaranteed to have water in dry summer months.
For more information, view the Queen Charlotte Track page provided by NZ Cycle Trail.
Marlborough
Find out more about the Marlborough region by following the links below:
- Marlborough Accommodation
- Marlborough Attractions and Activities
- Marlborough Cuisine and Dining
- Marlborough Tours
- Marlborough Transport
- Marlborough Visitor Information
All Marlborough accommodation can be booked online.
