Marlborough Sounds Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, Marlborough Sounds is a breathtakingly beautiful network of sunken river valleys filled with crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and rugged coastlines. This stunning region is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and opportunities to explore its unique landscape.

Marlborough Sounds is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wealth of options for hiking, kayaking, and sailing. The Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, winds its way through the lush forests and along the rugged coastline, offering spectacular views and a chance to spot native wildlife. For those looking to take to the water, the Sounds are a kayaker's dream, with secluded coves, hidden beaches, and calm waters perfect for exploring by paddle.

In addition to its natural beauty, Marlborough Sounds is also famous for its world-class wineries and vineyards. The region is renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, and a visit to one of the many cellar doors offers the chance to sample some of the finest wines New Zealand has to offer. The picturesque vineyards, set against the backdrop of the Sounds, make for a truly unforgettable wine-tasting experience.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, a cruise through the Sounds is the perfect way to take in the stunning scenery. Several operators offer guided tours, providing the opportunity to spot dolphins, seals, and even rare seabirds in their natural environment. The tranquil waters and secluded bays of the Sounds are also ideal for fishing and diving, with an abundance of marine life to discover beneath the surface.

Alternative names: Elevation: 46 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°11'13"S, 173°56'17"E

Location

MarlboroughNew Zealand

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Marlborough Sounds Top Attractions

Marlborough Sounds Attractions - What to See and Explore

Marlborough Sounds offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Pelorus Sound, Queen Charlotte Sound, Kenepuru Sound. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

41°10'7"S • 173°52'8"E
Pelorus Sound
Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere is the largest of the sounds which make up the Marlborough Sounds at the north of the South Island, New Zealand.
41°15'0"S • 174°0'0"E
Queen Charlotte Sound
Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui is the easternmost of the main sounds of the Marlborough Sounds, in New Zealand's South Island. In August 2014, the name of the sound was officially altered to Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui as part of a Waitangi Tribunal settlement with Te Āti Awa.
41°10'59"S • 174°0'58"E
Kenepuru Sound
Kenepuru Sound is one of the larger of the Marlborough Sounds in the South Island of New Zealand. The drowned valley is an arm of Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere, it runs for 25 kilometres from the northeast to southwest, joining Pelorus Sound a quarter of the way down the latter's path to the Cook Strait.

Day trips

Marlborough Sounds – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Marlborough Sounds, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (Wellington), Wellington Botanic Garden (Wellington), Willis Street (Wellington).

44 milesE
Museum, Art museum
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington
The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, commonly known as Te Papa, stands as a cultural jewel in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital city. This innovative and interactive museum, which opened its doors in 1998, has since redefined the country's...
44 milesE
Lush council-run gardens and native forest
Wellington Botanic Garden, Wellington
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's vibrant capital, the Wellington Botanic Garden offers a lush sanctuary that spans over 25 hectares of landscaped and native forest areas. Established in 1868, this historic park is a veritable treasure trove of horticultural...
44 milesE
Street, Shopping, Shopping district
Willis Street, Wellington
Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Willis Street stands as a bustling testament to the city's vibrant shopping culture. This dynamic shopping district is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering an eclectic mix of retail experiences that cater to a wide...
45 milesE
Interactive animal encounters since 1906
Wellington Zoo, Wellington
Wellington Zoo, nestled in the green hills of the New Zealand capital, is a cherished sanctuary for wildlife and a favorite destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Opened in 1906, this 13-hectare zoological garden is the oldest in the country and has...
41 milesE
Sport venue, Sport, Park
Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park, Wellington
Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, is a premier sport venue nestled in the rugged hills surrounding Wellington, New Zealand. This world-class mountain biking destination offers a network of trails designed to cater to riders of all skill...