From Wellington, looking across the Cook Strait, it is a common sight to see an “Interislander” ferry gracefully pitching and rolling into big seas before it slips through the Tory Channel into the Marlborough Sounds. From such a metropolitan vantage point, it is hard to believe the contrast that awaits the passengers as the ferry glides into the protective confines of the Sounds.

As the ferry makes a berth at Picton, a reminder of the urban haste again emerges noisily from its bowels, briefly disrupting this oasis. But the confusion lasts only until the travellers, cars and trains go their separate ways; and peace descends once again. more

• Nelson & Marlborough Accommodation
• Activites in Nelson & Marlborough

Nelson & Marlborough Feature

Nelson Lakes National Park

Nelson Lakes National Park has two deep gorges carved out by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Today the ice has long melted and lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa remain to make this idyllic spot even more attractive. More Info

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

PLACE

Picton

The quaint town of Picton is the entry point for most travellers to the South Island. Situated in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound, it is where the Cook Strait ferries berth to disgorge trains, cars and travellers.

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ACTIVITY

Fine Dining

New Zealand's appreciation of good food and wine have been a blessing to the Nelson and Marlborough region. Many of the towns and cities have an outstanding selection of eateries offering all kinds of cuisine.

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ROAD TRIP

Picton to Kaikoura

Drive from the peace and tranquillity of Queen Charlotte Sound to sample the greatest collection of wines in New Zealand. Then continue around the Pacific Coast to Kaikoura for a spot of whale watching.

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