Kayaking Tour 

Paddle & Walk Discover New Zealand

This is a combined sea kayaking and walking tour, which takes place in one of the most beautiful, and unspoiled regions of New Zealand, the stunning Marlborough Sounds.

A labyrinth of inlets, bush-clad islands and finger-like peninsulas form the venue for this comfortable lodge based four day adventure tour in New Zealand. Exploring by kayak and on foot is the only way to discover the true peace and tranquillity of the place and enjoy encounters with interesting New Zealand's flora and fauna. The tour is suitable for people of varying ages and abilities and offers a gentle, fully guided introduction to the mesmerising, moody beauty of the region.

Day 1: Depart Picton
Early morning departure from Picton and transfer to Waikawa, where you meet with Dolphin Watch Marlborough. You join the trip to Motuara Island and with luck will get sightings of dolphins en route and learn about the rich marine environment of Queen Charlotte Sound. The island is a bird sanctuary, protecting the rare robin and saddleback, which you will hope to get sightings of. You are then transferred by boat to Ship Cove, near the entrance to the sound, where you start the walk along the famous Queen Charlotte Track. The five hour walk takes you through luxuriant native forests to Furneaux Lodge, where accommodation is in chalets – each with two rooms.

Day 2: Walking tour
Today you enjoy a marvellous walk around the shore of Endeavour Inlet to Punga Cove. You’ll take a detour to view the Furneaux Falls, which takes you through a superb tract of forest, alive with bird song. Reaching Punga Cove Resort, you enjoy the luxury of private facilities in the chalets.

Day 3: Kayak tour
You transfer by water taxi to Torea Bay, a 30 minutes ride away, where you meet with the sea kayaking team. The double kayaks are mostly used, which are easy to handle and allow you to take turns enjoying the views gliding by. After a safety briefing and practise session, you set off from Torea Bay and spend the day exploring the coves and inlets of Queen Charlotte Sound. At the end of the day, you transfer to the Portage Hotel, where rooms have private facilities.

Day 4: Kayaking and return to Picton
This is the last day of fun tour and relaxation in the Marlborough Sounds and most people find by now they are confident with the paddling. You spend most of the day exploring Grove Arm, a particularly scenic spot. After lunch you paddle back to Picton, arriving at around 4.30 in the afternoon. This is the tour' end.