Queen Charlotte Track Explained: A Complete Guide

Many of our guests visiting the Marlborough Sounds choose to spend a day or two on the Queen Charlotte Track. With so many route options and combinations, deciding how to spend your time here can be tricky, especially if you don’t know the area. To help, we’ve enlisted the expertise of Aaron Price and Natalie Sutton, local owners of Sea Kayak Adventures, to demystify the options and share their best advice.

Queen Charlotte Track at a Glance

• Location: Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds, South Island, New Zealand
• Nearest airport: Blenheim, around a 1-hour flight from Auckland, followed by a 30-minute transfer to Picton
• Length: 70km (approximately 45 miles) in its entirety
• Options: Walking, mountain biking and kayaking, as either day trips or a 3–5 day multi-day adventure
• Accommodation: Plenty of on-track options, plus choices around Blenheim and the wider Sounds
• Access: Anakiwa, Mistletoe Saddle, Torea Saddle and Kenepuru Saddle are reachable by road. Anakiwa, Mistletoe Bay, Torea Bay, Camp Bay, Endeavour Inlet, Resolution Bay and Ship Cove are accessible by water taxi or ferry

Why Spend Time on the Queen Charlotte Track?

Most of our guests have around 2–4 days to explore the Marlborough Sounds, and the Queen Charlotte Track makes the most of every one of them. Stunning native bush, abundant wildlife and rich history combine to create a truly unique landscape. With a seamless network of cruises, pack transfers, resorts and lodges, the track suits all fitness levels and abilities. Add in the region’s excellent food and wine, and it’s easy to see why the Queen Charlotte Track shines whether you’re here for one day or five.

Best Day Walks on the Track

For an easier day walk, the Anakiwa to Mistletoe Bay route is a great choice. Paired with a water taxi back, it winds through some of the most mature native bush in the region.

For a more challenging option, the Torea Bay to Camp Bay section, known locally as the “Jewel in the Crown,” is a 24km ridge-line walk with spectacular views over both the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. Water taxis run regularly and are easy to arrange.

The Walk, Bike & Kayak Combo

For a multi-day adventure combining all three activities:

• Day 1: Water taxi to Ship Cove, then walk to Furneaux Lodge before transferring to Punga Cove for the night
• Day 2: Mountain bike along the track to Portage Bay (a scenic road ride is also available for non-bikers)
• Day 3: Kayak from Portage Bay to Anakiwa, exploring beaches and bays along the way

Your bags are transferred each day, so you’ll only need to carry water, lunch, a spare layer and your camera. Shorter one and two-day combos are also available.

Best Time of Year to Visit

January and February bring the hottest, sunniest weather, but these are also the busiest months. March and April tend to be quieter, with more settled weather while still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, making this our recommended time to visit.

What to Pack

For a day hike or bike ride, sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, as the track includes tree roots and rocky sections. New Zealand’s weather can change quickly, so pack a waterproof jacket, an extra thermal layer, a water bottle and your camera.

For a day kayak, bring:

• Swimsuit and towel
• Sunglasses and sun hat
• Insect repellent and sunblock
• A warm, non-cotton top
• A windbreaker or raincoat
• A full change of clothes and footwear
• Sandals or footwear suitable for getting wet
• Camera and water bottle

Guided or Self-Guided?

Both options suit different travellers. A freedom rental gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace after a full safety briefing. A guided trip offers deeper insight into the local flora, fauna and history, plus access to hidden spots and an added layer of safety from fully qualified guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to walk the entire Queen Charlotte Track?
Most guests complete the full 70km track over 3–5 days, though shorter one and two-day sections are popular for those with less time.

What are the main pick-up and drop-off points along the track?
Key points include Ship Cove, Endeavour Inlet (Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove), Torea Bay, Mistletoe Bay and Anakiwa, with water taxis running throughout the Sounds.

Is the Queen Charlotte Track suitable for beginners?
Yes, while classified as an easy walk, some sections are more challenging. Local operators can recommend routes suited to your fitness level.

Do I need to bring my own food and water?
Accommodation along the track offers full restaurant facilities for evening meals. Packed lunches can be arranged, but water should be carried during the day.

Plan Your Marlborough Sounds Adventure

Ready to experience the Queen Charlotte Track for yourself? Explore more of the region with our Marlborough destination guide, or browse our Accommodation – New Zealand collection for the perfect base. Contact us today at info@luxuryadventures.co.nz to start planning your tailor-made walking, biking or kayaking adventure.