Picton: Gateway to the Marlborough Sounds
Picton, located at the northern tip of the South Island in the Marlborough Sounds, is more than just a transit point for ferry services like the Interislander and Bluebridge. With its beach, scenic reserve, and marina, Picton provides a delightful setting for relaxation and exploration. The town's cafes and bars provide a welcoming atmosphere, making it an appealing stop for travellers. There is also the excellent Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.
Exploring the Harbour and Beyond
Picton Harbour serves as the gateway to the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, offering numerous opportunities for boating and exploration throughout the Marlborough Sounds. You can choose from various charter services, boat hires, and water taxis available near the marina.
For those interested in scenic drives, the spectacular Queen Charlotte Drive and Port Underwood Road both begin in Picton, offering breathtaking views and access to coastal landscapes.
Tropical Vibe, Ecosanctuary and Trails
On a sunny day, Picton exudes a tropical vibe with its blue skies, golden sands, and palm trees. The green forests on the surrounding hills enhance the picturesque setting.
On the northeast side of the town is the Kaipūpū Peninsula, home to the Kaipūpū Sanctuary, which features a 2.7 km easy looped forest walking trail and is rich in birdlife. Access is by water taxi. On the northwest side is a long pointed ridge, known as the Snout. This also has walking and cycling tracks, accessible by road.
History of Picton
Picton was originally home to Te Āti Awa and other iwi, who used the sheltered waters for fishing, trade, and transport. During the late 1820s and 1830s, the region was significantly impacted by the Musket Wars. Ngāti Toa, led by Te Rauparaha, played a dominant role in the Marlborough region, attacking and displacing local iwi, including Rangitāne and Ngāti Kuia. Te Āti Awa, allies of Ngāti Toa, later migrated south and settled in the Picton area, occupying land and forming new communities in the aftermath of the conflict.
The invasion coincided with the establishment of the first whaling stations in the Marlborough Sounds, bringing Māori into regular contact with European whalers, resulting in both cooperation and tension. European settlement formally began in the 1840s, and the town of Picton was officially laid out in 1850, named after Sir Thomas Picton. It grew as a port town and the gateway between the North and South Islands.
Getting to Picton
To reach Picton from Wellington, you can take a ferry, a three-hour trip. Picton is also the northernmost point of State Highway 1 and the main trunk railway in the South Island, providing easy access by road and rail. From Blenheim, it is a 26-minute drive (28 km). From Christchurch, it is 4.5 hours and 341 km.
Nearby places to visit include Waikawa, Karaka Point, Whatamanga Bay and Oyster Bay on Port Underwood Road. On Queen Charlotte Road, there are Governors Bay, Ngākuta Bay and Momorangi Bay.
