Exploring Port Underwood Road
Port Underwood Road in the Marlborough Sounds is a rugged yet rewarding route connecting Rārangi at the north end of Te Koko-o-Kupe / Cloudy Bay to Whanganui / Port Underwood, and then to Picton in Queen Charlotte Sound /Totaranui. Despite its challenging terrain and limited facilities, this drive is worth considering for its stunning views, accessible bays, and diverse walking tracks.
Scenic Highlights and Activities
Starting from Rārangi, the road ascends to 300 metres above the coast, offering breathtaking views. Although the terrain is rugged, there are safe spots to stop and capture the scenery. The route then descends to the access road for Pukatea / Whites Bay, the best beach on this trip. Continuing north, the road winds above the coast of Cook Strait and Port Underwood, with access to several small, picturesque bays.
After 22 km, you reach Oyster Bay, where the road turns west and climbs to a 480-metre pass. The route follows the ridge before descending to Whatamango Bay, an inlet off Queen Charlotte Sound. From there, it skirts the coast around historic Karaka Point to Waikawa Bay, concluding in Picton.
The drive is enveloped in native forest, particularly on the slopes of Tokomaru / Mount Robertson and the Robertson Range. As you near Port Underwood, you'll notice large-scale commercial exotic forests, especially on the north and east sides of the inlet and near the pass above Oyster Bay. Oyster Bay also features a commercial wharf and vessels for mussel farming. While the road is generally quiet, be cautious of commercial vehicles, including logging trucks.
Road Conditions and Travel Tips
The road is sealed from Rārangi to Whites Bay, then mostly unsealed to Oyster Bay. From Oyster Bay to Picton, it is sealed again. The unsealed section is particularly challenging, with winding and narrow stretches. Although the entire route is about 55 km, it takes nearly two hours to drive. Allow extra time for stops to enjoy walks, picnics, and swims, making it a delightful day trip.
For those with additional time, consider a 40 km return drive on the winding, unsealed Tumbledown Bay Road to explore the eastern, more commercially developed side of Port Underwood. This extension offers more secluded bays and beaches.
How to Get There
To embark on this scenic drive, start from Rārangi, accessible from Blenheim via State Highway 1. Follow Rārangi Road to reach the beginning of Port Underwood Road. The journey ends in Picton, where you can explore further attractions in the Marlborough Sounds region, including beautiful Queen Charlotte Drive.
