Picton, New Zealand

The Gateway to Marlborough Sounds

A seaside town situated close to the head of Queen Charlotte Sound on the South Island, Picton is a great jumping off point for exploring the Marlborough Sounds. Like most of New Zealand, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Choose your own adventure and go fishing, swimming, bird watching, or visit the playful fur seal pups at their colony near the waterfall at Ohau Point. Bring your walking shoes and walk to the Snout—located between Picton and Waikawa Bay, this peninsula is still wild and untamed. There are tracks and trails for all abilities, from a few minutes-long stroll, so a full-scale hiking adventure.

Oenophiles will also be interested to know that Picton is less than half an hour away from the world famous Marlborough wine region. Explore more than 35 cellar doors—from small family producers, to international operations. Pair a glass of acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc with another regional delicacy, greenshell mussels.

And when it’s time to wave goodbye to Picton, be sure to stay above deck to see the incredible sights of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Sailing through should be a bucket-list item for any world-traveler.