New Zealand Guide
Marlborough, Nelson and Kaikoura
The South Island kicks off spectacularly. The whole northern section is supremely alluring, from the indented bays and secluded hideaways of the Marlborough Sounds and the sweep of golden beaches around Nelson, to an impressive array of national parks, sophisticated wineries around Marlborough and the natural wonders of Kaikoura. In fact, if you had to choose only one area of New Zealand to visit, this would be a strong contender.
Most visitors travel between the North Island and the South Island by ferry, striking land at the town of Picton – drab in the winter, lively in the summer and surrounded by the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Here, bays full of unfathomably deep water lap at tiny beaches, each with its rickety boat jetty, and the land rises steeply to forest or stark pasture.
Highlights
1 The Queen Charlotte Track This beautiful multi-day hike is make all the more manageable by staying in great backpackers and B&Bs, and having your bags carried for you.
2 Nelson A vibrant arts community, vineyards on the doorstep, a laid-back atmosphere and great weather combine to make Nelson an essential stop.
3 Abel Tasman National Park Crystal-clear water and golden beaches are rewards for hiking the lush Coast Track or kayaking the myriad inlets and islands.
4 Farewell Spit tours A surprising array of wildlife can be seen on four- wheel-drive tours along this thin strip of ocean-girt desert.
5 Heaphy Track The huge range of dramatic scenery and final sense of achievement puts this Great Walk up with the best.
6 Marlborough Wine Country No trip to this area is complete without supping Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand's most famous wine region.
7 Kaikoura Whale-watching and dolphin-swimming trips from this pretty town are the highlight of many a visitor's trip.