Itineraries

Nelson and Nelson Lakes

Distance 113kms (To Nelson)
Duration 2hours (To Nelson)
Nelson has a vast array of activities, you can start your trip with a stop at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve, take a dip in the cool refreshing waters before you continue on your way to Nelson. Wake up early on Saturday and visit the Nelson Markets, they are well known for the array of food, and arts and crafts to be found in the many stalls. Take a packed lunch to Tahunanui Beach and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shores. Abel Tasman National park is only an hour from Nelson where you can take a bush walk or enj9y the golden sands and blue waters of Golden Bay. On your travels back to Picton stop at St Arnaud and take in the beauty of the Nelson and Lakes and the Richmond ranges.

Photo: Graham Charles, seeing the Marlborough Sounds the eco way

Golden Bay

Distance 236kms
Duration 3hours.
Golden Bay is at the top of the South island is the epitome of golden sand and clear blue water.
There is an array of activities and places to visit. Abel Tasman National Park allows for you to get in amongst the scenery whether you spend the day bush walking or pitch a tent in one of the designated areas and experience the nocturnal night life.
Take a kayak and experience the many bays at Kaiteriteri or experience the luxury on a Catamaran cruising around watching the dolphins and seals play along the coastline.
Head through to Collingwood, and visit Te Waikoropupu Springs, a natural spring which is constantly flowing and showcases New Zealands natural fresh water ecology., after experiencing one of New Zealands wonders head on the Farewell Spit, the northern most point of the South Island.
4 days is only just long enough to experience this area so allow 5 days to really enjoy the Golden Bay splendor.

Photo: Pupu Springs Dancing Sands: nelsonnz.com website Tourism Nelson

Hanmer Springs

Distance 254kms one way
Time 3hours 27mins

Lounge out in the Hotpools for the weekend, only a 4 hour drive from Picton through some of New Zealands most scenic coastline.
Stop of at Kaikoura for a whale watching trip or swim with the dolphins. From Kaikoura its only another 2 hours until you are in Hanmer Springs.
Nestled away in the Alps this natural hotspring is great in Winter and Summer. www.hanmersprings.co.nz

Nelson

Distance: 117Kms
Duration: 1.5Hours
Nelson is Marlboroughs neighbour and like all good friends we like to compete...compete for SUN! Marlborough and Nelson each year compete to have the top sunshine hours in New Zealand and you know that whether you are in Marlborough or Nelson the sun is sure to shine.
This City allows you to enjoy the hustle and bussle of a busy morning market followed by an afternoon stroll along Tahunanui Beach or you might like to visit the WOW and Car museum.

Photo:Nelson, nelsontourism.com

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

Distance: 60kms
Duration: 45mins
Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve is the mid way point between Picton and Nelson. This area offers you scenic bush walks and the chance to cool off in one of the South island Mountain fed rivers. If you are interested in a little fly fishing the river is also known for its large Rainbow and Brown Trout.

Havelock and Queen Charlotte Drive

Distance 78kms to Picton
Duration 1 Hour 20mins to Picton
Havelock is situated in the Pelorus Sound and is a small seaside fishing town. Visit the marine and watch as they unload the catch of the day, stop off at the Mussell Pot and enjoy the fresh Greenlip Mussels. You may also be interested in jumping onboard one of the many charters that go out into Pelorus sound and catch a snapper or king fish.
On your way back take the scenic route and travel between Pelorus and Queen Charlotte Sounds along the Queen Charlotte Drive. Theis road meanders through native bush and past the many bays that dot the Queen Charlotte Sound. Finish up in Picton for dinner or drive back through to Blenheim (25mins) to dine at one of the many restaurants in the CBD

Kaikoura

Distance 131kms
Duration 1.5hours

Kaikoura is a ocean goers dream. The unique topography of the sea floor allows for Whales to be seen in shallow waters as they dine on Krill and other phytoplankton. There are many cracks and crevices that allow for  the Crayfish to thrive and it is not unusual to see a pod of Dolphins as you drive through. There is also a colony of seals that are always entertaining to watch. When you get to Kaikoura jump into a plane or on a boat and take in the sights that the Whales and other sea life create. On your way back to Blenheim stop off and pick up a Crayfish from the many small Cray business along the road and sit on the beach as you watch the sun set behind the mountains. Kaikoura is never a boring sight always offering something unique to see.

Photo, Whale Tail Kaikoura, Chris McLennan