Dreaming of the Marlborough Sounds
If you’re itching for a road trip this summer, then book a few days away to the Marlborough Sounds. Take a drive down our beautiful North Island and head south to catch the Interislander Ferry to make your way across to the South Island.
With Rite Price Rentals, you’ll be able to book the perfect vehicle for your trip. We have plenty of car rental or van hire options to suit you and your family or friends.
Here are some fun and beautiful things to do and see while exploring the stunning Marlborough Sounds.
- Walk or bike the Queen Charlotte Track: This is a beautiful way to spend some time in the Marlborough sounds. This 70 km walking/biking trail winds its way through stunning native forest and high mountain ridges which overlook the Marlborough Sounds. If you’re feeling up to it, you can spend a few days doing the multi day hike or there are alternative options to explore certain sections as day hikes or day rides.
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Enjoy some downtime in a beautiful resort! The Marlborough Sounds is home to a lovely selection of resorts and lodges which are all packed with activities. What’s great is that they are all pretty affordable! Many of the accommodations in the Marlborough Sounds have their own kayaks, paddle boards, snorkelling gear, beaches, bush walks and more.
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Bird watching at the Kaipupu Sanctuary. New Zealand is home to some fascinating native birds. The Kaipupu Sanctuary is situated at the head of Picton harbour in the Queen Charlotte Sound. It is a 'mainland island sanctuary' which means it is separated from the mainland by a predator proof fence. The only way public can access this is by water! Simply catch a water taxi from the Picton foreshore and you will be transported to the Dolphin Bay jetty - which will feel a million miles away from the town, but only takes a quick 10 mins.
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Check out Ship Cove in the heart of the Queen Charlotte Track. Ship Cove is a heritage icon of New Zealand which is located near the entrance of the Queen Charlotte Sound. This is where the first Maori to discover New Zealand, Kupe stopped on a voyage through the Marlborough Sounds as well as being an anchorage point for Captain James Cook, whom was the first European to land in New Zealand. You’ll find beautiful sculptures, memorials and plenty of interpretation panels which help tell the story of the early days which is all set amongst a stunning coastal view.
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Road trip down French Pass! This a must do, make sure to extend your trip and take a beautiful drive down French Pass Road. This stunning drive will reveal endless coastal views all the way out to D’Urville Island. You’ll be able to stop along the way at the beach and experience some ferocious whirlpools. If you’re the camping type, bring your tent and sleeping bag and once you reach French Pass, set up camp and get the full experience.
- Winery Tour: The Marlborough region is famous for their many incredible wines. So while you’re here, it’s a must do, to go and do a winery tour and tasting. A few suggestions, just in case you’re unsure which ones to check out, you can’t go past Saint Clair, Spy Valley, Wairau River, Yealands Estate & Nautilus Estate, just to name a few.
Explore New Zealand with Rite Price Rentals! Rent a car from Rotorua, Hamilton or Tauranga and explore everything that New Zealand has to offer. We have car or van hire options depending on the size of your family or group. Rite Price Rentals is New Zealand’s trusted car rental company.
