Marlborough Sounds

New Zealand, Oceania

Marlborough Sounds, located at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, is a stunning region of intricate waterways, lush forests, and diverse marine life. Known for its breathtaking scenery and tranquility, it offers unique attractions like the picturesque Queen Charlotte Track for hiking, kayaking through tranquil bays, and indulging in local wines at nearby vineyards. With its beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife, the Sounds provide endless outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Woodbourne

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Marlborough Sounds

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Queen Charlotte Track

A stunning walking track with breathtaking views.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayak in the Sounds

Paddle through serene waters surrounded by nature.

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Marlborough Wine Region

Taste world-class wines in beautiful vineyards.

No booking required
4

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go dolphin watching

Experience playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cruise the Sounds

Take a scenic boat cruise through stunning fjords.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the EcoWorld Aquarium

Learn about local marine life and conservation.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to Cape Palliser Lighthouse

Enjoy panoramic views from this iconic lighthouse.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)