Things to Do in Picton, New Zealand

Whether you’re just visiting for the day or staying a while, there is so much to do in Picton. From exploring nature and cycling along trails to checking out galleries and Picton shore excursions, you won’t be left bored in this beautiful part of the world.

Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is a stunning 71 km long track that winds through the native bush of the Marlborough Sounds. Depending on your goals, you can either do the whole thing, which can be completed in 3 to 5 days or do a simple one-day tour. Furthermore, the track gives you access to some breathtaking views as well as plenty of opportunities for bird watching.

Cycling

Wine lovers will enjoy cycling around the vineyards that are scattered along the edge of the Marlborough Sounds. The views from the many vineyards are stunning and it’s a fantastic way to explore some local wineries. Plus, you can even pick up a few bottles to take home with you. If you’re not a wine drinker, there’s no reason why you still won’t love the views and experience that comes with cycling around Picton.

Canoeing and Kayaking

If you feel like getting away from land for a while, you can jump into a kayak or canoe and explore the many coves, bays, and islands of the Marlborough Sounds. There’s some beautiful wildlife to take in while paddling around, so make sure you bring your binoculars. You might even get lucky enough to spot some rare bird species.

Galleries and Museums

Picton offers several art galleries and museums for those looking to brush up on the area’s history or admire some local artwork. At the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum, visitors can learn about Marlborough’s native culture, while the Edwin Fox Museum is all about sailing. If you’re someone who loves to learn about the history of a location, why not head to a museum?

Wine Tour

We mentioned it earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again. The Marlborough wine region is renowned for its world-class wines and a wine tour is a great way to learn more about the area’s wineries and pick up some tasty bottles for yourself. There are several companies offering tours of varying lengths and prices, so you can find one that suits your budget.

Bird-Watching

Do you love nature? If so, you won’t want to miss out on all the bird-watching opportunities that are available in Picton. From seabirds to native species, there’s something for everyone. Plus, since the area is known for its conservation efforts, you can rest assured that your visit will be helping the environment too.

Kaipupu Sanctuary

Finally, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly experience, visit the Kaipupu Sanctuary. This wildlife sanctuary is home to over 200 species of native birds and plants. You can even take part in a guided tour to learn about this unique environment and get up close with some of the incredible creatures that inhabit the area.

No matter what you’re looking for, Picton is sure to have something that will keep you entertained. Whether it’s exploring the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds or enjoying some local history and art, there are plenty of things to do in this beautiful part of New Zealand. So, why not visit and explore?