Deep in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, South Island, New Zealand, is the spectacular Queen Charlotte Track. Stretching from the legendary Ship Cove to Anakiwa, home of the Outward Bound school, the track passes through lush coastal forest, around historic bays and along skyline ridges, affording travellers unsurpassed views of both Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. The 71-kilometre track is easy walking track standard and is suitable for both walkers and mountain bike riders, taking three to five days to complete walking, or two to three days for mountain bikers. Much of the track’s charm is its relative ease of access, which allows visitors to walk or bike the track in sections. It is also possible for visitors to arrange for a boat operator to transport their packs between accommodation places. Historic Ship Cove is the favoured point for beginning the track.
There are many places to stay along the way, either in private accommodation or in Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites. Road and boat transport services are available from Picton. Queen Charlotte Track is classified as a walking track, being wide and benched. All the major streams are bridged; however stout walking boots and a good level of fitness are required.
Mountain biking is allowed on the track all year round except for the section from Ship Cove to Kenepuru Saddle, which is closed in the busy summer season, between 1 December and 28 February (please read the mountain biking section for more information).
Track category
Plan and prepare for a walking track.
Walking track
Time:
3-5 days one way
Distance:
71 km