About Picton

Picton Information

Picton is famous as the South Island home of the Inter-island Ferry service, but the town and surrounding region also has a wealth of wonderful experiences to offer visitors.
Picton is a great place for a holiday - for water and land lovers alike.

Ferry Link Motel is situated a 12-15 minute walk to High Street and waterfront area (approx 1km). It is a 2-3 minute walk to Crow Tavern & Restaurant, dairy, takeaways, hotels and bars (approx 200m); 600m to Bluebridge Ferry vehicle/passenger terminal; and 900m to Interislander Ferry vehicle check-in. Picton is the main town of the Marlborough Sounds and a stopover for greater Marlborough, and the Queen Charlotte Track.

On The Water

The blue-green, sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds are perfect for sailing, cruising, fishing or kayaking, or you can arrange a charter or tour with the friendly tour operators situated around the waterfront. You'll experience the magic of islands, bird sanctuaries and fish reserves, visit salmon farms and watch out for dolphins, seals and the occasional whale.

On The Land

Explore friendly Picton – the small town offers lots of sights in a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly setting. Children especially will enjoy a day spent on and around the busy harbour, watching Marlbrough Sounds Accommodationboats come and go or enjoying an ice-cream or fish and chips by the waters edge.

Learn about the Marlborough Sounds’ history at the Picton Museum and see the restoration of the old East Indiaman, "The Edwin Fox". The kids will love Seahorse World and the Foreshore gardens and play area are great for a picnic - or there are plenty of great cafes and restaurants for indoor dining.

Marlborough Sounds

Getting out on the water is a magical experience on the stunning Sounds, where the lush forest comes right down to the sparkling water. Accommodation near BlenheimTake a tour with one of the many operators operating from the Harbour or get out there under your own steam in a rental kayak or canoe.

Walk some of the famous Queen Charlotte Track or enjoy one of the many short walks in and around Picton, all with great views over the water.

Blenheim and the Marlborough wine region

Just 15-20 minutes drive from Picton is the Marlborough wine region, home to New Zealand’s world-famous Sauvignon Blanc.

Take a winery tour to sample the best the region has to offer – either self-drive (make sure you have a designated driver!) with a map from the Information Centre or with a tour company. There are over 60 wineries to choose from, many with award-winning cafes and restaurants.