Itineraries

Nelson and Nelson Lakes

Distance 113kms to Nelson
Duration 2hours to Nelson
Nelson has a vast array of activities, you can start your trip with a stop at the Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve, take a dip in the cool refreshing water before you continue on your way to Nelson. Wake up early on Saturday and visit the Nelson Markets, this market is well known for its array of food and arts & crafts to be found in the many stalls. Take in a packed lunch to Tahunanui Beach and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shores. Abel Tasman National park is only an hour from Nelson where you can take a bush walk or enjoy the golden sand and blue waters of Golden Bay. On your travels back to Picton stop in at St Arnaud and take in the beauty of the Nelson Lakes and Richmond ranges.

Photo:Graham Charles, newzealand.com

Golden Bay

Distance 236kms
Duration 3hours
Golden Bay is at the top of the South Island and is the epitome of golden sand and clear blue water. 
There is an array of activities and places to visit. Abel Tasman National park allows for you to get in amongst the scenery whether you spend the day bush walking or pitch a tent in one of the designated areas and experience the night life.
Take a kayak and experience the many bays at Kaiteriteri or experience the luxury on a Catamaran cruising around watching the dolphins and seals play along the coastline.
Head through to Collingwood, and visit Te Waikoropupu Springs, a natural spring which is constantly flowing and showcases New Zealands natural fresh water ecology, after experiencing one of New Zealand's wonders head on to Farewell Spit the Northern most point of the South Island.
4days is only just long enough to experience this area so allow 5 days to really enjoy the Golden Bay splendor.

Photo Pupu Springs Dancing Sands: nelsonnz.com website Tourism Nelson

Hanmer Springs

Distance 282kms one way
Time 3hours 49mins

Lounge out in the Hotpools for the weekend, only a 4 hour drive from Picton through some of New Zealands most scenic coastline.
Stop of at Kaikoura for a whale watching trip or swim with the dolphins. From Kaikoura its only another 2 hours until you are in Hanmer Springs.
Nestled away in the Alps this natural hotspring is great in Winter and Summer. www.hanmersprings.co.nz

Nelson

Distance 113kms
Duration 2hours
Nelson is Marlboroughs closest neighbour and like all good friends we like to compete....compete for SUN! Marlborough and Nelson compete each year for the top Sunshine hours. This means that whether you are in Marlborough or Nelson the sun is sure to shine. This city allows you to enjoy the hustle and bussle of a busy morning market followed by an afternoon stroll on Tahunanui Beach or you might like to visit the WOW and Car museum.

Photo: Tahunanui Beach, neson tourisim, tourismnelson.com

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

Distance 77kms
Duration 55mins
Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve is the mid way point between Picton and Nelson. This area offers you scenic bushwalks and the chance to cool off in one of the South Island mountain fed rivers. If you are interested in a little fly fishing the river is also known for its Rainbow and Brown Trout.

Queen Charlotte Drive

Distance 36kms to Havelock
Duration 46mins
Queen Charlotte Drive weaves between the many bays and inlets of the Queen Charlotte Sound and meanders through to Havelock which is located at the end of the Pelorus Sound. You may also be interested in hopping over to Portage which is located 40mins from the Kenepuru Sound turnoff half way between Picton and Havelock.

Marlborough Sounds,Kieran Scott, New Zealand.com

Havelock

Distance 36kms via Queen Charlotte Drive
Distance 42kms via Rapaura
Duration 46mins to 1hour
Havelock is situated in the Pelorus Sound and is a small seaside fishing town. Visit the marina and watch as they unload the catch of the day and stop off at The Mussel Pot for the meal of fresh greenlip mussels. You may be interested in boarding charter boat and going out into the Pelorus sound where you can catch Snapper and Kingfish.
You can also visit the many art galleries and craft stores along the Queen Charlotte drive and in Havelock.
 
Havelock Town: www.havelock.co.nz

Kaikoura

Distance:157kms
Duration 2hours
Kaikoura is a ocean goers dream. The unique topography of the sea floor allows for Whales to be seen in shallow waters as they dine on Krill and other phytoplankton. There are many cracks and crevices that allow for  the Crayfish to thrive and it is not unusual to see a pod of Dolphins as you drive through. There is also a colony of seals that are always entertaining to watch. When you get to Kaikoura jump into a plane or on a boat and take in the sights that the Whales and other sea life create. On your way back to Blenheim stop off and pick up a Crayfish from the many small Cray business along the road and sit on the beach as you watch the sun set behind the mountains. Kaikoura is never a boring sight always offering something unique to see.

Photo Source: Fur Seal Kaikoura, Jason Hosking. newzealand.com