Location: Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough, NZ
The Marlborough region's impressive waterways aren't only the domain of cruise ships. Visitors can also explore this gorgeous region by water with a guided kayaking tour.
With several kayaking destinations spread over the Marlborough region, this is one of the best ways to see the area from a wholly different perspective.
The Queen Charlotte Sounds and Pelorus River are two great kayaking destinations to choose from with visitors given the chance to explore by themselves or with an experienced guide.
Those who choose Pelorus River can join Pelorus Eco Adventures and will be given the chance to explore one of the most recognisable locations from the iconic film The Hobbit.
Led by a friendly and experienced guide you will be led on an aquatic journey to explore some of these famous movie locations. You will be following the same route as some of your favourite characters did in The Desolation of Smaug, stand on the same rocks as Bilbo Baggins did and pass by some wonderful waterfalls.
This is one of the best tour options for avid Lord of the Rings fans, however those who aren’t interested in the films will also enjoy this option. Pelorus River is one of the most picturesque in New Zealand and well worth the trip, especially via kayak.
While Marlborough's famously beautiful to explore from the water, many scenic offerings are also available via road; the region is home to a range of impressive drives that do a good job of showcasing some of its best features by car.
Everything is included in the price, all you’re asked to bring is your open mind and exciting (and swimmers, suitable footwear, towel, water bottle, change of warm clothes and camera).
If kayaking the Queen Charlotte Sound is on your to-do list, local operator Wilderness Guides can also help you the whole way.
The friendly team will provide you with everything you need to safely explore the area including a map, directions, safety equipment and of course, kayaks. You could spend hours paddling around the large Sounds, finding hidden bays along the way.
If you’d rather see the area with the safety of an experienced guide, you can choose a guided session.
The guides don’t follow a set plan, giving them the ability to, quite literally, go with the wind.
The tour will take you around the area and hopefully get you up close to a range of wildlife including sting rays, little blue penguins, seals, starfish and maybe even some dolphins.
Wilderness Guides offers customers kayak rentals for self-guided paddles around the sounds as well as guided half-day and full-day tours.