4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self-guided walk
Accommodation
  • 1 night motel, 4 nights lodge
Meals
  • 4 Dinners
  • 4 Lunches
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

6 daysfrom

$2800NZD

Trip Code: GTU

Trip highlights


  • Hike the Queen Charlotte Track over five days at your own pace
  • Scenic boat trip along Queen Charlotte Sound
  • Enjoy a comfortable bed, hot shower and delicious meal in picturesque locations after a day on the trail
  • Varied walking along shorelines and up onto ridge tops, through native forest and with panoramic views
  • Visit Meretoto/Ship Cove, significant as a landing place and safe haven for explorers in both Maori and European history
  • Rest day after the longest day on the trail

Whether you subscribe to the Maori legends or geological processes that formed the Marlborough Sounds, its network of sunken river valleys, islands and maze of peaks, intricate bays, coves and beaches is truly unique in New Zealand. There is no better way to learn some of its history while taking in the superb natural beauty of the region than by exploring the Queen Charlotte Track on foot. Walk 66km of this meandering multi-use trail (almost it's entire 70km length), taking as much time as you choose each day then staying each night in cosy lodges with all the comforts you need. An extra day is also included to allow some rest and relaxation along the way. The views are superb, the vegetation is diverse and the walking varies from low level coastline to moderate ridgelines no higher than 500m above sea level. Access to the track relies on the cooperation of local landowners as the track crosses a combination of private land and public nature reserves. It is a privilege to visit this land. Water taxi transfers to and from the trailheads add a different perspective to the experience and allow opportunity to spot marine wildlife such as seals, dolphins, penguins and albatross.


Itinerary

Make your own way to Picton, the gateway to Marlborough Sounds, and check-in to your tour accommodation any time after 2:00pm. Take some time to stroll along the waterfront of this picturesque seaside town with its sheltered harbour and bustling marina, or take one of several short walks through native bushland for fabulous views over Queen Charlotte Sound. There are many great cafes, restaurants and galleries plus an aqaurium and floating maritime museum.

Meals:  Nil

You will be collected early this morning between 7.00am and 8.00am from your tour accommodation and transferred to the Picton waterfront for a trip briefing before departing on your scenic water taxi journey to Ship Cove (approx 1 - 1.5hrs). (During very busy periods, trip briefings will take place the previous evening; exact timing will be advised with your final documents.) Considered one of the most important meeting places between New Zealand Maori and Europeans, the site is a historical reserve. It was a significant place of habitation for local Maori as well as the place where Captain Cook first stepped ashore, and subsequently anchored many times during the 1770's, while exploring the New Zealand coastline. The Queen Charlotte Track commences from here with a gradual steady climb through native bush, including spectacular podocarp and beech forest. With two main ascents and descents today affording wonderful views, plus sections of untouched native forest including a gigantic 1000 year old rimu tree, this day is considered the finest section of the whole track. Concluding at historic Furneaux Lodge, where you spend the night, this truly is a fantastic day.

Meals:  L,D

Enjoy a leisurely start this morning as today’s walk is shorter and easier than yesterday. From Furneaux Lodge the track follows the coastline all day, with lovely views of the inlet as you trace its shore. Passing through nature reserve, regenerating native forest and farmland there is also some history along the way. Information panels at the head of Endeavour Inlet describe local antimony mining operations that burgeoned in the 1880's. It is hard to imagine a village of 800 people at that location now. Passing the small beach at Camp Bay, arrive at Punga Cove Resort where you spend the night. Relax with a delicious dinner and a glass of wine at the end of another wonderful day.

Meals:  B,L,D

Start early today to make the most of every moment as it is the longest day on the whole track. It is also the most challenging but has spectacular views which makes the effort worthwhile. Starting near sea level and eventually reaching the highest point on the trail (475m above sea level) there are some steep sections, including the short detour to Eatwell's Lookout, named after a local landowner. The rewards are 360 degree views from the lookout, plus far-reaching panoramas of the Marlborough Sounds at every turn. Following the ridgeline for much of the day, be sure to stop for photos and breathe it all in. This is truly a magic section of the track. From Torea Bay Saddle, the track drops down to Torea Bay, from where you will be collected by water taxi and transferred to Lochmara Lodge.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today is a chance to relax and rest your body after the exertions of the last few days. Enjoy reading a book or you may like to wander around the gardens, amble down to the beach or sip a coffee while taking in the view. Enjoy a massage, soak in the twin baths in the bath house or explore the art trails. You can do as much or as little as you like. If you feel more energetic perhaps take one of the kayaks or paddle boards out. If you are super keen and really want to tick off every kilometre on the Queen Charlotte Track you can also walk towards Torea Saddle and back (4km each way plus the hill up to the track from Lochmara Lodge). Lunch is not included today. Overnight again at Lochmara Lodge.

Meals:  B,D

After a restful day yesterday, find your walking legs again today for the last section of the Queen Charlotte Track. Ascend from the Lochmara Lodge to the main track on the ridgeline this morning with stunning views towards Picton as well as the waters of Kenepuru Sound. Pass through manuka scrub, open farmland and a final stretch of beautiful beech forest. A picturesque beach in the sheltered Davies Bay provides an opportune place for a last rest before arriving at Anakiwa, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track. Reflect on the last four amazing days while you wait for your water taxi to whisk you back to Picton, arriving in the late afternoon. Trip arrangements end on arrival at the Picton waterfront.

Meals:  B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.



Inclusions

  • 1 night motel accommodation in Picton (twin share) with private bathroom
  • 4 nights comfortable lodge along the Queen Charlotte Track (twin share) with private bathroom
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
  • Drinking water
  • Daily luggage transfer - 1 bag/small suitcase per person, must NOT exceed 15kg in weight
  • Information booklet and route map (one per booking)
  • Scenic water taxi transfers between Picton and Queen Charlotte Track trailheads (Ships Cove, Anakiwa) and water taxi transfer from Torea Bay to Lochmara Lodge on Day 4
  • Transfer from hotel in Picton to marina on first day of walk
  • Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative (QCTLC) Track Pass
  • Excess luggage storage if required

  • Travel to/from Picton before/after the trip
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Drinks other than water - good drinking water is available at each night's accommodation and at marked locations along the trail
  • Optional activities, extras and upgrades (such as additional water taxi transfers, local guide for first day of walk; guided sea kayaking on rest day)
  • Items of a personal nature (eg. laundry, shopping, internet)
  • Daypack and/or Trekking Poles (there are limited numbers available to hire; additional cost applies). Please request in advance.
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (if required)

Trail Surface


Accommodation


Grading

Introductory to Moderate  
4

INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE - GRADE 4 These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity with several moderate stages. These adventures involve walking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and must be in good health. Walks may (but don't always) involve carrying a full pack around 15kg. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Walking each day is over hilly and occasionally steep terrain. Care needs to be taken as there are some steep sections that have a clay surface and are slippery when wet. You will need to carry your daily requirements such as water, lunch, spare clothing and personal items. Your fitness preparation should include climbing and descending stairs, hills or sand dunes on uneven terrain. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise - swimming, cycling, jogging, stair or hill walking - three to four times a week for three months prior to your journey.


Departure dates

Daily departures between 1 Oct and 31 May

Notes

H
High Season
1
This package is based on Mahana Lodge for the third night. Punga Cove will be used if Mahana Lodge is not available. No child rates available.
Note:
Solo travellers cannot be paired together, a compulsory single supplement applies.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Great Walks of New Zealand.

Priceper person from

$2800NZD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single supplement 2023/24NZD$1050
  • Single supplement 2024/25NZD$1990
*Prices listed are per person and also from

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Queen Charlotte Extended Walk in Comfort trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Trip reviews


Why walk with us

Self-Guided Experts

Our itineraries have been carefully designed and researched with you in mind.  The logistics are handled for you allowing you the freedom to walk New Zealand at a level of your choosing and in your own stride.

Kaitiakitanga

A core Maori value exercising guardianship in relation to nature, flora and fauna and its people, ensuring that sustainability and environment are valued, respected and protected for future generations to enjoy.

Supporting Local

As a small business ourselves, we love supporting and sharing New Zealand with other small and likeminded businesses and communities to showcase for you, what our land and people have to offer.

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