Why Marlborough Sounds Is a New Zealand Paradise

Last Updated on November 10, 2019

The Marlborough Sounds is one of the most picturesque places I have been to and I am proud to have the Marlborough Sounds in my home country, New Zealand.  Plan to visit when the sun is expected to be out and shining and I guarantee you will get some fantastic and stunning shots.  The South Island is one of the most beautiful places on Earth and I would be happy as a visitor to make Marlborough Sounds as my first taste of what is to come. 

Marlborough Sounds is located at the top of the South island in New Zealand.  Opt to visit this stunner in the summer time which runs from December to February but, to be honest, this year (2015) the weather has been great here until the start of May.  If you are coming from the North island then you will need to cross the Cook Strait on one of the boat services.  There are two companies that you can cross with.  There is either The Interislander or Bluebridge.  For the summertime, it is best to book in advance to grab a good deal.  The crossing between islands is approximately 3 -3 1/2 hours long.  It is a beautiful scenic crossing so don’t forget to check the views on the top deck.

When we got to Picton it was a small walk to the town centre where we indulged in some food from a local cafe.  We then caught the Mail Run boat.  This is a must-do.Depending what day you go (Tuesday, Thursday or a Friday) will depend on which route the boat takes.  From memory, I think ours took about 4 hours and it was worth every minute of it.  It takes you around the Marlborough Sounds and delivers the locals their mail and essential items such as food.  Most of the locals have animals such as cats and dogs that meet you at the edge of the jetties and wait for the treat the boat captain gives them.  A few giggles are let out as the animals wait intensely for their treat.  Dolphins followed the boat and we saw the local salmon farm, also seals basking in the sun waiting for one of the Salmon to accidentally be let out!  The photos are not photo-shopped or filtered.  They are the pure beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. One New Zealand’s little gold mines. 

If you are into the outdoors in a major way then check out the Queen Charlotte track where you can walk, cycle or Kayak to deserted campgrounds and admire the beautiful views that come with it.  The track is 70km long and it gives you a mixture of mountain views, lagoons and crystal clear waters.

So, if you are looking to head to Marlborough Sounds then check out Agoda for all your accommodation needs, they have amazing deals!

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