Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.
Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand is a sought-after destination for kayaking. Its intricate waterways, spanning 1,500 kilometres of coastline, offer diverse routes surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The region boasts turquoise waters, lush green forests, and a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins. Kayakers can explore sheltered bays, secluded coves, and open stretches of water, enjoying the tranquillity and serenity of the remote surroundings. With easy accessibility and kayak rental options, Marlborough Sounds attracts both experienced paddlers and beginners looking for an unforgettable adventure in a breathtaking setting.
Kayakers can access several major waterways within the Marlborough Sounds, including:
These waterways provide many opportunities for kayakers to enjoy the stunning scenery, encounter wildlife, and experience the unique charm of the Marlborough Sounds.
In Marlborough Sounds, kayaking trips vary in duration based on the chosen option.
It is important to consider factors like weather conditions and tour arrangements, and it is recommended to consult the tour operator for precise durations.
The best time to go sea kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warmer and more stable. However, it is always recommended to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly for a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.
Yes, there are age restrictions for kayaking in Marlborough Sounds. The specific age requirements may vary depending on the tour operator or rental service. Children under a certain age are not allowed to paddle solo and must be accompanied by an adult or guide. The minimum age requirement for kayaking trips in Marlborough Sounds varies from 8-15 years, depending on the tour booked. Safety considerations and the ability to handle the equipment and water conditions are considered when determining age restrictions.
Many of our customers are first-time sea kayakers but they find kayaking easy and straightforward to do. A safety briefing will be provided before departure to cover important aspects such as weather, itinerary planning, on-water skills, and safety procedures. For those who are inexperienced, you could consider hiring a guide or joining a guided trip initially to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
You have the option to bring your own kayak or rent one in Marlborough Sounds. If you choose to bring your own, ensure it meets safety requirements and consider transportation planning. Renting a kayak is convenient and allows you to access well-maintained equipment suited for the local conditions.
There are no restrictions for non-swimmers with our trips. We hold all the buoyancy aids and safety equipment needed, so anyone can join our trips. If you are not a confident swimmer, we recommend a guided kayaking trip rather than a self-guided or a freedom rental, as you will be travelling in a party with a guide, so the chances of you capsizing and falling out of your boat are minimal. Your guide will have provided you with a briefing on what to do if you do capsize. The kayak tour operator will provide a detailed instruction and safety briefing before your trip.
During your sea kayaking trip, if the weather becomes windy, the itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate the conditions. The tour operators aim to plan the day in a way that allows you to have the wind at your back as much as possible. However, it is important to remember that outdoor activities are subject to weather changes, and there may be instances where you must paddle in windy conditions. In such cases, the guides will strive to minimize the time spent paddling against the wind. They will provide instructions and assistance to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the experience.
Double sea kayaks can hold approximately one and a half large backpacks per person, while single kayaks can accommodate around one pack per person. Fresh food for up to three days can remain fresh and edible.
For safety reasons, it may not be possible to rent a sea kayak and camp out overnight alone. It is advisable to check with the kayak rental provider regarding their specific policies and requirements. They may have guidelines in place that prioritize safety and recommend paddling in a group or with a partner.
Using DOC campsites is strongly encouraged to ensure the protection of the environment. These campsites are often located in the most scenic areas within the Marlborough Sounds. Tickets for DOC campsites may be available for purchase from the kayak rental provider.
It is recommended to discuss itinerary options with the kayak rental provider during the safety briefing. Factors such as weather conditions and the group's abilities will be assessed to suggest a suitable itinerary that meets your needs. Therefore, it is advisable not to finalize your itinerary until you have received the safety briefing.
Yes, you can bring your camera or electronic devices on the kayak, but it is important to protect them from water damage. Use waterproof cases or bags, secure attachments, and be cautious of potential splashing or waves.
Marlborough Sounds can be reached from major cities in New Zealand through various transportation options:
From Wellington: If you are in Wellington, you can take a scenic ferry ride from the Wellington Ferry Terminal to Picton, which is the gateway to Marlborough Sounds. The ferry journey takes around 3 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding waterways.
Sounds Air regularly operates flights between Wellington and Picton Airports using late-model, turbo prop Cessna Caravans, known globally for their safety, reliability, and comfort for up to 12 passengers. With their high wings offering maximum visibility and full-size airline seating, each journey becomes a scenic flight, while the use of instrument flight rules ensures capability to navigate in various weather conditions.
From Christchurch: If you are in Christchurch, you can either take a domestic flight to Blenheim, the largest town in the Marlborough region, or drive to Picton. The flight from Christchurch to Blenheim takes approximately 30 minutes. From Blenheim, you can hire a car or join a guided tour to explore Marlborough Sounds.
You could embark on the Coastal Pacific train journey from Christchurch to Picton, traversing through some of New Zealand's most breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, driving from Christchurch to Picton takes around 4 hours.
From Nelson: If you are in Nelson, you can drive to various entry points of Marlborough Sounds, such as Havelock or Anakiwa. The drive from Nelson to Havelock takes about 45 minutes, and from Nelson to Anakiwa, it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The InterCity bus service runs frequent routes from Nelson to Picton, with the journey typically taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
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