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Paua Pearl Farm Tour

South Island

Beachcomber Cruises

from
US$653
per group
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Paua shell resting on a wooden jetty at Whekenui Bay near Arapawa Blue Pearls.

Experiences

Shore Excursions Shore Excursions Cruises Cruises Half-Day Tours Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Picton
Travel Time: 4 hours

Scenic Cruise and Paua Pearl Farm Tour from Picton to Arapawa Island

Your Paua Pearl Farm Tour starts with a leisurely cruise from Picton across the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound. Along the way, your skipper shares insights into the region’s history and aquaculture before reaching Whekenui Bay. Here, you’ll be welcomed by Mike and Antonia Radon, owners of Arapawa Seafarms and pioneers in paua pearl cultivation.

During the guided tour, you’ll learn how the unique Blue Pearls are grown, from larvae to full-grown paua with pearl inserts. Depending on the season, you may see paua at different stages of development. Afterwards, browse exclusive handmade jewellery, enjoy light refreshments at the homestead, and then return to Picton on your scenic cruise.

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Aerial view of Whekenui Bay and Arapawa Blue Pearls farm on Arapawa Island.
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Hilltop view overlooking Arapawa Blue Pearls and Whekenui Bay in the Marlborough Sounds.
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Paua shell resting on a wooden jetty at Whekenui Bay near Arapawa Blue Pearls.
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Visitors observing paua shells inside the Arapawa Blue Pearls farm.
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Paua shells submerged in a tank at Arapawa Blue Pearls farm.
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Tour guide explains paua pearl farming at Arapawa Blue Pearls in the Marlborough Sounds.
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Cultured blue pearls displayed at Arapawa Blue Pearls in Whekenui Bay.
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Hands holding young pāua during a tour at Arapawa Blue Pearls in Whekenui Bay, Picton.
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Display of loose paua pearls ready to be set into jewellery.
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Paua pearl necklaces on display at Arapawa Blue Pearls in Marlborough.
  • Cruise past salmon and mussel farms.
  • Learn about the creation of the Blue Pearl and see the production process.
  • Enjoy light refreshments while taking in the views from the homestead.
  • Admire rare and exclusive pearls showcased in custom-made jewellery.
  • On demand
  • 48 hours or more before travel: Full refund**
  • Less than 48 hours: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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