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Staff Pick
"The perfect blend of nature and relaxation. Great food, great accommodation, and amazing views along the trail. "
– Paddy Scott
Overview
The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's finest coastal walks, weaving through native forest and cresting ridgelines with sweeping views over the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. What sets this walk apart is the lodge-to-lodge experience. Each night's accommodation is surrounded by nature, so the feeling of being immersed in the Sounds never really stops.
The Marlborough region has a well-earned gourmet reputation, and the quality of the food and wine along the track matches the scenery. Bags are transferred by boat each day, leaving walkers free to carry only a daypack.
This five-day itinerary covers fewer kilometres than our six-day option, making it the ideal choice for those who prefer a more relaxed pace on the track
Highlights
- Explore where Captain Cook landed, and the Cook memorial
- Experience the magic of walking through thick native forest and lush coastal vegetation
- Wander by the ponga ferns in deep gullies
- Enjoy the sound of the forest and surrounds of the spectacular Furneaux Lodge
- Eatwell lookout, with 360 degree views over Endeavour Inlet and the Bay of Many Covers
- Stay in very comfortable water-side accommodation where you never leave the track
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Itinerary
Day 1
The trip starts in Picton in the Marlborough area, we also pick up in Blenheim. Relax in comfort at your accommodation at the marina or take a walk around the foreshore. If you are contemplating walking Abel Tasman then we provide all transfers from the Abel Tasman Track or to and from Nelson (or nearby).
Hotel in Picton
What's Included
Accommodation
3 Hotel, 1 Lodge
Meals
4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
Transfers
- Ferry transfer
- Water Taxi
Guidance & Support
- Printed itinerary & walk notes
- Stroll walking app
- 24/7 on-trip support
How We Rate This Walk
Stroll Walking Level
Moderate to Challenging
Rated by our team — we walk every route before we recommend it.
Regular hills and varied terrain. These walks involve more challenging sections. Regular walking beforehand is recommended.
View Fitness Guide3
Days on the trail
12-25 km
Average per walking day
579-1146 m
Gain per day
6/10
Trail difficulty
Where You'll Stay
The accommodation on the Queen Charlotte Track is a highlight in its own right. Each lodge sits directly on the Sounds, with the water at your doorstep from the moment you arrive. Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove are among New Zealand's finest track-side properties, each combining quality rooms, excellent dining and genuine hospitality in one of the country's most beautiful settings. Your first and final night is spent at Edit Picton, right on the Picton waterfront.
What You'll Eat
A two-course à la carte dinner, cooked breakfast and packed walkers lunch are included on each day of the walk. On your first and last night in Picton, dinner is yours to explore — the town has plenty of excellent restaurants and is a great introduction to the region's celebrated food and wine scene.
More About This Trip
Departure Dates
Choose Your Start Date
Pick any available date — this is your trip, your schedule
October 2026
November 2026
Season & Pricing Guide
Prices shown are per person, twin/double share basis.
Queen Charlotte Track reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Know More?
Call UsThe Queen Charlotte Experience
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