Things to Do in
Picton

With a winemaker or local legend as your guide; your tour starts with an informative vineyard stroll. You can ask all those curly questions, and capture some great vineyard photos. During your full day tour you visit 4-6 wineries which could include a local brewery (depending on the preferences of the group), with over 40 cellar doors to choose from, if you’ve got a favorite we’ll do our best to get you there. We generally focus on a new Zealand family owned vineyards and wineries but can also visit the small boutique and organic vineyards. This tour does not include a visit to Cloudy Bay, Fromm and Hans Herzog. If Cloudy Bay is a must see then please book our Gourmet Gold Tour or a Private Wine tour Lunch at a vineyard restaurant is always a highlight and is at your own cost. There is opportunity to visit the Makana Chocolate Shop. Visit 4-6 wineries.

Tour participants see the full grandeur of the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds in one experience that can only be done by air. And get to stop by a remote beach to soak up the wilderness.

This adventure combo is without a doubt, one of the best ways to experience the Marlborough Sounds. On your full day kayak and walking tour you will experience some of the iconic activities of the spectacular Queen Charlotte Sound. Spot rays and sea birds while learning about the lush native bush. You will encounter amazing beaches and spectacular views. After the guided kayak tour concludes at Ngakuta Bay, its time to don you tramping boots and hike to Picton on the iconic Link Pathway. This is an independent hike and covers a variety of native bush with breathtaking scenic views along the route. The track is a purpose built walkway connecting up local communities and is dual use for walkers and bikers. The tour concludes when you arrive back into Picton making it a round trip at approximately 4pm.

Discover the essence of Marlborough with a premier experience designed for discerning wine lovers. This exclusive tour offers a deep dive into Cloudy Bay’s prestigious wine portfolio, including their celebrated Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Guests will enjoy a series of meticulously curated wine tastings at different vineyards. They will also enjoy a gourmet lunch crafted by top Marlborough chefs. Wine tastings at 4 different vineyards exploring organic, boutique and famous Marlborough wineries each with a completely different terroirs. The tour also features immersive wine information providing insights into the Marlborough's terroir and winemaking process. With something new at every turn, the Gourmet Gold Wine Tour promises a memorable journey through the Marlborough region, showcasing the exceptional quality and diversity or the Marlborough region.

Let our winemaker tailor a Marlborough wine tour especially for you or your group’s needs… or let us surprise you with something special! You decide the start and finish time of the tour. Visit your favourite wineries without having to compromise with others in the group. You can get behind the scenes for a private tasting, or take a drive through the Awatere Valley and soak up Marlborough’s stunning scenery. We can focus on boutique, or organic wineries, breweries, combine fine wine and food… anything is possible with a private tour. This option is recommended for larger groups or families with children under the age of 12. We can visit wineries more suited to young families to keep everyone happy. If you are arriving on a cruise ship into Picton we can arrange a tour that works around your ship’s schedule. For larger groups, or to find out more about our Private Tour options please check out our website and contact us for a quote on 021 157 4094.

Join one of our experienced wine tour guides for a day out in the Marlborough region. You can choose to visit all wineries or you might want to add a gin or beer tasting to experience the full varitety of what marlborough has to offer. Spend a bit of time relaxing with lunch overlooking a vineyard and take in the ambience that is Marlborough. These tours cater for 2-6 pax ( pricing is tiered) Be chauffeur driven in style in our luxury Mercedes SUV or small Mercedes Van Let us know if you have anywhere you want to visit and we will do our best to make it happen or let us pick an interesting variety of places to visit. If you are coming off a cruise ship we will ensure that you are returned from your tour in plenty of time to reboard your ship. ( start finish time may be altered to meet your timings) We have been operating Wine Tours for more than 25 years and Shore Excursion Tours so let us show you the best of our brilliant Marlborough region.

A private winter wine and scenic tour departing Picton at 9:45am and returning at 4:00pm is the perfect option for discovering Marlborough which has the record for the longest sunshine hours in New Zealand. There are plenty of sensational wines, gourmet delights and stunning scenic landscapes all year round for you to enjoy. Indoor and outdoor itineraries are custom made to suit your day. Travel in comfort with your tour guide, a local owner with experience and knowledge to share. Relax and enjoy the sunshine with views of the snowy mountain tops in the distance. Your tour is custom-made to include any of your requests and your chauffeur/guide can recommend the very best highlights of Marlborough. Our local cuisine at our winery cafes and restaurants is a total experience where you could taste our local mussels and salmon. Lunch is at your cost, however all wine tasting fees are included.

This full-day Marlborough experience takes you across the Wairau Plains into the picturesque sea port of Havelock, where you can stop to explore and enjoy morning tea. Voyage through the stunning vistas of the Queen Charlotte Drive back into the charming town of Picton. Here you'll stop to browse and have lunch, before doing a half-day wine tour. Travel through the beautiful Marlborough wine region visiting four or five wineries. Learn about the wines and wineries from the experts and taste the array of incredible wines on offer. (Morning tea and lunch are at your own cost).

This late afternoon cruise is a perfect way to spend a few hours if you have limited time. Go for a short walk, enjoy the views from the cafe. Trip departs throughout December, January, February and March.

Experience the adventure of a lifetime as we take you on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Escape to a world of breathtaking beauty and tranquillity. Our boat tour promises an extraordinary blend of luxury, nature, and adventure that you won't want to miss. Cruise around the beautiful bays, enjoy sightseeing tours, thrilling fishing charters and discover hidden treasures beneath the surface while snorkeling. Explore private beaches, bask in the company of abundant wildlife and explore everything the area has to offer. Whether it's a celebration, cherished occasion, business function, or family getaway, let the tranquil waters and breathtaking landscapes set the stage for unforgettable memories

Embark on a self-guided hike along the Queen Charlotte Track, starting with a scenic Cougar Line trip to Punga Cove. The 11km return trail leads through lush native bush and offers breathtaking views of the Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sounds. The final ascent to Eatwells Lookout presents a moderately challenging climb, culminating in 360-degree panoramic vistas. This adventure is perfect for those with a good fitness level, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a rewarding experience in New Zealand's stunning landscapes. - 11 km return hike featuring lush bush and stunning coastal views - Approximately 4-5 hours of walking, plus 1.5 hours by water taxi each way - Moderate to challenging trail suitable for fit hikers - Track Pass required for access, available for purchase at reception

Take a water taxi from Picton to Kaipupu Sanctuary, a peaceful predator-free island. Enjoy a 2.8km loop track through native bush, perfect for a leisurely walk and spotting native birds in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a relaxing day out around some of the beautiful wineries in Marlborough. Learn about the regions great wines and sample at least 4 wines at each cellar door. We usually visit 5 tasting rooms so you will get plenty of wine and different experiences. Our tour is door to door so you don't have to worry about driving, just relax and enjoy your tour. Outside of peak times we don't have preset cellar doors so if you have somewhere you would like to go please message us before the tour and we will do our best to schedule your visit. There are around 20 cellar doors to choose from on a daily basis so plenty of variety. Please choose the correct tour location and time. We have central Picton 9.30am and central Blenheim 10am. If you are outside of central areas please check with us before booking Do NOT book this if you are on a cruise ship as it is unlikely to meet your ships times, please choose our shore excursion tours.

Join the team from 'the original Marlborough Wine Tours and Discover New Zealand's premier wine region on this half-day tour with pick up options from Picton and Blenheim ( subject to availability on the day). Visit four different wineries in the Marlborough wine region and be guided by our experienced wine tour guides. Stroll through the vineyards, and sample wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. This small-group tour is limited to 11 people and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. With approximately 20 tasting rooms to visit on a daily basis there is plenty of choice. If you have somewhere you really want to go let us know at booking time. There is no lunch stop - small eats or cheese platter can be purchased on the tour. NOTE: please do not book this tour if you are on a cruise ship as we won't guarrantee return to ship in time. Please pick the right pick up location, time and price, central Picton or central Blenheim, if outside those locations please check with us first.

Experience the beauty and seclusion of the Marlborough Sounds on this 4 hour half day guided sea kayak tour. Your tour takes in the western end of the Queen Charlotte Sound with its sheltered coves, beautiful beaches, azure blue waters and lush native bush. Learn about the history of the area from your knowledgeable, relaxed and friendly guides.  On any given day, you have a good chance of seeing sting rays and eagle rays, a huge variety of sea birds including cormorants and sometimes little blue penguins, seals, huge starfish and if we are really lucky, even dolphins. We have small groups with 1 Guide per 8 people kayaking.

Enjoy an afternoon among the vines on this half-day wine tour from Picton. You will be collected and taken on a tour through the Marlborough wine region visiting approximately three to four wineries. A lunch stop is not included in this tour so it is advised that you have something to eat prior to joining the tour so you can enjoy tasting a range of stunning Marlborough wines. Flexibility is the key, and we will always do our best to include any requests you may have or let the experts select some fabulous wineries for you to visit for the afternoon.

Sea kayak from the picturesque Picton foreshore, across the harbour and into the Grove Arm of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Stop on a sandy beach in this beautiful remote location for morning tea and lunch. Your guide will enjoy sharing their knowledge of the Marlborough Sounds and it's native flora and fauna as you paddle along.

This tour is for Cruise Ship passengers arriving in Picton, New Zealand Explore New Zealand's premier wine region on this 5-6 hr tour from Picton. Visit four different wineries in the Marlborough wine region and visit the boutique Chocolate Factory, stroll through the vineyards, and sample wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. This small-group tour is limited to 11 people and it is tailored to the needs of people coming off the Cruise Ships who may have different timing requirements to our standard daily tours. please Note : There is no Cruise Terminal in Picton so all passengers must disembark the ship onto shuttle buses to the Picton I Site where we meet all tour particpants

Discover the full diversity of wine varieties this stunning Marlborough region has to offer and learn the secrets behind fine wine appreciation on this full-day tour from Picton. You will visit approximately five or six wineries during the day and any special requests you may have can usually be accommodated. A winery lunch stop is included (at your own cost). A complimentary pick up from your central Picton accommodation is included and will return you thereafter or to a suitable drop off point.

Discover why Discovery Wine Tours is a favourite for cruise ship guests visiting Picton, Port Marlborough. Since 2005, our locally owned family business has specialised in relaxed small-group shore excursions designed around your ship’s schedule, allowing you to enjoy Marlborough with complete peace of mind. Unlike large coach tours, our personalised experiences focus on quality over quantity. Visit boutique wineries and iconic Cellar Doors, enjoy premium tastings, meet passionate local hosts, and discover the stories behind Marlborough’s world-famous wines. Tour timings are adjusted daily using Port Marlborough shipping updates, ensuring you return to your ship comfortably and on time. Complimentary shuttle buses operate between the cruise terminal and the Picton Information Centre meeting point, where your guide will welcome you beside the Yellow Flag. Enjoy stunning scenery, local knowledge, and genuine Kiwi hospitality on an authentic Marlborough shore excursion.

Travel in a comfortable van, watch the beautiful countryside go by as we drive from location to location. Sample 4 different local wines at either 3 or 4 different cellar doors. Everything is all arranged and booked for you. Do you have a sweet tooth? We can also call into the Chocolate Factory as a free extra if you like. ARRIVING ON A CRUISE SHIP, PLEASE NOTE: -Shuttle buses will bring you from the cruise ship to the Picton Information Centre, and this is where I will be waiting for you. Start times/meeting time may change, so please do keep in contact. This is due to evey cruise ships arrival time is different.

Travel in a comfortable van, relax and watch the countryside out the window as we go from location to location. Guide lives locally and will tell you all about the region. Family friendly tour. Can take groups of up to 9 people. Tours can be altered to suit you.

We are the only Marlborough Sounds Guided Walk company with our own boats. Your day starts with the Ultimate Wildlife Cruise through the calm sheltered waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. You get on board binoculars for viewing wildlife and species ID cards with a WCA Qualified Guide. Dolphins 95% of the time :-) Spend 1 hour on Motuara Island with its stunning views and range of Endangered Species where you can get close-up encounters with Rare Birds. The lookout has an amazing panoramic view. We pay DOC your access fee. E-ko started Guided Walks on this island 25 years ago. After you visit Motuara - Sanctuary Island, then head to the famous Ship Cove. There you can Walk the BEST of Queen Charlotte Track in a Loop. Trees up to 1500 years old only with us, Hidden in the bush. Self Guided with a Map showing you where the hidden gems are :-) Re-live History and embrace nature. Walk the BEST 5km, relax at Ship Cove with a complimentary glass of Pinot Gris, and enjoy the return cruise.

Departing from the Picton I-Site, this guided Jade Wine Tour transfers you by air-conditioned minibus to the Wairau Valley for a personalised tasting experience. Visit a selection of large and family-run wineries to sample Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals, learn about barrel maturation in the cellars, and enjoy scenic photo stops. Each tour is planned around the specific arrival and departure times of your cruise ship, allowing for a flexible itinerary that makes the most of your time ashore while ensuring a comfortable return to port. The tour includes a stop for lunch at a vineyard restaurant (own cost) and, time permitting, a visit to a chocolate factory and a lookout with views of your ship.

This Wildlife and Dolphin tour offers an amazing, fully-guided experience to complete your visit to Marlborough! You will have the opportunity to see rare seas birds, marine mammals, and endangered land birds. Led by enthusiastic Marine Biologists, WCA certified Guides .Drop off at Blumine Island the only place in New Zeland to see the rarest New Zeland Busbird - Orange Fronted Kakariki ( 98% succes rate ) King Shag ( 99 %Sucess rate ) Search for Dolphins in calm sheltered waters before traveling to BlumineIsland DOC Predator Free Bird Sanctuary Island. Bio-securtiy applies - No BAGS ON ISLAND unless DOC checked

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds, at the top of New Zealand's South Island, with this indulgent Greenshell Mussel Cruise. On the cruise you'll sample local seafood such as salmon, and Greenshell mussels. Relax and unwind while you cruise the tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound aboard our luxury vessel on this half-day tour, departing Picton. Learn about local history, pass by a mussel farm and take in the stunning scenery. This tour requires a minimum of 6 guests to proceed. In the event the minimum is not reached, travelers will be offered an alternative cruise date.

The half day guided sea kayak trip is an ideal opportunity to fit a little kayaking adventure into a busy day – or for those just wanting a taste of sea kayaking. Our priority is to get you out on the water, allowing maximum time to enjoy the tranquil waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Your guide will enjoy sharing their knowledge of the Marlborough Sounds and it's native flora and fauna as you paddle along. The area is surrounded by bush-clad shorelines and sandy beaches. We’ll stop for a light refreshment break along the way before returning to Picton.

Experience the beauty and seclusion of the Marlborough Sounds on a full day small group guided sea kayak tour. Your tour takes in the western end of the Queen Charlotte Sound with its sheltered coves, beautiful beaches, azure blue waters and lush native bush. You will stop at a secluded beach for a delicious lunch. Learn about the history of the area from your knowledgeable, relaxed and friendly guides. Your guide will be with you for the day to answer questions, share pearls of wisdom and ensure your comfort and wellbeing. Depending on the weather, we will vary our route each day to take advantage of sea breezes at our back - we don't follow an enforced plan which enables us to cater for all abilities on the day.

The only Marlborough wine tour organized by a local winemaker we will tailor make this wine tour to perfection. Make the most of your short time in Marlborough. Visit 3-4 of the best wineries in the region. Enjoy an informative vineyard stroll, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at a New Zealand winery and capture the best behind-the-scenes winery photos. This tour is tailored to the needs of Cruise Ship passengers who may have different timing requirements to our standard daily tours. The tour usually departs at around 9.30am but flexible to suit your ships arrival time. You can relax knowing that we will return you safely and on time for your ship. This tour is for a maximum of 2 people. But the van holds 11 so For larger groups please contact us for a quote. Lunch is at own cost at the vineyard restaurant.

Relax with the flexibility of your exclusive tour of the Marlborough wine region.  Taste sensational wines and partake of some of the most delicious gourmet treats.  Enjoy the wineries or mix and match the day with exciting options. From the Port of Picton your local chauffeur/guide will meet you at the Picton Visitors Centre near the vehicle to take you on a scenic journey through to Blenheim and the famous wine region. Savour our local cuisine in a winery garden café or enjoy a wine with a cheese, meat, seafood platter overlooking our stunning Wairau Valley. Later, visit a chocolate boutique. Ride with peace of mind with flexible drop off to suit your ships scheduled departure. This tour has been created due to the demand for larger but small personal groups of a maximum of 11. A comfortable 11 seat Mini Tour Van is provided for your pleasure.