Last updated July 2026
The Queen Charlotte Track is a 73.5-kilometre shared-use trail through the Marlborough Sounds, running from historic Meretoto/Ship Cove to Anakiwa. It offers ridgeline views over Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepuru Sound, passing through native forest on a mix of public reserve and private land. Walkers typically take 3 to 5 days while mountain bikers complete it in 2 to 3 days. The track is accessible from Blenheim with a short drive to Picton followed by water taxi services to the northern end.
Practical Information
| Total distance | 73.5 km (Meretoto/Ship Cove to Anakiwa) |
| Walking time | 3–5 days |
| Cycling time | 2–3 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate to advanced; significant elevation and some technical sections |
| Start | Meretoto/Ship Cove (water taxi from Picton) |
| End | Anakiwa, Queen Charlotte Sound |
| Access from Blenheim | 30-minute drive to Picton; water taxi to track start points |
| Cycling access | Open year-round; early boat recommended on northern section to avoid peak walker traffic |
| Fees | Q.C.T.L.C. pass required for private land sections; DOC campsites require booking |
About the Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track follows ridgelines through dense native bush including rimu, tawa and kohekohe, with frequent sightings of tūī and bellbirds. It is managed through a partnership between the Department of Conservation, Marlborough District Council and private landowners via the Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative. The route forms part of both Te Araroa Trail and the New Zealand Cycle Trail network.
Most travellers head south from Meretoto/Ship Cove, breaking the journey at lodges and DOC campsites spaced along the way. Key overnight options include Furneaux Lodge near Camp Bay, Portage Resort and smaller facilities at Torea Bay and Cowshed Bay. The track provides long views across both Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds for much of its length.
Sections cross private land between Kenepuru Saddle and Davies Bay near Anakiwa, requiring a Q.C.T.L.C. pass. Dogs are permitted only on the short Anakiwa to Davies Bay section with a permit and must remain on a leash at all times. No open fires are allowed and all rubbish must be carried out.
Track Sections and Grades
The track divides into three main cycling sections with approximate distances and times from official sources. The northern section from Meretoto/Ship Cove to Camp Bay covers 26.5 km and takes about 5 hours for cyclists. The central section from Camp Bay to Torea Saddle is 24.5 km and takes around 4 hours. The southern section from Torea Saddle to Anakiwa spans 20 km and takes about 4 hours.
Grades range from intermediate (Grade 3) on much of the trail to advanced and expert (Grades 4–5) on steeper or more technical descents and climbs. Walkers should expect substantial daily elevation gain. The southern end from Anakiwa offers easier day-trip options without needing a water taxi.
Getting to the Track
Picton lies approximately 30 km north of Blenheim on State Highway 1, a 30-minute drive. Water taxi operators including Cougar Line and Endeavour Express provide scheduled services from Picton Marina to Meretoto/Ship Cove and other track access points. Luggage and bike transfers between accommodation stops are available through the same operators.
Road access reaches several points including Anakiwa, Torea Saddle and Kenepuru Saddle for those wishing to complete only the southern or central sections as day trips or shorter adventures.
What Visitors Often Say
The ridgeline views across two sounds at once are repeatedly described as world-class, with the southern descent into Anakiwa praised as one of the most rewarding finishes on any New Zealand trail. Many visitors appreciate the option to mix walking and cycling days or complete shorter sections as day trips from Picton.
Travellers note the well-spaced accommodation and campsites that make multi-day trips comfortable, along with reliable water taxi services that simplify logistics and allow walkers to carry only day packs.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation Queen Charlotte Track page: official details on track conditions, sections, safety and access.
Queen Charlotte Track official site: track passes, maps, accommodation listings and transport bookings.
Marlborough District Council: local road conditions and regional information for the Sounds area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete part of the Queen Charlotte Track as a day trip from Blenheim?
Yes, the southern section from Anakiwa to Torea Bay or Mistletoe Bay is reachable by road and makes a good day walk or ride.
Is a track pass required?
A Q.C.T.L.C. pass is required for the private land sections between Kenepuru Saddle and Davies Bay; it can be purchased online through the cooperative website.
What is the current status for cyclists on the northern section?
The full track is open to mountain bikes year-round; early water taxi departures are recommended on the Ship Cove to Camp Bay section during busy periods to stay ahead of walkers.
Are dogs allowed on the track?
Dogs are permitted only between Anakiwa and Davies Bay with a permit and must stay on a leash; they are not allowed elsewhere on the track.
Do I need to book campsites in advance?
Yes, all six DOC campsites along the track require advance bookings year-round through the DOC booking system.
How do I return from Anakiwa?
Water taxis operate from Anakiwa back to Picton, or road shuttles and buses can be arranged from the car park at the track end.
What fitness level is required?
Moderate to good fitness is needed due to elevation gains of several hundred metres per day on longer sections and variable trail surfaces.
Are there facilities for bike repairs?
No repair facilities exist along the track; carry tools and spare parts and be prepared to complete your own repairs.
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