Last updated November 2026
The Ferndale tracks are two short walks from the Ferndale standard campsite in Kenepuru Sound, about 36 km from Blenheim. You can only get there by boat.
From the campsite there is a 15-minute loop track or a longer 1-hour return track, and DOC grades them as easy to intermediate walking tracks. They suit campers and boaties wanting a short walk ashore. When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alerts for the tracks, but check DOC before you go.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Ferndale tracks on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Ferndale standard campsite, Kenepuru Sound (boat access only)
- Distance from the city
- About 36 km from Blenheim
- Walking time
- 15 min loop or 1 hr return
- Grade
- Easy (DOC: easy to intermediate walking track)
- Dogs
- Dogs with a DOC permit only (contact the closest DOC office)
- Track type
- Walking tracks
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Ferndale Tracks
Ferndale is a DOC standard campsite in Kenepuru Sound, part of DOC’s Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds area. DOC says the walk can only be reached by boat, so the tracks are something to plan around a day on the water or a stay at the campsite.
There are two options. The 15-minute loop is the quick choice for a leg stretch after landing. The 1-hour return track gives you a little more time on your feet.
Both are graded easy to intermediate by DOC, so they suit most walkers.
Getting There
DOC says you can only get to this walk by boat. Water taxis run from Picton, and you can also hire yachts, launches, motor boats and sea kayaks. The tracks start at the Ferndale campsite in Kenepuru Sound.
Before You Go
The weather in the Sounds is generally mild, but conditions can change quickly, especially on the water. Check the marine forecast and make sure you have the right gear and experience for your boat trip.
Light fires only in designated areas, boil, filter or treat water before drinking it, and in late summer and autumn carry antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Ferndale tracks: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds area: other walks, campsites and alerts around Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the Ferndale tracks?
DOC gives 15 minutes for the loop track and 1 hour return for the longer track.
How do I get there?
Only by boat. Water taxis run from Picton, or you can hire a yacht, launch, motor boat or sea kayak.
Where do the tracks start?
At the Ferndale standard campsite in Kenepuru Sound.
How hard are they?
DOC grades them as easy to intermediate walking tracks.
Can I bring my dog?
Only with a DOC permit. Contact the closest DOC office to get one.
Are the tracks open?
They were open when we checked on 18 October 2026, with no DOC alerts, but check the DOC page before you go.
How far is it from Blenheim?
About 36 km in a straight line, in Kenepuru Sound.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.