Last updated November 2026
The Motuara Island Lookout Track climbs from the jetty to the summit viewing platform on Motuara Island, a scenic reserve in Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui in the outer Marlborough Sounds. DOC grades it Easy to intermediate and allows 40 minutes return for the 1.6 km return walk, which sidles around the hill on a moderate gradient.
The island lies opposite Ship Cove, about 32 km from Picton, and is reached only by boat: your own, a scenic cruise or a sea kayak. Along the way there is a bird viewing station, several lookouts and Cook’s Cairn near the summit.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Motuara Island Lookout Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Motuara Island jetty
- Getting there
- By boat from Picton (about 32 km): private boat, scenic cruise or sea kayak
- Distance from the city
- About 53 km from Blenheim in a straight line
- Walking time
- 40 minutes return
- Track length
- 1.6 km return via the same track
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No dogs
- 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 Motuara Island Lookout Track
From the jetty, the Motuara Lookout Track sidles around the hill on a moderate gradient to a viewing platform on the 128 m summit. DOC suggests spending time at the bird viewing station, about 5 minutes from the jetty, and at Cook’s Cairn near the top.
The views over Queen Charlotte Sound are the reward, with several lookout points on the way up.
You may spot some of the island’s wildlife. DOC says you might see the cheeky South Island robin, the endangered saddleback (tīeke) or the yellow-crowned parakeet (kākāriki).
Getting to Motuara Island
Motuara Island lies in Queen Charlotte Sound, opposite Ship Cove and about 32 km from Picton. DOC says you can reach the island by your own boat, a scenic cruise or sea kayak, and there is a jetty.
Before You Go
DOC notes the weather in the Sounds is generally mild but can change quickly, especially on the water. Make sure you have the right equipment and experience, and check the marine forecast if you are heading out by boat or kayak.
Light fires only in designated areas, and boil, filter or treat any water before drinking. In late summer and autumn, carry antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings. Check DOC before you go.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Motuara Island Lookout Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Marlborough District Council: local information for Picton and the Marlborough Sounds, including harbour notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Motuara Island Lookout Track?
About 1.6 km return via the same track. DOC allows 40 minutes return.
How do I get to Motuara Island?
By boat. DOC says you can use your own boat, a scenic cruise or a sea kayak. The island is about 32 km from Picton.
How hard is the walk?
DOC grades it Easy to intermediate, with a moderate gradient sidling around the hill.
What birds might I see?
DOC mentions South Island robins, endangered saddleback (tīeke) and yellow-crowned parakeets (kākāriki).
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC lists the track as no dogs.
What is at the top?
A viewing platform on the 128 m summit with views over Queen Charlotte Sound, and Cook’s Cairn nearby.
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.