Last updated November 2026
The Mount Stokes Track climbs a ridge above Kenepuru Sound to the summit of Mount Stokes (1203 m), the highest point in the Marlborough Sounds, about 49 km from Blenheim. DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track and allows 4–5 hours return.
The track starts on Kenepuru Road, 41 km from the Linkwater turn-off on Queen Charlotte Drive. Near the top DOC describes a unique sub-alpine habitat, with spectacular views from the summit. Check DOC and the weather before you go, and tell someone your plans.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Mount Stokes Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Kenepuru Road, 41 km from the Linkwater turn-off on Queen Charlotte Drive
- Distance from the city
- About 49 km from Blenheim
- Walking time
- 4–5 hr return
- Track length
- About 3.3 km (calculated from the DOC track line)
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Dogs with a DOC permit only (hunting)
- Summit
- Mount Stokes (Māori name Pororangi), 1203 m
- 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 Mount Stokes Track
The track is short on distance but climbs all the way to the top. The track follows a ridge from Kenepuru Road up to the summit, and DOC promises a unique sub-alpine habitat near the top along with spectacular views from the highest point in the Sounds.
Allow most of a half-day for the return trip. DOC warns the track can experience alpine conditions, including thick fog, so come prepared for the weather to change.
The mountain has two names. Its Māori name is Pororangi. The English name honours Captain John Stokes, who surveyed the whole New Zealand coastline from 1848 to 1851 aboard the survey ship Acheron, calling at the Sounds in 1849.
The walk suits fit, experienced trampers who are prepared for changeable weather.
Getting There
From Queen Charlotte Drive, turn off at Linkwater onto Kenepuru Road. The track starts 41 km along Kenepuru Road from the turn-off. DOC notes Kenepuru Road is narrow and winding. Severe weather has damaged many roads in Marlborough, so check the Marlborough District Council road updates before you travel.
Weather and Track Conditions
The Sounds weather is generally mild, but conditions change quickly, and higher up this track can turn alpine. Check the forecast before you go, and DOC’s advice is clear: don’t go past the bushline if visibility is poor.
Carry water and warm, waterproof layers. Light fires only in designated areas. In late summer and autumn, carry antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings. Use Plan My Walk to prepare, tell someone your plans, and take a way to call for help.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Mount Stokes Track: 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 DOC tracks, campsites and alerts around the Pelorus and Kenepuru sounds.
Plan My Walk: a free planning tool for weather, gear lists and sharing your intentions before a tramp.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Mount Stokes Track take?
DOC allows 4–5 hours return.
How high is Mount Stokes?
The summit is 1203 m, the highest point in the Marlborough Sounds.
How hard is the walk?
DOC grades it as an advanced tramping track. It climbs a ridge to the summit and can have alpine conditions, including thick fog.
Where does the track start?
On Kenepuru Road, 41 km from the Linkwater turn-off on Queen Charlotte Drive.
Are dogs allowed?
Only with a DOC permit (for hunting). Contact the nearest DOC office to get one.
What should I take?
Water, warm and waterproof clothing, and antihistamine in late summer and autumn if you react to wasp stings.
What if the weather turns?
DOC says not to go past the bushline if visibility is poor. Check the forecast before you set out.
Why is it called Mount Stokes?
It is named after Captain John Stokes, who charted New Zealand’s coastline in the survey ship Acheron. Its Māori name is Pororangi.
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.