Last updated July 2026
Okiwi Bay is a small settlement and sheltered bay on the western edge of the Marlborough Sounds, located on Croisilles Harbour. It lies approximately 92 km from Blenheim, a drive of about 1 hour 20 minutes via Rai Valley, and around 68 km from Nelson, roughly 1 hour 6 minutes. The bay serves as a popular access point for the privately operated Okiwi Bay Holiday Park, calm-water swimming, and a public boat ramp used for fishing and diving launches. It remains a quieter alternative to the inner Sounds, attracting families, boaters and those seeking a relaxed coastal stay.
Practical Information
| Location | Croisilles Harbour, western Marlborough Sounds |
| From Blenheim | 92 km — about 1 hour 20 minutes via Rai Valley and Okiwi Bay Road |
| From Nelson | 68 km — about 1 hour 6 minutes |
| Holiday Park | Privately operated — powered and unpowered sites, lodge, cabins, hot showers, kitchen, laundry, dump point, convenience store |
| Swimming | Sheltered bay with sandy section at the eastern end exposed at low tide |
| Boat Ramp | Public ramp popular for fishing and diving |
| Fuel | Diesel available at the holiday park; no 91 or 95 petrol |
| Cost | Free to visit the bay; fees apply for holiday park stays |
About Okiwi Bay
Okiwi Bay sits at the head of a long sheltered inlet off Croisilles Harbour. The surrounding hills and limited fetch keep the water inside the bay calm for most of the time, making it suitable for swimming, kayaking and small-boat use. The western shore consists mainly of stones and shingle, while a sandy patch appears at the eastern end between rocks at low tide, providing the preferred family swimming spot amid native bush.
The Okiwi Bay Holiday Park is the main settlement feature and primary reason most visitors come. It offers powered and unpowered sites, a lodge and cabins, plus a convenience store, hot showers, kitchen and laundry. The park is privately owned and operated; it is not a Department of Conservation campsite. The former DOC Okiwi Bay Campsite is closed for overnight stays and may only be used for picnics and parking.
The bay functions as a key fishing and diving base. The public boat ramp sees regular use in summer, with launches heading to the outer Marlborough Sounds, French Pass and surrounding areas. The sealed road from Rai Valley narrows and winds closer to the bay but remains fully accessible by standard vehicles.
The Drive to Okiwi Bay
The route from Blenheim follows State Highway 6 through Rai Valley before turning onto Okiwi Bay Road. The entire road is sealed. Allow extra time for the winding final section. No 91 or 95 petrol is available beyond Rai Valley, though diesel can be obtained at the holiday park.
Activities at Okiwi Bay
Visitors enjoy swimming in the sheltered waters, fishing from the shore or by boat, scuba diving, kayaking and short walks in the surrounding native bush. The location also provides a convenient starting point for boat trips toward French Pass and the outer Sounds without requiring long gravel-road travel.
What Visitors Often Say
Many describe the bay as peaceful and family-friendly, with calm water ideal for children and easy boat launching. Reviewers note the holiday park provides basic but convenient facilities and appreciate the quiet setting compared with busier Sounds locations.
Boaties and divers frequently mention the ramp as a reliable launch spot for day trips. Some comment that the sandy swimming area is small but pleasant at low tide, and the overall atmosphere suits those seeking a low-key coastal escape.
Where to Learn More
Okiwi Bay Holiday Park official website: current rates, bookings, site map and facility details for the private holiday park.
DOC Okiwi Bay area page: official information on the broader area and current campsite status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Okiwi Bay from Blenheim?
Approximately 92 km, with a typical driving time of about 1 hour 20 minutes via Rai Valley.
Is Okiwi Bay good for swimming?
Yes, the sheltered bay offers calm water. The best sandy section appears at the eastern end at low tide.
Is the Okiwi Bay Holiday Park run by DOC?
No, it is privately operated. Book directly with the park. The former DOC campsite is closed for overnight use.
Can you launch a boat at Okiwi Bay?
Yes, a public boat ramp is available and popular for fishing and diving.
Is fuel available at Okiwi Bay?
Diesel is available at the holiday park, but 91 and 95 petrol are no longer sold there. The nearest full fuel options are in Rai Valley.
Are there shops at Okiwi Bay?
A convenience store at the holiday park stocks basics. Stock up in Rai Valley for a wider range.
Are dogs allowed at the holiday park?
Policies vary; check directly with the park for current rules.
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