Queen Charlotte Track Hike & Cruise

OVERVIEW

Experience the pure wonder of Queen Charlotte Sound up-close as you hike along the pathway that tracks its shoreline, ferried there and back by motor launch. You’ll board the Sounds Adventure at the pier, across the sound at a casual pace, all the better to admire the stunning scenery. Your destination is Mistletoe Bay – where you’ll step ashore for a guided trek along an especially picturesque stretch of the 45-mile route known as the Queen Charlotte Track. You’ll be walking over a clay soil bridle path originally traveled by the Maori, through relatively level terrain that rewards you for your effort with sensational scenery nearly every step of the way. Pass bushlands laden with palms, ferns, and delicate flowering orchids. Peer up at some of the same towering rimu trees Captain Cook would have seen during his own visit to this sound in the 1770s. Spot agile gannets swooping into the water for fish and listen of the fluting calls of the greenish bellbird or the highly intelligent tui, a bird that can imitate human speech. The flora and fauna are ever changing and always awe-inspiring. After about 90 minutes, you’ll be back on the launch, bound for Picton.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Step directly into the scenery surrounding Queen Charlotte Sound on a guided perimeter walk.
• Travel by motor launch across the sound to remote Mistletoe Bay, where you’ll pick up the path.
• Trek through ancient forest and lush, ferny bushland along a track that dates back to pioneer times.
• Hear exotic bird calls as you gaze down on the sound’s majestic sea-flooded valleys and hidden coves.
• With your guide leading the way, return to the launch for the scenic run back across to the pier.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.