Picton Cruise Terminal NZ: Things To Do & Guide
Welcome to Picton, the charming gateway to New Zealand’s stunning Marlborough region. Whether you’re stepping off the cruise ship for a few hours or planning a longer stay, Picton offers a unique blend of natural beauty, maritime history, and local culture. For cruise passengers with limited time, knowing how to maximise your visit is key and that’s where this guide comes in.
Imagine starting your day with a quiet stroll along Picton’s lesser-known Bob’s Bay trail, where you can enjoy peaceful views of Queen Charlotte Sound away from the usual tourist spots. Or perhaps you’re craving a taste of the region? Skip the touristy cafés and head to Picton Village Bakkerij for a steak and cheese pie that locals rave about. Whether you’re exploring the famous Marlborough wine region or learning the secrets of the Edwin Fox, one of the oldest ships in the world, we’ve got you covered with insider tips and hidden gems that most cruise visitors miss.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do, how to navigate transport efficiently, and which local spots are truly worth your time. Get ready to make the most of your Picton stop without feeling like you’re just another tourist.
This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.
Overview of Picton Cruise Port
Picton Cruise Port is the gateway for travellers arriving by sea, offering a seamless transition from ship to shore. The port is well-equipped to handle the influx of cruise passengers, providing a range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Cruise Port Terminal
Cruise Ships either berth at Waimahara Wharf in Shakespeare Bay or Waitohi Wharf, close to the town, depending on their size. Waimahara Wharf is mostly used for log exports and as a berth for large cruise ships, so you cannot walk around the port. Therefore, Port Authorities arrange a complimentary shuttle bus into town.
Our cruise ship, Celebrity Solstice, docked at Waimahara Wharf, and it took five minutes by bus to get to the I-Site Visitor Information Centre.
The terminal itself is modern and efficient, offering essential amenities such as restrooms, information desks, and seating areas. Friendly staff are on hand to assist with any queries and provide information about the town and available excursions. Clear signage and helpful port staff guided me through the terminal.
Remember to have your identification and necessary travel documents ready.
Port Facilities and Services
The Picton Cruise Port, while compact, is designed with travellers’ needs in mind. Facilities at the port include:
- Information Centre: Right on the waterfront, the Picton i-SITE Visitor Information Centre has maps, brochures, and personalised advice on making the most of your time in Picton and the wider Marlborough region.
- Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available at the visitor centre, library, and in various spots throughout the town.
- Transportation Services: Just outside the cruise terminal, you’ll find a range of transportation options, including shuttle buses, taxis, and car rental services, making it easy to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Plan Ahead: While spontaneous exploration has its charms, having a rough plan can help you make the most of your time in Picton, especially if you’re only there for a day.
- Check the Weather: The weather can change quickly in New Zealand. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon, so it’s wise to wear appropriate clothing.
- Local Currency: While many places accept credit cards, having some New Zealand dollars on hand for small purchases or tips can be helpful.
Things To Do from Picton Cruise Port
Picton, New Zealand, is brimming with attractions and activities that cater to a wide range of interests – from scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and historical sites.
Marlborough Sounds
The Marlborough Sounds are an iconic feature of the Picton area, renowned for their stunning natural beauty and tranquil waters. Visitors can explore the sounds through various activities.
Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise
4.6/5⭐️
On this popular tour, you visit the remote communities of Queen Charlotte Sound aboard a working mail boat. This scenic four-hour boat cruise departs Picton in the afternoon and makes New Zealand Post rural delivery service along different routes each day of the week. The boat captain shares regional history and stories of these isolated hamlets while you enjoy complimentary tea and coffee onboard. From the 1st October to 30th April, you get to disembark for a 15-minute stop at Ship Cove, a favourite anchorage of Captain Cook and the site of early contact between Maoris and Europeans.
This cruise books up fast, so check availability here.
Water and Wilderness Scenic Flight Tour
4.9/5⭐️
The Water and Wilderness Scenic Flight Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the spectacular Marlborough Sounds from the air. See the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, and Pelorus Sounds from above and land on a remote beach. The tour will have a maximum of 6 travellers.
See Availability Direct with Pelorus Air here.
Half day Sea Kayak Guided Tour from Picton
4.9/5⭐️
Half-day tour of the western end of Queen Charlotte Sound on a kayak adventure from Picton. Follow an expert guide from the waterfront to sheltered coves and remote beaches as you search for eagle rays, cormorants, little blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, and dolphins. Learn about the area’s natural history from an expert guide and, as numbers are limited, you will receive personalised attention. There’s the choice of morning or afternoon tours.
E-Ko New Zealand Wildlife and Dolphin Tours
4.7/5⭐️
E-Ko New Zealand runs various tours from Picton, but the times of your cruise ship arrival and departure will depend on what ones you can do.
The Half-Day Dolphin Viewing Eco-Tour is a 2-hour cruise run by certified Department of Conservation operators, allowing you to interact with dusky, bottlenose, and orca dolphins in a safe, fun, and eco-friendly way.
The Marlborough Sounds Ultimate Cruise offers an amazing, fully-guided experience. This small-group tour allows you to view some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery and wildlife. You will visit Motuara Island and cruise the calm waters of the majestic Queen Charlotte Sound led by enthusiastic and fun guides.
Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum
4.5/5⭐️
The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum tells the story of the world’s second-oldest surviving merchant sailing ship. This immersive museum offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its various voyages, including transporting convicts to Australia and immigrants to New Zealand.
Indulge in the Marlborough Wine Region
The Marlborough region is renowned for its world-class wineries and picturesque vineyards. A visit to Picton wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the area’s finest wines.
Wines of Marlborough Cruise Excursion Tour
4.9/5⭐️
The Wines of Marlborough cruise excursion tour is a brilliant way to experience the Marlborough wine region. You will catch the bus provided by the cruise ship into the Picton information centre (i-site) where you will meet your driver for the day. They will talk you through the tour itinerary and then take you on a 30 minute drive through to the Marlborough wine region.
You will visit 5 wineries for tastings (dependent on the timing of your cruise ship departure from Picton). Your friendly and knowledgeable driver will provide you with a wealth of information on the region and the wines. Midway through the day we will stop for a delicious lunch at one of the wineries (lunch is at your own cost ). At the end of the afternoon before returning to the ship we will go via the local chocolate shop before having you back in Picton in time to catch the cruise buses back to the ship.
See Availability Direct with Explore Marlborough here.
Cruise Ship Shore Excursions – JADE WINE TOUR
4.9/5⭐️
This tour departure depends on the docking times and return to port is about 90 minutes prior to sailing. They visit 4 or 5 wineries and stop for lunch (own cost) at a vineyard restaurant, depending on the time available.
The air-conditioned minibus will depart the I-Site and carry you the 25 minutes to the Wairau Valley – home of the world famous Sauvignon Blanc varietal. Your local guides are full of history and discussion along the way. The small groups offer a more personalised and rewarding experience.
See Availability Direct with Jade Wine Tours here.
Marlborough Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour
4.4/5⭐️
The Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour lets you discover the wonders of Marlborough in your own time. You can plan your day by following the bus timetable on your self-guided tour. You may need to pay for tastings at the various venues.
If you’re not a drinker, there is still plenty to see, with a range of activities like museums, bike tours, a chocolate shop, and delicious food to be sampled.
Private Marlborough Winery Tour
5/5⭐️
The tour will tailor a Marlborough wine tour, especially for you or your group’s needs. You decide when to start and finish the tour and get behind the scenes for a private tasting. They can focus on boutique, organic wineries, breweries, fine wine, and food; anything is possible with this private tour. If you have children under 12, the tour can visit wineries more suited to young families.
See Availability Direct with Hop N Grape Tours here.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For the adventurous, kayaking and paddle boarding in the Marlborough Sounds offer tranquillity and excitement. Rentals and guided tours are available, allowing you to explore the secluded coves and crystal-clear waters at your own pace.
Explore the Queen Charlotte Track
One of New Zealand’s premier hiking trails, the Queen Charlotte Track, is accessible directly from Picton. This stunning track offers panoramic views of the Sounds, with options ranging from short walks to multi-day hikes. If you are on a tighter schedule, a day hike or a guided tour can provide a taste of the track’s breathtaking scenery.
Queen Charlotte Drive
If you want to do your own thing, hire a vehicle from one of the car rental companies in Picton. We use Europcar, but there are plenty to choose from.
After collecting your hire car, head north on Queen Charlotte Drive towards Havelock. The panorama is amazing, and there are plenty of bays to pull over to capture the views, like the one below. It is regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world.
It’s 40km of winding roads, so care needs to be taken when driving, but it’s an easy and stunning drive.
Groves Arm Jetty
Groves Arm Jetty is a lovely place to stop to take a break from driving and enjoy the astounding view.
The road then crosses Linkland, which is 5km of land between the head of Pelorus Sound and Queen Charlotte Sound. It’s a straight part of the drive before starting the twists and turns of the final journey.
Cullen Point Lookout
Cullen Point Lookout is 5.5 km along Queen Charlotte Drive from Havelock. There’s a car park and toilets, and it’s a 10-minute walk to the lookout, which provides views of Mahau Sound and Kaituna and Pelorus estuaries.
This drive ends in the town of Havelock.
Visit Blenheim
You can head back south to Blenheim, a town in the heart of the Marlborough region. There are plenty of shops and cafes, or you can relax in Seymour Square. This beautiful park has a clock tower commemorating those killed in the Great War (World War I). It also has a gorgeous World War II Memorial Fountain, which E. Hubbard designed. The garden beds are spectacular, and the park is used for the annual garden fête during Garden Marlborough.
Relax at Picton Waterfront and Marina
Picton is a pretty seaside town with plenty of options for sampling this region’s delicious seafood. There are numerous walks to take which provide marvellous views of the area.
The town park, Picton Memorial Park, gets very busy, with a mixture of locals and tourists enjoying the weather and all that the park offers.
Coathanger Bridge, near Picton Marina, connects the town to Shelley Beach and Bob’s Bay. Shelley Beach is only a 10-minute walk from the foreshore.
Ride the Marlborough Flyer
When your ship pulls into port, board the Marlborough Flyer, a historic World War I Memorial Locomotive (Passchendaele (1915). On this restored heritage steam train, you will see two towns in one day as you follow your guide on a scenic rail journey between Picton and Blenheim.
Local Eats and Dining in Picton
Picton offers a range of dining options, from fresh seafood to local wines and farm-to-table fare. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite by the waterfront or a fine dining experience, Picton’s culinary scene promises to leave you satisfied and eager to explore more of the region’s flavours.
Fresh Seafood
Given its coastal location, it’s no surprise that Picton is home to some of the freshest seafood in New Zealand. Local restaurants pride themselves on serving up dishes that showcase the best of the ocean:
- Green-Lipped Mussels: A local specialty, these plump and juicy mussels are a must-try. Many restaurants in Picton feature them on their menus, often served in a variety of delicious broths or simply steamed to perfection.
- Fish and Chips: For a more casual meal, indulge in a classic Kiwi fish and chips. Enjoy freshly caught fish, battered and fried to golden perfection, often served with a side of crispy fries and a stunning view of the waterfront.
Marlborough Wine and Local Produce
Picton is located in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and other premium wines. Many of the town’s eateries feature local wines on their menus, allowing you to pair your meal with the perfect glass. Alongside wine, you’ll find plenty of dishes that celebrate the region’s agricultural bounty:
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Many restaurants in Picton focus on sourcing local ingredients, offering dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of the region’s produce. Expect seasonal vegetables, locally raised meats, and artisanal cheeses to be central to the menus.
- Wine Tastings: In addition to dining, several restaurants and wine bars offer tastings of Marlborough’s best wines, allowing you to sample a range of varietals alongside light bites or a full meal.
Popular Restaurants and Cafés
Picton boasts a variety of dining establishments that cater to all preferences, from laid-back cafes to sophisticated restaurants. Here are a few standout options:
- Cortado Restaurant & Bar: This popular restaurant has harbour views and a diverse menu that includes everything from seafood to wood-fired pizzas. It’s a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with views overlooking the marina.
- The Barn Bar & Grill: Known for its rustic charm and hearty meals, the menu features a mix of New Zealand classics and international dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen: Located right on the waterfront, Oxley’s is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with a view. The menu showcases a range of seafood dishes, as well as local lamb and beef options, all paired with Marlborough wines.
Weather in the Marlborough region
December to March has the best weather, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The warmest month is February, while July is the coldest, with maximum temperatures around 12 C. The Marlborough region is said to have the best climate in New Zealand.
Travel Tips and Best Practices for Visiting Picton
I’ve compiled a list of travel tips and best practices based on personal experiences and comprehensive research to ensure you make the most of your time in this picturesque town and its surroundings. These insights will help you navigate your trip smoothly and enhance your adventure in Picton.
Pack for All Seasons
The weather in Picton, like much of New Zealand, can be quite variable, even within a single day. Layering is key. Bring a mix of lightweight and warm clothing, ensuring you’re prepared for sunny days as well as cooler evenings. A waterproof jacket is a must-have, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities regardless of a sudden rain shower.
Currency and Payments
New Zealand’s currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), and while many places in Picton accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, particularly in markets or smaller shops. ATMs are available in the town centre, and currency exchange services can be found at the cruise terminal.
Tipping is not customary in New Zealand and is generally not expected, but you can leave a tip if you feel you received exceptional service.
Language
The official language in New Zealand is English, so communication should be straightforward for most travellers. However, you may also hear some phrases in Māori, the language of New Zealand’s indigenous people. Learning a few basic Māori greetings, such as “Kia ora” (hello), can be a fun way to connect with the local culture.
Respect the Environment
Picton and the Marlborough Sounds are renowned for their natural beauty. It’s important to respect these environments by following the principle of “Leave No Trace.” Dispose of rubbish properly, stay on designated trails when hiking or biking, and be mindful of wildlife and plant life. Preserving the area’s natural beauty ensures it can be enjoyed by future visitors.
Use Local Transportation Wisely
Picton is well-serviced by local transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. Consider the length of your stay and what you plan to do when choosing transportation. Renting a car might offer more flexibility to explore nearby attractions or vineyards. However, for closer sights or if you prefer not to drive, the local shuttle services and taxis are convenient and reliable.
Explore Beyond the Beaten Path
While Picton’s main attractions are well worth visiting, there’s much to be discovered by going off the beaten path. Ask locals for recommendations or visit the Picton i-SITE for advice on hidden gems. Whether it’s a secluded beach, a lesser-known hiking trail, or a small vineyard, exploring beyond the tourist spots can lead to some of the most memorable experiences.
Support Local Businesses
Picton’s charm is largely due to its vibrant community and local businesses. From artisan shops to cafes and restaurants, supporting these local enterprises enriches your travel experience and contributes to the local economy. Try local specialties, purchase crafts from local artisans, and engage with the community to get a deeper sense of place.
Be Prepared for Adventure
Picton is the gateway to countless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, kayaking, cycling, or wildlife tours, being prepared will enhance your experience. This means having the right gear, knowing your limits, and being aware of the conditions. Safety should always come first, so heed local advice and use reputable tour operators for activities.
Making the Most of Your Time
Since most cruise stopovers in Picton are relatively short, it’s important to prioritise your activities to make the most of your time:
- Plan Ahead: Research the top attractions and activities that interest you, and plan your day accordingly. Pre-booking tours or excursions can save you time and ensure you get a spot on popular activities. Always check the times of tours before booking.
- Stick to a Schedule: Keep track of your time, especially if you’re exploring independently. Make sure to return to the ship well before the departure time to avoid missing your cruise.
Picton Facts
The Māori name for the town, Waitohi, translates as “waters of the tohi ritual”, a baptismal ritual of warriors before they went into battle. The Te Atiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui iwi occupied Waitohi Pā (Māori village) on the site of the present town.
Sir George Grey and Sir Francis Dillon purchased the land in 1850 from Te Āti Awa, who moved to Waikawa Bay. In 1859, the Marlborough province was established, and the newly named Picton became the provincial capital, which moved to Blenheim in 1865.
Picton is named after Sir Thomas Picton, who was killed in the Battle of Waterloo. However, due to his treatment of slaves and the authorisation of torture while Governor of Trinidad, there have been calls to rethink the name ‘Picton’ prompted by Black Lives Matter protests worldwide.
Conclusion
As my comprehensive guide to Picton draws to a close, it’s clear that this charming New Zealand town is more than just a scenic stopover; it’s a destination brimming with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.
