The Queen Charlotte Track is nestled in the Marlborough Sounds and is one of New Zealand's most iconic and famous walking and biking trails. It isn’t one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, but it should be! You’ll see everything from coastline and crystal-clear water to wildlife and native bush. Every step feels like you’re walking through a postcard.

I hiked this trail when I was a teenager (maybe 16?) and was at that terrible age when you don't really appreciate how special the world is. I can't wait to get back here again one day and really enjoy a good thing when I see one.

Track overview

• Difficulty: Moderate but long

• Length: 73.5km

• Time: 3-5 days

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of the longest multi-day walks in Aotearoa, but it’s very well-maintained, and I don't think it's too challenging. There are plenty of gentle hills, and the longest day is 25km, but the views are so good you’ll be forced to slow down and take your time.

Most people hike the whole trail in 3–5 days. It is also possible to mountain bike on the Queen Charlotte Track in 2-3 days between March and November.

The route stretches from Ship Cove (Meretoto) to Anakiwa, boasting endless panoramic views of the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. You’ll start in Picton and take a 1-hour 15-minute water taxi to Ship Cove. This, plus your return trip from Anakiwi, must be booked in advance! If you don’t want to carry a heavy pack, Cougar Line offers a Round Trip Track Pass ($140 adults/$70 children), which includes free luggage transfer between each lodge, so you only need to carry a day pack each day!

Accommodation on the Queen Charlotte Track

There are campsites along the track, as well as boutique lodges and five-star luxury resorts. When my family were here, we stayed at Lochmara Lodge, Punga Cove Resort, and Furneaux Lodge. These are some of the most popular places, but there are plenty of other options depending on your budget/taste for the finer things in life.

You can book each lodge by yourself, but if you’d rather someone else organise everything for you, Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company offers Freedom Packages, including accommodation, water taxis, luggage transfers, land passes, and a packed lunch each day.