The Queen Charlotte Track
Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand
Located at the top of the South Island, the Queen Charlotte is one of
New Zealand's most spectacular walking tracks. It is also one of
the most easily accessible, offering a spectacular trip through the Marlborough
Sounds, from the historic Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in the Grove Arm.
The track spans some 71 km. It passes through lush coastal forest, meanders
around historic bays, and along skyline ridges with 
spectacular
views of the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.
Most of the track is wide and benched, and all major streams have been
bridged.
The entire 71 kilometres of the Queen Charlotte Track
is open to mountain biking from March to the end of November.
The track passes through a variety of vegetation types, from grassy farmland
to undisturbed native forests. At sea level, the forests are particularly
lush. Ferns, tree ferns, nikau palms, climbing kiekie vines and perching
plants make up a spectacular coastal forest.
Several forest birds are common along the track, including the bellbird,
tui, fantails and the weka. Along the shoreline shags (cormorants), gannets,
terns and shearwaters can also be glimpsed.
There are a number of accommodation options along the track route, providing
cabin, motel and hotel lodgings and tent sites, as well as a number of
DOC campsites, each with toilets and a water supply.
The entire track can be enjoyed in 3-5 days. Shorter walks are easily
arranged and provide a wonderful experience. If you prefer mountain biking
then around 13 hours is needed to complete the entire length of
the Queen Charlotte Track.
IMPORTANT: Queen Charlotte Track Pass
The Queen Charlotte Track is a unique New Zealand partnership between the Department of Conservation, Marlborough District Council and private landowners.
A Q.C.T.L.C. Pass is required for all Q.C.T.L.C. private land between Kenepuru Saddle, Torea Saddle, Te Mahia Saddle or Anakiwa, when hiking or biking the Queen Charlotte Track.
Pass Fees are as follows:
- $12 , valid for up to 4 consecutive days.
- $25 yearly pass also available.
- School Children free.
The pass fee contibutes to the sustainability of the track and assists with maintenance, enhancements and access.
Useful stuff to help you plan your trip
Queen Charlotte Track Map
Track distances and walking times
Accommodation & camping guide
Walking recommendations
Short walk suggestions
Day walks on the Track
"Pack transfers"
- making your walk easy !!
Mountain biking on the Track
Endeavour Express boat travel guide
Fares
Track transport timetable
Make a booking
Enquire for more information
Endeavour Express Homepage
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