WELCOME WELCOME   The friendliness of this quaint waterfront village, snuggled between the hills and the sea, will bring you back time and time again. Picton has so much to offer - modern facilities, an appealing central business district, award-winning restaurants and cafes plus world-class tourism activities - all brought together with the simplest of pleasures for all the family. Admire the buildings and ships of times past - the Edwin Fox, the Picton Railway Station and the scow ‘Echo’ across the harbour. Watch the ferries glide in and out alongside the bustle of fishing and pleasure boats in this picturesque harbour. Take a stroll along the Picton foreshore; enjoy the manicured gardens and the children at play - a great place to enjoy an ice-cream or fish and chips on a balmy summer evening in paradise. Families will love a visit to Seahorse World . . . A visit to nearby Waikawa will reward with its attractive foreshore, marae and world-class marina. Of course, the Picton area is a haven for the creative individual and it is here you’ll be able to visit the many talented craftspeople that draw their inspiration form this special place.   Stroll the streets and enjoy the easy shopping and the wide range of choices when it is time to re-charge the body at any of the quality cafes, restaurants and bars. Stop and chat with the people who live here - for it is the people who will take you to the heart of this little town. Picton is a great place for your holiday – water and land lovers alike. Enjoy a variety of accommodation in Picton from backpackers, B&B to motel or hotel. Or, stay in a guest house or resort hidden away in a secluded Marlborough Sounds cove. On the Water An alluring blue-green, the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds entice. Try sailing, cruising, fishing or kayaking - just some of the water-borne activities on offer here. Use your own gear or turn to any of the friendly tour operators for bareboat or skippered charters to visit favourite spots. You’ll experience the magic of islands, bird sanctuaries, marine reserves and salmon farms … while watching out for dolphins, seals, little blue penguins and the occasional orca. Tape a trip back in time at Motuara Island and Ship Cove - places frequented by Captain Cook in centuries past. The excitement of wreck diving, wind surfing, jet skis or water skiing can be yours – or the lasting memories of quiet bush walks by the sea. On the Land Explore friendly Picton and environs by car, bicycle, tandem or motor scooter. Play golf or mini-golf, enjoy a wine tour, gourmet or craft trail, or even try a little paragliding. Travel by boat to walk or mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track or enjoy one of the many short walks in and around the township. Farm experiences within minutes of Picton will give you a taste of rural New Zealand and the town is great base for your day trips that take you further afield … Queen Charlotte Drive to Havelock, historic Port Underwood and the Nelson Lakes National Park. Let our visitor information centre help you make the most of your stay here while the local tour operators will host you through the countryside rich in history and culture. In the Air Taking a scenic flight over the Sounds is a truly unforgettable experience. So much beauty, so close – stretched beneath you as you discover these waterways of unparalleled beauty all over again with a fresh perspective.