Discover Picton by Hire Car
At the very north of New Zealand, lies the small sleepy harbour town of Picton.
The town was named after a British general of the same name who died at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
For many visitors to the South Island, Picton is the first port of call, as it has a ferry connection with Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, which is located on the North Island.
Recreational Activities in Picton
Also departing from Picton harbour are sometimes multi-day tours of the Marlborough Sounds, an extensive network of islands and sea lanes. First and foremost, the sea is Picton’s biggest attraction, so a variety of water sports can be enjoyed, or you can simply enjoy the view from the waterfront.
One highlight is the opportunity to swim with dolphins in the surrounding waters, getting up close and personal with the only swimming mammals.
Historically, there is the Whaling Museum, where you can learn about Picton’s whaling fleet. Culturally, there are a few small exhibitions dealing with the subject of New Zealand’s indigenous people, the Maori.
Exploring the Picton area
If the attractions of Picton are not enough for them, the surrounding areas of the Marlborough region can be explored with a hire car.
A visit to the vineyards followed by a tasting should definitely be on the itinerary for wine lovers.
The region is relatively sparsely populated and the few inhabitants are concentrated in the coastal areas, so those seeking solitude and seclusion will absolutely find it inland.
To the far south are the last foothills of the New Zealand Alps, which are great for hiking.