Before the wine industry came along, Marlborough`s fame lay with its sounds—sunken valleys that are home to all kinds of wonderful bird and sea life, including terns, shags, blue penguins, dolphins and seals. Queen Charlotte , Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds can be explored by boat—ferry, runabout, luxury charter launch or kayak. Admire the spectacular scenery where bush and mountains rise straight from the sea, and secret coves beckon you for a swim.

Queen Charlotte Track is another way to appreciate the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. The 67 kilometre track passes through lush coastal forest, around coves and inlets, and along skyline ridges offering breathtaking views of the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.

Guided trout fishing and hunting tours are other ways to appreciate the beauty of the Marlborough landscape. The average brown trout in this region weighs between one to three kilograms, depending on the fishing ground.

Wellington city - capital of New Zealand

Porirua - a major retail centre and home to Pataka - museum of Pacific art and culture

Hutt City - across the harbour from Wellington city

Upper Hutt - at the base of the Rimutaka hills

Kapiti Coast - with its warm, relaxed climate

Wellington
Whether you want to dabble in history or indulge at divine restaurants, Wellington is a capital city with a great deal of style. Enjoy!

Kapiti Island
Kapiti Island is a nature reserve that protects some of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered birds. Launch trips leave from Paraparaumu Beach.

Lower Hutt
Lower Hutt’s riverside location makes it attractive in any season. Enjoy excellent museums and art galleries or drive the bays to Eastbourne.

Otaki
From the rural town of Otaki you can plan expeditions into the Tararua Forest Park, where there are great hiking and hunting opportunities.

Paraparaumu
Golf, gourmet foods and scenic flights are three reasons to spend some time in Paraparaumu. This sunny coastal town promises plenty to do.

Porirua
The harbour city of Porirua is just 15 minutes north of Wellington. It’s the home of Pataka, one of New Zealand’s most important museums.

Upper Hutt
Upper Hutt is a city for fresh air and outdoor fun. Hike or bike in the hills, fish in the river and stroll some of the 50 parks and reserves.

Waikanae
Take a break in Waikanae to discover the nature reserve. Pathways allow you to explore the swamp forest habitat and the eels are fed at 2pm.

Carterton
Carterton is known for its daffodils, antique shops and historic cottages, or you can delve into the wilderness of the Tararua Forest Park.

Eketahuna
The settlement of Eketahuna is situated on the banks of the Makakahi River. In kiwi slang, Eketahuna represents the archetypal small country town.

Featherston
If you’re a railway or military enthusiast, you’ll want to visit Featherston. This historic Wairarapa town is known for seriously good museums.

Greytown
The main street of Greytown is memorable for its carefully restored Victorian wooden buildings. Charming cafes and restaurants are a strong point too.

Martinborough
Martinborough is all about food, wine and having a fine time. Park yourself in a character cottage and discover the vineyards and restaurants on foot.

Masterton
In Masterton every March, sheep shearing is hailed as an art form. This town is the main shopping and service centre for the rural Wairarapa region.

Woodville
If you like to fossick around antique shops, spend a few hours in Woodville. Hunt for china, collectables and authentic New Zealand knick knacks.