Make your own way to Picton, the gateway to Marlborough Sounds, and check-in to your tour accommodation any time after 2:00pm. Take some time to stroll along the waterfront of this picturesque seaside town with its sheltered harbour and bustling marina, or take one of several short walks through native bushland for fabulous views over Queen Charlotte Sound. There are many great cafes, restaurants and galleries plus an aqaurium and floating maritime museum.

Meals:  Nil

You will be collected early this morning between 7.00am and 8.00am from your tour accommodation and transferred to the Picton waterfront for a trip briefing before departing on your scenic water taxi journey to Ship Cove (approx 1 - 1.5hrs). (During very busy periods, trip briefings will take place the previous evening; exact timing will be advised with your final documents.) Considered one of the most important meeting places between New Zealand Maori and Europeans, the site is a historical reserve. It was a significant place of habitation for local Maori as well as the place where Captain Cook first stepped ashore, and subsequently anchored many times during the 1770's, while exploring the New Zealand coastline. The Queen Charlotte Track commences from here with a gradual steady climb through native bush, including spectacular podocarp and beech forest. With two main ascents and descents today affording wonderful views, plus sections of untouched native forest including a gigantic 1000 year old rimu tree, this day is considered the finest section of the whole track. Concluding at historic Furneaux Lodge, where you spend the night, this truly is a fantastic day.

Meals:  L

Enjoy a leisurely start this morning as today’s walk is shorter than yesterday's. From Furneaux Lodge the track follows the coastline all day, with lovely views of the inlet as you trace its shore. Passing through nature reserve, regenerating native forest and farmland there is also some history along the way. Information panels at the head of Endeavour Inlet describe local antimony mining operations that burgeoned in the 1880's. It is hard to imagine a village of 800 people at that location now. Explore the beach at Camp Bay, nearing the end of today's walk, before making your way to Punga Cove and your accommodation for the night.

Meals:  L

Start early today to make the most of every moment as it is the longest day on the whole track. It is also the most challenging but has the most spectacular views which makes the effort worthwhile. Starting near sea level and eventually reaching the highest point on the trail (475m above sea level) there are some steep sections, including the short detour to Eatwell's Lookout, named after a local landowner. The rewards are 360 degree views from the lookout, plus far-reaching panoramas of the Marlborough Sounds at every turn. Following the ridgeline for much of the day, be sure to stop for photos and breathe it all in. This is truly a magic section of the track. From Torea Bay Saddle, the track drops down to your accommodation tonight at Portage Hotel, surrounded by native bush and with more superb views over Kenepuru Sound from your room.

Meals:  L

Today is a chance to relax and rest your body after the exertions of the last few days. Enjoy reading a book on the deck or you may like to wander around the gardens, amble down to a local beach or sip a coffee while taking in the view. If you feel more energetic but would like a change of pace, a guided sea kayaking trip to explore nearby coves might appeal (please arrange this with us in advance; additional cost applies and you will need to bring suitable footwear and clothing for paddling; trip is subject to minimum numbers and weather conditions). The lodge also has an information desk for other cruises and optional activities that can be arranged onsite. There are no meals included today (unless you join an optional organised day excursion, at own expense, that includes lunch). Overnight again at Portage Hotel.

Meals:  Nil

After a restful day yesterday, find your walking legs again today for the last section of the Queen Charlotte Track. Ascend from the Portage Hotel to the main track on the ridgeline once again this morning. There is a steep climb for a couple of hours from here but once again the views are rewarding as you look towards to Picton. This is the steepest part of the trail today and beyond this the walk is mostly descending to sea level, with a few undulations along the way. Pass through manuka scrub, open farmland and a final stretch of beautiful beech forest. A picturesque beach in the sheltered Davies Bay provides an opportune place for a last rest before arriving at Anakiwa, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track. Reflect on the last four amazing days while you wait for your water taxi to whisk you back to Picton, arriving in the late afternoon. Trip arrangements end on arrival at the Picton waterfront.

Meals:  L