4 Day Paddle & Walk

Join the 4 & 5 day guided walkers departing each Monday and enjoy two days of walking on Queen Charlotte Track,  Day 3, depart on a water taxi in the morning from Punga Cove to Portage Resort Hotel and meet your guide for a days sea kayaking in the Kenepuru Sound.  Day four, you paddle from Torea Bay (on the Queen Charlotte Sound) back to Picton over the day.  Both days' sea kayaking are relatively easy and suitable for the novice paddler.  Return to our base in time to enjoy the post-trip celebrations with the rest of your group.

Further Information

Upon booking our confirmation email includes detailed pre-trip information.

However, if you would like to know what we recommend you wear or bring on the walk, read on:

• Strong (broken-in) walking shoes, preferably walking boots


• Camera


• Sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses


• Insect repellent


• Cotton shirts and shorts


• Good rainproof jacket (not just showerproof


• Warm wool or fleece jersey/sweater


• Money for possible purchases


• Bathing gear


• Nightwear


• Toiletries


• Handkerchiefs – not tissues


• Casual change of clothes for the evening

If walking in early spring or late autumn we recommend you also include the following:

• Woollen socks, hat and gloves


• Warm wool or fleece pants


• Warm wool or polypropylene shirts

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the trip leave Picton on the first day, and return to Picton on the last day?
The walk departs on the first day at 8.00am from our office. Therefore we recommend that you stay in Picton the night prior to departure.   We are happy to collect you from your accommodation on the morning of departure and this usually occurs between 7.00am and 7.30am, by prior arrangement. On the last day you return to our office at around 4.30pm.  There is plenty of time to catch the 6.00pm ferry to Wellington if required, or a flight out of Blenheim (25 minute shuttle ride from Picton).



Is water available on the track while walking?

Drinking water is available at strategic places on the track. Please note however that this water is not regularly tested. We recommend that you walk with your own bottle that holds approximately 1 litre or more which can be topped up each evening at your accommodation.

When is the best time to walk?

The warmest months are December, January and February (summer), and the coldest are June, July and August (winter). In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC, and in winter between 10-15ºC.You can check on weather conditions in New Zealand on the New Zealand Met Service website: www.metservice.com

What is the difference between the guided and freedom walks?

The guided walks have some added extras that are not included in the standard freedom walk package, such as:

• a knowledgeable guide, who can ensure you see all the highlights


• a customised eco-tour experience


• all meals are included


• upgraded accommodation


• post-trip functions

We believe that these added extras provide another dimension to this walking holiday.

We recognise that some people prefer a complete walking holiday, sharing their experience with a group of like-minded people from all over the world and therefore the guided option is the best one. We also appreciate that some people prefer to be independent and walk on their own, or with their group of friends only, therefore we also offer a “freedom” option.

How fit do you have to be to walk the track?

The track is regarded as a “long” track not a “steep” track. Therefore distances each day, particularly on the third and fourth day are long, but if you are moderately fit you should be able to achieve this walk. We do recommend that to enjoy the trip you are of at least average fitness. Fitness levels vary amongst every individual, therefore we suggest that – as a guideline – if you are walking for at least an hour (maybe two) more than four times a week, you should be able to thoroughly enjoy this trip.

Do we have to carry a big pack?

No. It doesn’t matter if you are freedom or guided walking, you only ever have to carry a light day pack because your luggage is transferred each day by water taxi.

Are there Department of Conservation huts to stay in?

No. There are no Department of Conservation (DOC) huts on the Queen Charlotte Track. However, there are resorts, homestays and DOC campsites that you can stay at.