To all you travellers out there on a limited time looking for a ‘taster’ of the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sounds, how about a scenic 2-hour walk from Ships Cove to Resolution Bay?
If you’re based in Blenheim, a mere 25min drive will get you to the Picton Wharf where a water taxi leaves at 8am and 10am. We’re currently based in an apartment within walking distance to Picton Wharf, but Michael still drags me out of bed at 6.00am. Planning and strategy is everything to that man so hold on to your hat folks!
We’re using the Cougar Line taxi company and Russell, the Skipper tells us to look at for penguins, dolphins and fur seals. We get to see all three! First stop is at the Salmon Farm which is heavily netted against greedy seals. Look at this sneaky sod.
Next, we stop next at the Bay of Many Coves Resort which is nestled in a five-star location – a tranquil piece of paradise. The Chalets are stylish with natural materials used in the build and with 3 restaurants, including 1 for the day visitors, everyone is kept happy.
We spend an hour meeting the staff then we board a much larger Cougar Line water taxi for Ships Cove and I’m loving the scenic ride. After a half hour, we disembark at Ships Cove to begin our walk to Resolution Bay.
First a look at the historical site which is also very sacred to the Maori people. There’s also a large display case with a written history of the area.
And now we’re off with our essential Daypack of supplies. For this walk you’ll need to be reasonably fit as there’s quite a bit of uphill walking. It is thirsty work so remember the essentials – snacks, sunblock and water. As always, it’s rather special to have most of the track to ourselves.
We’ve come across a couple of exhausted Brits coming back the other way. Eyes shining with hope, they ask if there’s much further to go. We tell the truth but kindly leave out the small detail regarding the last steep climb. One dear soul excitedly tells us about the many Kiwi birds she’s met on the way. Sorry dear, those are Wekas. We continue on, then stop for lunch. What do think of the view so far?
Hmm..I think that 6am start is taking it’s toll on a certain someone..
The forest is alive with birdsong from tuis and bellbirds and the sound of Kereru (Native Wood Pigeons) winging their way through the bush is thrilling – they’re the plumpest I’ve ever seen! Life must be good for these guys.
After we reach the wharf at Resolution Bay, there’s just enough time to do a few stretches before we’re picked up by our water taxi…
…and it’s a fun ride back – the boat’s full of happy travellers!
