Discover the Serenity of Motuara Island
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich wildlife of Motuara Island in Marlborough, New Zealand - a serene escape for nature lovers.
Motuara Island, nestled in the picturesque Marlborough region of New Zealand, is a tranquil getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Offering stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and peaceful walking trails, this island is a must-visit for tourists seeking an escape into nature's embrace.
A brief summary to Motuara Island
- Marlborough, NZ
Local tips
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails.
- Check the weather before your visit for the best experience.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Getting There
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Ferry
To reach Motuara Island, begin your journey at the Wellington Waterfront. Head to the ferry terminal located at 1 Jetties, Wellington 6011. You can take a public bus or walk along the waterfront to get there. Look for the Bluebridge or Interislander ferry services. However, for Motuara Island, you will specifically need to board a ferry to Picton. Ensure to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary. Once you arrive in Picton, you will need to transfer to a water taxi or charter a boat to reach Motuara Island.
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Water Taxi
After arriving in Picton, head to the Picton Marina, which is a short walk from the ferry terminal. At the marina, you can find various water taxi services that can take you directly to Motuara Island. Make sure to confirm the taxi service’s schedule and availability as they may not operate frequently. The boat ride will provide scenic views of the Marlborough Sounds, and the journey to the island typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
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Plan Ahead
Before embarking on your trip, it is highly recommended to check the weather conditions and the ferry schedules online. Additionally, ensure to pack any necessities for your visit to Motuara Island, such as water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are limited facilities on the island itself.
Discover more about Motuara Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Perano whaling station
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Hugh England Memorial Lookout
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Mrs. Chippy Monument
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Ahumairangi - Wellington Town Belt (Tinakori Hill)
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James Hector Memorial Lookout
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The Soundshell
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Krupp Gun
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Bolton Street Cemetery
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Seddon Memorial
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Goldie's Brae
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Katherine Mansfield House & Garden
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Thorndon Heritage Listed Villa
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Katherine Mansfield Memorial Park
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Kelburn Park
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Kelburn Park Fountain
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Unmissable attractions to see
ShipCove
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Ship Cove Waterfall
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Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui
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Burney's Beach
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Eatwells Lookout
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Mount Stokes
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Dieffenbach Point
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Queen Charlotte Track
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Monkey Bay
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Karaka point beach access walking track
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The Snout
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Queen Charlotte View, only accessed from the Snout track starting at the top of Endeavour park
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Lochmara Lodge
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Bobs Bay Reserve
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Picton Harbour
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Essential places to dine
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The Queen Charlotte Tavern
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UPESH KITCHEN
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Paradise Seafoods Kelburn
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Graze Wine Bar
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Daisy's
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Aubergine
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Yellow Chilli Indian Restaurant
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Caffe Mode
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Hillside Kitchen
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Cable Top Eatery
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Krishna Food Kelburn
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Cafe 93
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Jardin Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Raukura Art Gallery and Giftware
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Mariners Mall
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Botanic Garden Shop
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Vinnies Kelburn
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The Vogue Store
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Space Place Store
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Chapman Taylor Cafe & Inn
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The Hunter Lounge
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Oviedo
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The Backbencher Gastropub
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Juniper Gin Bar & Restaurant
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Leroy's
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Flamingo Joe's Bar & Eatery
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The Arborist Rooftop Bar
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The Green Man Pub
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Little Beer Quarter
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Blend Bar
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