Ace Rental Cars Blog

Welcome to the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. The coastal city of Picton lies nestled snugly alongside the Marlborough Sounds, making it a popular destination among tourists driving up from the south and those coming down by ferry from the North Island. You don’t need to spend a fortune to make the most of your Picton visit either. There are many excellent activities you can do for cheap, or completely free.

We list some of the best value for money attractions you should check out. 

Free

Hiking the Queen Charlotte track

With so many beautiful natural landscapes at its doorstep, hiking is the most popular free activity you can do in Picton. The Queen Charlotte track is an epic trek that takes you through the lush forests of the Marlborough Sounds and treats you to gorgeous views of the turquoise waters from in between the sloping hills and mountains. The hike takes multiple days, so either plan for a shorter day trip, or research the many accommodation options along the way to use as basecamps.

Under $50 pp 

Self-guided sea kayaking tour through Marlborough Sounds

For an up close and personal look at the stunning drowned valleys of the Marlborough Sounds, we highly recommend hiring a sea kayak for half a day or more to explore natural wonder.  You can pay $40 per person for a maximum of four hours hire time; otherwise, it’s $60 per person for the full day.

Marlborough Sound makes up 1,500km of New Zealand’s expansive coastline, meaning there’s no shortage of secluded routes you can take through the twisting maze of inlets, peninsulas and islands. All you need is your trusty kayak and some upper body strength and you’re all set.

Under $100 pp

Guided biking wine tour

Get on ye’ bike and pedal through some of Marlborough’s renowned wine regions. These guided tours start from approximately $90 per person and include hotel pickup along with a tour through the area’s peaceful vineyards. You’ll be treated to stunning scenery as your knowledgeable tour guide provides interesting insights into the special cool climate of the region that helps nurture its wines.

Don’t worry, it’s not all exercise, you’ll get to reward yourself with a nice tall glass of vino at a selection of three different wineries throughout the tour. At each location, you’ll get to speak to the winemakers and learn all about their products and what goes into making them. Make sure to try a glass of their signature brands, but don’t drink-pedal! You still have to ride back to the pickup location, remember.

Get around Picton in comfort with Ace Rental Cars, New Zealand’s first choice in car rental provider.    

Ace Rental Cars Picton Location

Get directions to our Ace location and start your trip
Freephone: 0800 502 277 Phone: +64 3 573 8939 Email: picton@acerentals.co.nz
Office Hours: Open 7 days a week, 7am to 6pm (closed Christmas Day)