Explore Marlborough’s parks and tracks this summer
Now’s a great time to go somewhere new.
“We are encouraging locals to take a trip in a visitor’s footsteps this summer,” Parks and Open Spaces officer Kiri Whiteman said. “With the Wither Hills Farm Park in Blenheim currently closed due to the fire risk, it’s a great opportunity to check out the many walking tracks, parks and reserves that our region offers,” she said. This week we showcase some popular trails near Picton and Havelock.
Tirohanga Track
Tirohanga Track in Picton, accessed from either Newgate Street or Garden Terrace, is a short but steep trail leading to a hilltop lookout that offers a fantastic vantage point over Picton and the Marlborough Sounds. From the Newgate Street entrance, it is around 45 minutes to the summit through regenerating native forest. There are other tracks up Essons Valley from Garden Terrace including to the Humphries dam – a great option on a hot day as these trails are bush clad.
Victoria Domain
Overlooking Picton Harbour and Queen Charlotte Sound, the forested expanse of Victoria Domain offers the opportunity for walking and biking with stunning scenic views with access points from Surrey Street, Sussex Street, Waikawa Road, Leicester Street, Shelly Beach, Picton Marina, Snout Track, Bobs Bay, and Endeavour Park. A drive along the Ridge Road caters for the less energetic while an extensive walking track and mountain bike network will readily satisfy more adventurous souls.
Te Ara Tuhono Link Pathway
The 42km Te Ara Tuhono Link Pathway can be walked or biked between Havelock and Picton with multiple entry and exit points depending on how long you have. There are new public car parks at the Grove near Anakiwa, and Wedge Point and Shakespeare Bay near Picton making access easier for short trips. This free-to-use pathway created as a community project is a great track for all the family.
Waterfall Track
Accessed from Lawrence Street, off SH6 in Havelock, the Waterfall Track takes walkers up a gully alongside the stream which once provided the town’s water supply. Enjoy native bush and a waterfall view on this loop track which takes around 45 minutes. This trail connects to other more difficult tracks providing access to the summit of Takorika (721m) from where there are views of Havelock and Pelorus Sound.
Go to more information on the Council's walking and cycling smart map