Picton to Nelson

---

Picton to Nelson

Driving times:
Picton to Nelson (direct) 144k- 2hours


Leaving Picton for Nelson there are two routes to take. If the weather is good the most
scenic route is the Queen Charlotte Drive that twists and winds its way through the
Marlborough Sounds. One of the most picturesque drives in the country. Side trips from
the Drive to go deeper into the Sounds are at Anakiwa. This is where the beginning of the
Queen Charlotte Track is. Another long drive through the Sounds is the turn at Linkwater
to Kenepuru Head. One of the most well known lodges is out this route, the Portage.
Continuing on Queen Charlotte Drive the road finishes 36kms from Picton on Highway
Six. Turn right and you are in the small hamlet of Havelock.

Havelock is cne of those special small communities that have really done a great job providing
many reasons to stop and enjoy some time in the place. On the main street you will find
several cafes, a real good pub, a couple of excellent galleries.

Turning to the right down to the Marina it is quite evident the main events here are
centered around the sea with this being the Mussel Capital of New Zealand. You must
have a feed of mussels when in New Zealand and here is the best place fresh off the
boats. For a good coffee, and food try the Slip Inn right on the harbour waterfront and
plenty of room for parking. Great camp ground here also in the centre of town and on the
harbour. The freshest fish to be found, if you are lucky, when passing through here there
is fresh fish being sold by a local next to the Four Square market. This is a don't miss.

Explore the Sounds with scenic cruises and boat charters in Havelock.The Mussel
Festival had its initial beginning in 2005 and looks to be a winner. If you want to try
mussels this is a good one to get too as there will be many ways the stalls will serve them.
Great entertainment too. March each year.

From here to Nelson you go by the Pelorous River the most beautiful rivers in New
Zealand worth a stop to enjoy at Pelorus Bridge. Past the river and through the small
village of Rai Valley on the right once again you can explore the Marlborough Sounds for
many kilometres as far out to Elaine Bay. Good campin both at Okiwi bay and Elaine
Bay.

From Rai Valley the road winds throught the Mt. Richmond Forest Park finally after 48
kilometres in the city of Nelson. This stretch is all up and down driving through the Forest
until just before entering the Nelson area. Be careful.

---