The Family Travel Guide to Picton

© E-Ko New Zealand Ltd

Family Adventure Activities

Picton is all about escaping to nature and learning about New Zealand’s incredible wildlife, especially if Picton’s family-friendly activities have anything to say about it!

If your family is keen to get out on the water to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Marlborough Sounds, as well as see some cool wildlife, jump on a cruise with Beachcomber Cruises or E-Ko Tours. Both offer cruises looking out for dolphins on the way to Motuara Island, a native bird sanctuary that’s free from predators.

The walk on the island has a watering hole where birds can be seen taking a bath, while the walk ends with a scenic lookout. The walk is a steep 800 m (875 yard) climb to the top, so if you don’t think the little ones will make it, you can always stay by the watering hole and watch the birds.

If you have older kids who love to be active, be sure to head on one of Picton’s exciting bike trails. One option is the Link Pathway, which is a 42 km (26 mi) trail between Picton and Havelock but can be easily enjoyed for as long or as little as your family wants with amazing views to be had along the way.

Alternatively, do something less strenuous like the trails of the Victoria Domain Mountain Bike Park or ride part of the Queen Charlotte Track between Anakiwa to Mistletoe Bay.

Hire kids’ mountain bikes from Wilderness Guides and learn more in our guide to Mountain Biking in Marlborough.

For more ideas, like kayaking on the Pelorus River, check out the 10 Things to Do in Picton with Kids.

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All-weather Family Activities

It’s not often that the weather doesn’t play ball, but this is still New Zealand, so be prepared for a rainy day with some of these family-friendly all-weather attractions.

Visit the neighbouring city of Blenheim in a transport that kids love, a steam train! The Marlborough Flyer takes you back to a bygone era in their 1915 locomotive which departs from the Picton Railway Station.

Enjoy a one-hour scenic journey through wetlands, across the Wairau River, through a valley of vineyards all the way to Blenheim where you’ll have time to explore the town before the return journey.

And you can always rely on a museum on a rainy day in New Zealand. While Picton has a couple of great options, like the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and the Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum, we recommend a short road trip to Blenheim to visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. The museum showcases World War One and Two aircraft displayed in vivid scenes created by the famous Weta Workshop.

For more rainy day ideas, check out the 10 Things to Do in Picton on a Rainy Day.

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Free Family Activities

Picton has a few fun free things to do that will help you manage your family travel budget, most of which are walks.

Walk over the marina bridge to find a network of walking trails, like the Habour View Track where you can get a stunning family photo with the Picton Harbour.

Push on and you’ll also walk to Bob’s Bay or even as far as the Snout Track. Some of the best views can be found on the Tirohanga Track if your kids can manage a 45-minute climb through the bush to the lookout.

Check out more walks, their descriptions and locations in the 10 Awesome Hikes in Picton.

For more ideas, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Picton.

© Edit Picton

Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Accommodations in Picton

Take your pick from holiday parks with playgrounds and other family-friendly facilities, self-catering motels, hotel rooms and spacious apartments.

Although we outline all your options in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Picton, here are some of our top picks for families.

Edit Picton – Modern Family-Friendly Hotel Overlooking Picton Marina

For the familiarity and fun of a hotel, set your sights on the four-star Edit Picton. The hotel overlooking the Picton Marina offers contemporary and relaxed family rooms.

The “Budget Family Room” with a double bed and two single beds is your value option, while the “Superior Twin Room” has a private balcony and a little more space.

Do one step further by indulging in either the “Penthouse Apartment” with three separate bedrooms and a full kitchen.

Wherever you decide to unwind after a day of exploring Picton and the Marlborough Sounds, you’ll still have access to the hotel’s large outdoor pool and relaxed dining at The Chartroom Restaurant.

Discover why Edit Picton is a popular choice for families exploring the Marlborough Sounds, and book your stay through Booking.com!

Harbour View Motel – Comfortable Family Accommodation on Picton’s Waterfront

Forget drab motel rooms. Harbour View Motel is your modern family accommodation in Picton, boasting superbly-appointed rooms, many of which come with a balcony.

Situated on the harbourfront, the motel has an ultra-convenient location close to eateries, the ferry terminal and where many of the Marlborough Sounds activities depart.

As for your accommodation, families will find the cheapest stay in the “Seaview Twin Studio” with two queen beds, while more space can be found in the two-bedroom apartment sleeping up to six people. Both options have kitchen facilities, free WiFi and Sky TV.

Learn more about what makes Harbour View Motel ideal for families visiting Picton, and secure your stay through Booking.com or Expedia!