More about Picton
Why go to Picton?
Home of celebrated wineries, spectacular coastlines, dolphin and whale tours
The most interesting attractions lie outside town
A picturesque seaside town offering access to the magnificent Marlborough Sounds
Picton Cruise Port Facilities?
Ships berth in Shakespeare Bay or at Waitohi Wharf, on a narrow peninsula just up from the town of Picton, a short shuttle bus or taxi trip away.
There is an information kiosk at Waitohi Wharf, although it's probably easier to visit the main i-SITE Information Centre on the way into town, on the Foreshore, opposite the train station (Auckland St; 03 520 3133; open daily 8 am to 6 pm in summer and reduced hours in winter). There are no other facilities at the wharf, except a complimentary shuttle bus for the under-five-minute trip into town. This may be preferable to walking, as the port also services local industries and cargo ships.
Good to Know?
It's possible to pre-book a rental car and pick it up within walking distance of the dock and that's handy if you're in Picton for a more than a day.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Most of Picton's tourist attractions are within 10 minutes of the port.
By Train: Trains are generally long-distance passenger trains to and from Christchurch and Greymouth.
By Bike: There are bicycle rental agencies in Picton, which has a selection of popular scenic bike routes such as the Queen Charlotte Track.
By Bus: There is an InterCity bus service from Picton to both Marlborough and Blenheim.
By Taxi: Taxis are plentiful, cheap and metered and Ubers are also an option. Water taxis are also available at London Quay.
By Boat: Take a scenic cruise on boats that leave from the harbour terminal for a great overview of Marlborough Sounds. Picton is also the departure point for inter-island ferries to the North Island.
By Plane: Sounds Air offers 25-minute flights from Wellington to Picton or Picton to Wellington.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), which has 10, 20 and 50 cent coins, and one- and two-dollar gold coins. Banknotes are coloured and in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Take time to look at the beautiful artwork on the notes featuring prominent New Zealanders as well as local birds, flowers and scenes.
Several ATMs can be found in Picton at the Picton Mall (corner High St and London Quay), and outside Westpac, Picton Central NZ Post and Kiwibank at the Mariners Mall (100 High St).
Language?
English is the main language, although the New Zealand accent may take some getting used to. There is a vowel-shift, so that 'ham' becomes 'hem' and 'best' sounds more like 'bist'. Fish and chips, popular in NZ, is pronounced like the 'u' in 'push' -- fush 'n' chups.
