Picton , New Zealand

Discover Picton: Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(8 reviews)

1h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour.

Enjoy a cultural self-guided audio tour of the serene seaside area of Picton. This tour will take you on a historical journey where you will learn about Picton’s Māori past and see sights such as the ancient Whaling Harpoon and postcard perfect Picton foreshore.

Available options

Discover Picton: Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Audio files and GPS map

Self-Paced

Detailed itinerary

Based on the antiquated design of the frigates being constructed in Londo

n at the time, Edwin Fox

was built by William Foster in Sulkeali, India in 1853.

An overall length of 157 feet, it took only 9

months to build the vessel, and was sold before her completion in that year to Englishman Sir

George Edmund Hodgkinson, who name

d her Edwin Fox after a well
-

known Quaker from

Southampton.

This type

of harpoon gun is one which would have been securely mounted on the bow of whaling

boats. Until the early 20th century, whalers would hunt their prey using lances and handheld

harpoon guns, meaning that their job would bring them remarkably close to the an

imals in order to

attack.

During the 1920s, mounted harpoon guns and explosive tips were introduced to make the

hunt and the kill far easier.

Mo

st townships in New Zealand have a dedicated area of remembrance, and Picton is no

different.

The War Memorial Arch was constructed as part of the renovation of the foreshore and in

honour of the men of the Queen Charlotte Sound who had been killed in ser

vice during World War I

between 1914 and 1918. Showing loyalty to the British Crown, men from all over the country were

sent overseas to ally to the British Forces.

What's not included

Admission Fees

Transportation

Food/drinks

Audio device

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Tour downloading instructions are in the "Before You Go" section of your ticket.

No admission fees or physical guide included.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Please download the audio file and make it ready before you start your journey

Available only in English.

Meeting point

Since this tour is self-guided audio tour, you decide your own starting point and ending point according to your own schedule.

Important notes

Please note this is an audio tour, there is no physical guide. There is no set meeting point or time. Once downloaded, you can listen to it whenever you want.

For the best experience, please use our Phone App

Please copy the below link in your mobile browser to download the tour in our app:
https://116e.short.gy/2gtbyt

Note. If you do not have the phone application installed already you will need to download it from the App Store first then select the link above to download the audio tour in the app.

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.audiotours.citywalksz

Apple Store:https://apps.apple.com/au/app/citywalks-world/id847106919

Alternatively, download the audio file using below link and play on any device

http://link.citywalksworld.com/bXHWWA

About Picton

Picton is a charming coastal town in New Zealand's South Island, known as the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. It offers a unique blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a network of ancient sunken river valleys and coastal bays, offering stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to multiple days Free to Moderate

Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum houses the world's second-oldest surviving merchant sailing ship, offering a glimpse into Picton's maritime history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering breathtaking views, coastal scenery, and diverse wildlife.

Adventure 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green-lipped Mussels

A New Zealand delicacy, these large, sweet mussels are often steamed or grilled and served with garlic and herbs.

Dinner Seafood, gluten-free options available

Sourdough Bread

Picton is known for its artisanal sourdough bread, made with local ingredients and traditional methods.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian, gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Kayaking Hiking Whale watching Wine tasting Beach walks Café hopping Visiting museums Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. However, it's also the busiest time with more tourists.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Picton is generally a safe destination, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of wildlife when hiking

Getting there

By air

Blenheim Airport • 30 km
Wellington Airport • 80 km

By bus

Picton Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Picton has a small local bus service that connects the town to nearby attractions and ferry terminals.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Picton Town Center Waikawa Bay

Day trips

Blenheim and the Marlborough Wine Region

30 km • Full day

Blenheim is the heart of the Marlborough wine region, offering world-class wineries, historic sites, and scenic landscapes.

Kaikoura

120 km • Full day

Kaikoura is known for its whale watching, dolphin encounters, and stunning coastal scenery.

Festivals

Marlborough Wine and Food Festival • February Picton Cruising Club Regatta • January

Pro tips

Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons
Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the Marlborough Sounds and surrounding areas
Pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable
Try local seafood and Marlborough wines
Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum for a glimpse into Picton's rich history