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Marlborough is the largest grape growing and wine manufacturing region in New Zealand largest grape growing region. Marlborough Sounds is situated in the region of Marlborough in the north-east corner of South Island of New Zealand. The Marlborough Sounds is made up of three drowned river valleys, project out into the Pacific Ocean like the fingers of a welcoming hand. The valleys which were formed when the mountains sank and the sea flooded the valleys owing to tectonic movements in the past millennia, is geologically termed as 'drowned valleys' or sounds. There is an interesting Maori legend which tells a peculiar story of the creation of these sounds. Legend has it that Kupe while wrestling with a giant octopus, grasped the South Island for support and immediately his fingers went deep inside the soil and carved out the waterways. The three sounds which make up the Marlborough Sounds are the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds. This peculiar geographical formation is one of the wonders of nature and inspires awe with its beauty. This mesh of fjiord-like waterways are enclosed by steep hills and covered by forests of native trees.
Thus bounded by Sylvan woods, the Marlborough Sounds is truly a natural site that is worth visiting! You can cruise or kayak through the waters and discover the natural surroundings and wildlife of the Marlborough Sounds. The forested craggy region is thinly populated as access is not so convenient. The small hamlets within the area or the distant houses can only be reached by boats. This region can be explored from Havelock or Picton which is the major port on the mainland, located at the Queen Charlotte Sound. Marlborough Sounds' main channels have calm water and facilitate sailing. However Cook Strait has strong currents and is not very safe, especially French Pass lying at the southern end of D'Urville Island has several vortices.
There are fine eateries and accommodation options in the Marlborough Sounds where you can stay comfortably.
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