Fern Studios

FAQs

• What time can I check in?

  Check-in at reception is available from 3pm.

• What time is check-out?

  Check-out is available until 10am. If you want to check out later, please ask about availability on your arrival.

• How do I get to Punga Cove?

  The fastest way to get to us is by water taxi from Picton. We strongly recommend our sister company,  is Cougar Line. If you are arriving by private boat, we have moorings available (free for overnight, lunch or dinner guests, $25 per night for other visitors).

  You can also walk or mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track straight into the heart of the resort. Or, arrive by helicopter from a variety of locations (including Wellington, Nelson, Kaikōura and Christchurch) and be taken straight to the landing pad at the top of the resort.

  Punga Cove also has road access; the scenic drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours  from Linkwater. Note that Kenepuru Road is narrow and windy, and the last section of your drive will be on unsealed road. We recommend parking at the top of the driveway into Punga Cove, which is steep and can be slippery.

• What is there to do at the lodge?

  Our location in Endeavour Inlet is the perfect place to explore our stunning natural surroundings. Lodge guests have the use of kayaks and paddle boards (SUPs).

  Explore the Queen Charlotte Track, which passes through the resort, or simply relax on the beach, in the two hot tubs, the swimming pool, our hilltop restaurant or at the cafè & bar on the jetty.

  For more things to do, including local tours, see our activities page.

• Can I get cellphone reception and wifi at Punga Cove?

  Wifi is available at the Boatshed Cafè & Bar but, due to our isolated location in the outer Marlborough Sounds, the connection can be limited and at times unreliable.

  There is no cellphone reception at Punga Cove.

  While we are working hard to improve our wifi signal, we advise our guests to take the opportunity to switch off, relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounds. We have a landline and email at reception if anyone needs to get hold of you.

• What if I have to cancel or postpone my booking?

  There is no charge for cancellations 8 or more days before your intended stay. See our terms and conditions for more information, including Covid-19 related travel bans.

• Can I bring my own food and beverages?

  You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages, however most rooms have just a mini fridge along with coffee and tea facilities. The Mamaku Apartments also have a microwave, and the Basecamp rooms share a kitchenette. We do recommend eating at our Boatshed Cafe & Bar and the Punga Fern Restaurant.

• Are the rooms secure?

  All rooms are locked and guests are provided with keys.

• Are your rooms wheelchair accessible?

  Unfortunately Punga Cove’s hillside location, which includes steep terrain, means access to rooms is difficult for wheelchairs and not recommended. Try our sister lodge, Furneaux Lodge, across the bay which has flat access to suites.