45-minute loop track
Punga Loop
Walk the 45-minute Punga Loop which includes part of the Queen Charlotte Track. Talk to reception about where to go.
4-5 hours return
Mt Stokes
Climb Mt Stokes – the track to the highest peak in the Marlborough Sounds starts 5km from Punga Cove, and the walk takes 4-5 hours return.
Some fitness and experience required.
Instagram @tom_hackett
Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track, in the Marlborough Sounds at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, is a stunning, well-formed trail with sweeping sea views and lush native forest.
Furneaux Lodge is located on the northern Queen Charlotte Track and is a popular first night’s stay for walkers and bikers.
At 73km, the track can be walked in 3-4 days or biked in 2-3 days and is New Zealand’s longest dual-purpose walking and mountain biking track. The northern end, with an undulating to easy grade and surrounded by lush native bush, is perfect for one day or overnight trips with return water transfers from Picton.
The Queen Charlotte Track begins at Ship Cove/Meretoto in the north and ends at Anakiwa in the south. Although the track can be started from either end, most people choose to walk or bike from north to south.
A Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative ticket is required for the section of track between Kenepuru Saddle and Anakiwa (south of Punga Cove). A ticket is not required for the section of track from Ship Cove/Meretoto to Furneaux Lodge and to Punga Cove.
3-4 hours one way
Walk to Furneaux Lodge
Walk or bike the Queen Charlotte Track to Furneaux Lodge for lunch or a drink, and catch the scheduled Cougar Line water taxi back to Punga Cove. Bike hire is available by advance booking.
4 hours return
View map
Walk to Eatwell's Lookout
Walk or mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track to Eatwell’s Lookout. Bike hire is available by advance booking.
A track pass is required for this section of the Queen Charlotte Track - this can be purchased from our Reception.
FAQs
-
How long is the walk from Punga Cove to Furneaux Lodge?
The flat, easy approximately 12km coastal walk takes around 4 hours. For more information on walking and biking times, and luggage transfer services, see the Queen Charlotte Track website.
-
How long is the walk from Punga Cove to Torea Bay/Portage?
The 23.5km walk takes around 8 hours. For more information on terrain, walking and biking times, and luggage transfer services, see the Queen Charlotte Track website.
-
What food is available at Punga Cove?
The Punga Fern Restaurant is open daily for breakfast (7.30am-9.30am daily) and à la carte dinner (6pm-9.30pm), September to April . The à la carte dinner menu changes depending on the season, offering a range of fresh local dishes that cater for most dietary preferences and restrictions.
We also offer packed lunches for those heading out to explore for the day. See the Eat & Drink page for more information.
-
Can I eat at Punga Fern Restaurant for lunch or dinner if I’m not an overnight guest?
Definitely – The Punga Fern Restaurant is open to the public for dinner and lunch - bookings are strongly recommended for dinner.
To make getting here and back from Picton easy, book Cougar Line’s Cruise & Lunch.
-
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’s the weather like?
The Marlborough Sounds has a temperate, generally mild climate. However, our weather can change very suddenly and we always advise guests to bring appropriate clothing including a raincoat, warm layers and sun hat, especially if you are walking the Queen Charlotte Track.
-
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome at Punga Cove, provided they are kept on a lead at all times and remain outdoors during your time here, including overnight. Dog owners are responsible for picking up and disposing of any droppings.
-
Can I transfer from Punga Cove to Furneaux Lodge by boat?
Talk to us at reception about whether our lodge boat is available.
-
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.