Planning our NZ South Island holiday, we scheduled the Pelorus Eco Tours, because of the promoted…read moreHobbit Kayak Tour- "enjoy kayaking the famous filming location of "Hobbit" movies"-we kayak a fair amount at home, so initially the high price for the short route was a bit meh feeling, but as LOTR fans, we were willing, and excited, for the opportunity to visit some film locations-learning about the area, and local experiences during filming. We did have a good time navigating the shallow rapids, observing the river's ambiance, but overall, we found the tour lacking compared to our expectation & prior experiences. Traveling all across the North & South Island, we blended our itinerary with NZ Culture & LOTR nerdom. This particular tour was meant to be boost LOTR, but the tour guide barely spoke to the filming, and when he did it felt forced, disconnected to a 'tourist' feeling-it was more of an afterthought, for how much it was promoted as a specific LOTR moment. Also, during the tour, while Shane was a fantastic guy to socialize with, he was training a friend on river guiding, so we found ourselves 'backseat' to the training, often waiting on him chatting with staff while we sat in open water mingling amongst ourselves. Overall, a lazy river experience, only entertaining for the few rapids we were able to ride down- we honestly had more fun on the LOTR set, once we knew where it was and went back later to complete our own hike- If going for the LOTR experience, research the waypoint, park at the camp, and take a leisure hike saving time/money. (but do take time to eat in Havelock, because the local dining was delicious)

Wow we had so much fun on the Pelorus river today and the nature there is sumptious! We did a break…read moreto go swimming in the blue and green water...So good on such a hot day! The kayaking tour is perfect for families and people or all ages, the little rapids make it even more funny and shallenging... Thx again Shane for your energy and hapiness!

After driving up from Blenheim, this was a nice spot for a quick rest and a little walk before…read morefinishing the drive. It's a pretty park and a few folks were dog walking this morning. The sign nearby points out the history of the park, "Nelson Square was set aside as a recreation reserve as part of the first survey of Picton - the square was laid out in the configuration of the Union Jack hence the uniform layout of the roads. By 1878, Nelson Square had been handed over from the Provincial Council to the Picton Board of Works (local council). From the beginning the Reserve became established as a sports field, despite repeated requests over the years from members of the public wanting the convenience of crossing pathways. For some time, a fence and locked gate excluded all but cricket club members. In the 1950s all fences were removed, the field leveled, corners rounded to their present shape and the field opened with access to all." There is parking on the street around the park. A few camper vans seemed to be using it overnight, not sure if that's allowed. [Review 440 of 2024 - 93 in New Zealand - 21473 overall]

For a simple square, there is much history here. The park dates to 1957 when The Square was named…read morein honor of half of the land partnership of Henry Seymour and Alfred Fell that held title to the land upon which The Beaver (the original settled name of Blenheim) was built. The land was used by local farmers for stock grazing. Between 1865 and 1875, the Garibaldi Cricket Club formed a rough cricket patch here and eventually, football made its debut when Blenheim beat Waithol, 2 goals to 1. In 1920, the oak tree was planted in the northwestern corner by the Price of Wales (later Edward VIII) and in 1928, the WWI Memorial Clock was unveiled. In 1945, cherry trees were planted along the eastern perimeter to commemorate the end of the war with Japan. Today, the site is used for the Marlborough District's commemorative services. It is also the central place of celebration in the life of the town, such as the focus for festivals, markets and parades. It's a lovely walk on a sunny day and today was definitely a sunny day. Picnic or just wander. It's fab. [Review 428 of 2024 - 81 in New Zealand - 21461 overall]

A very easy two to three hour walk across mostly level ground from the parking lot through the salt…read moremarsh to the wreck of the SS Waverly. The sign does not indicate whether dogs are permitted or not. Expect to see lots and lots of birds. There is a picnic table at the ship. Wear appropriate shoes as some of the salt marsh is wet. Much of the marsh is featureless. I have seen wonderful pictures. I was only up for walking a half hour out and a half hour back but others, including a dude on an e-bike, were prepared for the full go. [Review 422 of 2024 - 75 in New Zealand - 21455 overall]

Brilliant This eco…read moreaquarium complete with little blue penguins was brilliant! Because we were waiting for the ferry the cost was half price $25 for 4 people. Small, affordable and fun with little penguins close up, fish, seastars, turtles etc, and a petting pool (although not a good idea as it encourages people to touch these creatures in the wild) A great place to go while waiting for the ferry, staff friendly and helpful.

Mini Golkf is very different to Crazy Golf. Mini golf has shaped courses, with less colourful…read moreobstacles and more just plain tricky challenges. Kiwi Mini Golf, based near the Ferry Terminal in Picton, is one of the former, rather than the latter, and is the first place where the SR actually lost his temper with a course. Super slidy, golf balls literally flew no matter how gently you tapped them. Fun, but frustrating all at one and much trickier than given credit - and of course, I won!

Decent accommodations for good pricing. Also good kitchen facilities. Only downside is $1 for a…read moreshower, but that's not too much considering the deal you'll get for staying there. Also very well located for the wineries, should you be there to explore those.