Queen Charlotte Track

- a spectacular coastal walk among lush native bush

welcoming. It was a rewarding end to a long day.

From here, there was an option to walk through to Torea Bay on the Queen Charlotte and catch a boat ride to Anakiwa.

On day four we left early for Anakiwa. The track climbed steadily over Torea Saddle, so we were glad to be tackling the hill before it was too hot. This section had lots of beech trees smothered in black honey dew. Luckily there were no wasps.

We soon passed the turn-offs to Mistletoe and Lochmara Bays, both accessible by boat.

At Lochmara there is a Wildlife Recovery and Arts Centre, with nature trails, glow worm walks and native parakeet breeding programmes. Many people take day trips to this area.

There was not so much open walking today, but we did get glimpses of Picton through the beech trees, and watched the Inter Islander cruise by.

Lots of cyclists were enjoying this section of the track but Ships Cove to Kenepuru Saddle is closed to mountain bikes in summer.

We walked high above Onahau Bay, then followed near the shore of Grove Arm to Anakiwa.

Our first stop was the jetty. Jumping off into the clear water was heaven – but Above right: Sunset at Furneaux Lodge. Opposite page above: Onahau Bay, off Queen Charl;otte Sound. Below: Looking from Kenepuru Saddle into Endeavoiur Inlet. looking back as I climbed up, I spotted an enormous stingray. I was relieved to be halfway up the ladder.

Although there was the option of getting the shuttle boat back to Picton at 4.00pm we chose to prolong the adventure, and stay the night at Anakiwa – another comfortable Lodge.

The last night was spent celebrating with a young American couple who were proud to have completed their first multi-day trek.

The following morning our host drove us all back to Picton via Queen Charlotte Drive – an adventure in itself.

This walk was an experience that’s hard to beat. The track was well maintained, accommodation comfortable, food delicious, all round service exceptional, and to cap it all, the scenery was simply stunning. Go book it now. Go to www.qctrack.co.nz