Camping - one of the most rewarding ways to appreciate the serenity of Marlbourough

Camping in the Marlborough Sounds is one of the most satisfying ways to get off the grid.

You don’t need much – simply a tent or a campervan – to get away and enjoy some of the most relaxing and appealing scenery to be enjoyed anywhere. Appreciating the serenity of the place and it’s unobtrusive lifestyle is what it is all about. Of course there are things to do here. There are some great hiking trails, some awesome mountain biking tracks, cruises to swim with the local pod of dolphins or appreciate this outstanding scenery from the water. Kayaking, sailing, even visits to local mussel farms. There is heaps to keep even the most motivated amongst us occupied. I will mention all these wonderful activities plus the best places to eat and hang out in a later blog. For now though the focus is on camping.

Marlborough Sounds

discover a different morning awakening

There is limited access to the Marlborough Sounds, roads are narrow, winding and long. Numerous remote campsites are available if you are prepared to venture out. A lot of the Department of Conservation campsites are only accessible by water however there are a number also available by road which makes it a great place to take a campervan.

Elaine Bay is one of the drivable campsites situated by the side of the water. There is a small reserve available for a small number of campers. A port operates close by so you can watch the boats servicing the nearby mussel farms head in and out. The water is also the launch point for many leisure boaties. It’s a peaceful spot and if you arise early enough you will be greeted to a warm sunrise across the water which is particularly atmospheric if there is a cloud or two around.

One of the many views from the campervan at Elaine Bay, Marlborough Sounds…….

Kaikoura and kayaking with the seals

Less than 3 hours scenic drive from Christchurch is the seaside township of Kaikoura. It’s the perfect short break after a hectic working week. Anchor Court Motel has reopened recently following damage suffered after the now famous 2016 earthquake. Directly across from the beach it’s floor to ceiling windows offer stunning views of the ocean complete with sunrise. This was the view from our room - we paid slightly more for a sea view but it was definitely worth the few extra dollars.

Kaikoura is a mecca for marine life and this is the main reason to visit. It also has some great food options which I’ll come to in a later blog. Folks head to Kaikoura to knock off some of those bucket list items which I’ll also get to later - swim with wild dolphins, learn to fly a plane, watch a sperm whale breach, even witness the mighty albatross fly overhead. It’s one of my very favourite places and an early morning start is always a must. Up early for the sunrise Dan and I headed out to meet the chaps from Kaikoura Kayaks, to hire a double sea kayak. They also do a few different guided trips which are well recommended but having done one of these previously we decided to head out on our own. After a very thorough safety briefing which came complete with some valuable information for future use we paddled out of South Harbour. The sea was smooth, the sky clear and the going fairly easy. We soon came across our first New Zealand Fur Seal lozenging around on the rocks. Up ahead more where in the water, rolling around attempting to cool off on this warm summers day. After a frantic paddle through the waves out at sea we reached Whalers Bay, only accessible by boat or foot. We kayaked through the shallow waters spotting fish and seaweed floating around in the clear waters beneath. Lots of seals were hanging out in this bay which is a popular area for the young males. They barked at one another a fair bit but were pretty laid back with us. We received a few odd looks and curious glances but on the whole they were more interested than bothered by our presence. As we approached the rocks some flopped down in the water, swimming closer to take a better look. We hung around on our own for quite a while until a Swim with the Seals boat appeared. Being so close to marine life, no matter how many times you’ve been lucky enough to experience it, is always a pinch me moment. Reluctantly we headed back to shore bidding farewell and wishing luck to our new found friends.