Day 1 – Ship Cove to Endeavour Inlet

(Approx. 5 hours/14km)

Journey this morning from the charming seaside port of Picton to Ship Cove in the outer Queen Charlotte Sound where your walk begins. This trip takes around one hour and water taxis depart from 8am onwards at the Picton waterfront.

Ship Cove, now a scenic & historic reserve, was a favourite anchorage for Captain Cook during his explorations in the 1770s. Take time to explore the waterfall walk (30 mins return) and the Captain Cook memorial then set off on the track proper.

The track today passes over two saddles – the first climb to the Ship Cove Platform is around 230m and affords magnificent views towards the west coast of the North Island, including Kapiti Island. To the other side is Resolution Bay and in the far distance, the snowy peaks of the Seaward Kaikoura mountains. From Resolution Bay, the track winds gradually upwards and towards the second and final saddle for Day 1 above Tawa Bay (around 230m).

Experience virgin beech forest at its best during the first and last section of the walk today plus stunning views of the Queen Charlotte Sound throughout the day. Most walkers choose to spend tonight at accommodation located in Endeavour Inlet. Options are available from camping to backpackers, lodges and upmarket resort accommodation. Pre-booking is essential.

Toilet Stops: Ship Cove, Resolution Bay, Tawa Bay Saddle and The Pines
Water Stops: Resolution Bay (fire hose located on jetty)