Picnicking in the Sounds

Almost all coves and grassy headlands are picnic-perfect in the Sounds. A spectacular spot is Governors Bay on Queen Charlotte Drive, just out of Picton. Its clear blue waters, deep- green backdrop and sandy margin look gorgeous from the road above, and there is a track leading down to the beach. It’s easily reached by kayak. Make a day of it and take Cougar Line’s picnic cruise to Ship Cove (above), which is accessible only by boat. The bush reserve behind the beach is well-maintained, and there’s a bridge over the stream where Captain Cook replenished his water supplies on his three voyages into the Sounds. The white memorial on the shore tells the Pākehā story of discovery, and the carved pouwhenua depicts the Māori legend of Kupe and the octopus. GETTING THERE: Cougar Line’s picnic cruise leaves Picton at 8am and 10am and returns at 4.30pm. The exact times depend on the month.