The Marlborough Sounds is an extensive network of sea-drowned valleys located in the north-eastern corner of the South Island of New Zealand. It spans over 1,500km2 of land, making it the largest and most complex estuarine system in the country.
The Marlborough Sounds is made up of four main bodies of water: Queen Charlotte Sound, Pelorus Sound, Kenepuru Sound and Mahau Sound. The Sounds are bounded by steep, forested hills and are home to a diverse range of marine life, including penguins, seals, dolphins and whales.
The Marlborough Sounds has a long and rich history. It was first settled by the Māori people in the 13th century and was later explored by Captain James Cook in 1770. Since then, the area has become an important commercial and recreational hub, with many people visiting the area for its stunning scenery, abundant marine life and variety of activities.
The Marlborough Sounds is also an important environmental asset, with the area being home to a number of rare and endangered species. The area is also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, sailing and swimming.
The Marlborough Sounds is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular and unique places, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature and the country’s rich history and culture.
Experience Marlborough Sounds with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Marlborough Sounds. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.
Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand has a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. In the summer (December to February) temperatures range from 18-25°C, with warm days and cool nights. Autumn (March to May) is mild with temperatures ranging from 12-20°C. Winter (June to August) is cool with temperatures ranging from 8-14°C and occasional frosts. Spring (September to November) is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. Overall, Marlborough Sounds has a pleasant climate with mild temperatures throughout the year.
Our weather forecast for Marlborough Sounds helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.
| Date | Icon | Temperature | Wind speed/gusts | Cloudiness/Visibility | Air humidity/pressure | Sunrise/Sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 7th 2026 Oct. 7th 2026 | max: 14.0 °C min: 12 °C |
40.7 m/s 59.4 m/s |
58.5 % 17.6 m |
79.4 % 1,020 hPa |
06:48:38 19:35:27 |
|
| Oct. 8th 2026 Oct. 8th 2026 | max: 13.9 °C min: 11.4 °C |
38.7 m/s 56.8 m/s |
55.0 % 24.1 m |
78.7 % 1,025 hPa |
06:47:00 19:36:31 |
|
| Oct. 9th 2026 Oct. 9th 2026 | max: 15.1 °C min: 11.5 °C |
34.0 m/s 48.3 m/s |
49.5 % 24.1 m |
80.9 % 1,027 hPa |
06:45:22 19:37:35 |
|
| Oct. 10th 2026 Oct. 10th 2026 | max: 14.9 °C min: 12.1 °C |
15.1 m/s 23.9 m/s |
63.5 % 23.6 m |
85.0 % 1,026 hPa |
06:43:45 19:38:40 |
|
| Oct. 11th 2026 Oct. 11th 2026 | max: 14.0 °C min: 13.1 °C |
31.2 m/s 55.6 m/s |
82.1 % 14.2 m |
90.9 % 1,022 hPa |
06:42:08 19:39:45 |
|
| Oct. 12th 2026 Oct. 12th 2026 | max: 15.4 °C min: 13.4 °C |
17.9 m/s 27.7 m/s |
67.7 % 23.4 m |
90.5 % 1,021 hPa |
06:40:31 19:40:50 |
|
| Oct. 13th 2026 Oct. 13th 2026 | max: 15.2 °C min: 13.6 °C |
38.9 m/s 62.0 m/s |
75.2 % 23.5 m |
89.1 % 1,019 hPa |
06:38:56 19:41:55 |
|
| Oct. 14th 2026 Oct. 14th 2026 | max: 15.4 °C min: 13.8 °C |
47.1 m/s 81.1 m/s |
43.0 % 16.7 m |
89.6 % 1,016 hPa |
06:37:21 19:43:01 |
|
| Oct. 15th 2026 Oct. 15th 2026 | max: 14.5 °C min: 12.4 °C |
45.4 m/s 56.9 m/s |
95.5 % 14.5 m |
93.2 % 1,013 hPa |
06:35:47 19:44:07 |
|
| Oct. 16th 2026 Oct. 16th 2026 | max: 12.2 °C min: 10.6 °C |
37.1 m/s 50.5 m/s |
83.5 % 18.2 m |
82.0 % 1,014 hPa |
06:34:13 19:45:14 |
|
| Oct. 17th 2026 Oct. 17th 2026 | max: 12.8 °C min: 10 °C |
43.7 m/s 55.6 m/s |
50.4 % 23.9 m |
76.2 % 1,020 hPa |
06:32:41 19:46:21 |
|
| Oct. 18th 2026 Oct. 18th 2026 | max: 12.1 °C min: 9.5 °C |
35.5 m/s 56.9 m/s |
55.4 % 24.1 m |
77.6 % 1,025 hPa |
06:31:09 19:47:28 |
|
| Oct. 19th 2026 Oct. 19th 2026 | max: 13.3 °C min: 9.5 °C |
23.2 m/s 31.4 m/s |
58.1 % 24.1 m |
79.2 % 1,024 hPa |
06:29:38 19:48:36 |
|
| Oct. 20th 2026 Oct. 20th 2026 | max: 13.4 °C min: 9.8 °C |
19.1 m/s 20.6 m/s |
59.5 % 24.1 m |
75.7 % 1,022 hPa |
06:28:08 19:49:44 |
|
| Oct. 21st 2026 Oct. 21st 2026 | max: 14.2 °C min: 11.8 °C |
32.0 m/s 47.8 m/s |
30.3 % 24.1 m |
80.9 % 1,019 hPa |
06:26:38 19:50:52 |
Would you like to travel to Marlborough Sounds on a cruise ship or would you just like to know when a certain ship will dock there? Here you will find an overview of the cruise ships that will be calling at the port of Marlborough Sounds.
| Date | Ship | Passaengers (min - max) | Arrival | Departure | Details |
|---|
| Port | Distance |
|---|---|
| Queen Charlotte Sound in New Zealand | 22,01 km |
| Picton in New Zealand | 32,18 km |
| Wellington in New Zealand | 65,30 km |
| Nelson in New Zealand | 73,43 km |
| Kaiteriteri in New Zealand | 89,79 km |
| Tarakohe in New Zealand | 102,44 km |
| Kaikoura in New Zealand | 158,43 km |
| New Plymouth in New Zealand | 217,20 km |
| Napier in New Zealand | 292,92 km |
