If you need to know anything about the ports of call on your cruise, where the ship berths, how you find your guide andu tor vehicle, what transport options there are, then this page is where you need to look.

If you have any information that you think would be useful for fellow passengers please let us know and we will try and incorporate it.  If you notice any errors or omissions please advise us.

General Information

Picton is a small town at the top end of the South Island and port for the Inter Island ferries.  Situated at the head of one of the "Sounds" in a sheltered location, this is a good port to enjoy a water based tour.

Find your guide/tour

If you have a prearranged tour the tour guide and vehicle should be located close to the ships gangway.   Please do not leave the wharf area unless alternative meeting arrangements have been made.

Bus transport

Ship Shuttle Service

Taxis

Taxis in New Zealand are strictly regulated, like all passenger transport, and can usually be found close to the ship in their designated ranks. Taxis can not refuse a fare if asked and can not charge more than the fee shown on the taxi meter which must be switched on once the journey begins. Some taxis also accept payment by credit card, but not all, so its best to check before starting the journey. 

Being a region focused on the sea, you can also find a range of water-taxi services, check at the port or the Information centre.

Information office

There is a small information centre [ I-Site] located in the twon centre a short walk from the cruise ship berth.

Telephone Info

The emergency number in New Zealand is 111 [though 911 also works].  The dialing code for international calls is 00, followed by the country code.  The local area code is 03 which need not be dialed for local calls.  Low cost phone cards can be purchased from the I-Site offices and at many other retail outlets.

Shopping

You will find a small selection of local shops in the town centre, banks and cash machines etc.

Walks

There are a number of walks that can be enjoyed from Picton, it is also close to the starting point for one of New Zealand great walk, the Queen Charlotte Walkway, though this would take many days to complete in full.  Why not take one of the water taxi service to join the walk partway, but make sure you arrange a pickup point for later in the day so you can be back to the ship before it departs.