Picton, New Zealand 

Your P&O ship docks at Waitohi Wharf, a comfortable walking distance to the centre of town.

Taxis are available at the pier and throughout town.

The Marlborough Region is one of the great vineyard areas of New Zealand and you may wish to take home a selection of wines to help you recall some fantastic memories of this beautiful part of the world. Keep an eye out in Picton and other locations throughout the Marlborough Region for craft shops and galleries that feature exquisite blown glass or jewellery and other items fashioned from local jade or greenstone. Traditionally, the Maori used jade for tools, ornamentation and even weapons. High Street, which runs south from the harbour, and adjacent streets form Picton’s shopping precinct.

For a small town, Picton boasts a number of excellent cafes and restaurants. Most are located along London Quay, facing the harbour, or on High Street. Seafood and local lamb are, of course, specialties, but you could dine casually and al fresco by trying a hearty serve of take-away fish-nchips and find a nice spot by the waterfront to enjoy this inexpensive local treat.

The Marlborough Region has a temperate climate and is renowned for its sunny days. In summer, temperatures generally average a very pleasant 22 degrees C (around 70 degrees F). Rainfall in the region is lower than in most other parts of New Zealand.

Tipping in New Zealand is optional. Tips are usually given only for exceptional service. Between five and ten percent of the bill would be reasonable in a good restaurant if the service has been excellent.

Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Picton has one bank and limited currency exchange facilities.

Public telephones are located in the Picton Ferry Terminal and on nearby High Street.

To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please ensure that you wear comfortable, flat soled shoes and a hat, and bring along some sunscreen and bottled water. It’s also a good idea to bring a warm, waterproof jacket – just in case the wind comes up or it rains.

There are a variety of tours available for you to enjoy during your time in Picton. Subject to availability tours may be booked onboard at the Shore Tours Desk. Passengers will meet at a specific location for each shore tour departure. Please refer to the daily onboard newsletter for the correct place and time. Your friendly Shore Tour staff will be at that location to assist you.