Discover Kenepuru & Pelorus Sounds | South Island | New ZealandGuest post by Jennifer Branje | Southproud.co.nz

Often overshadowed by sister sound Queen Charlotte, these magnificent waterways in the Marlborough Sounds are saturated with an abundance of natural beauty, marine life and outdoorsy delights!

Kenepuru Sound is a large arm of the Pelorus Sound. The tiny township of Havelock which is the service centre for Kenepuru & Pelorus, is steeped in mining and logging history. Settled in the mid 1800’s, Havelock was once home to two of New Zealand’s greatest scientists, Sir William Pickering and Sir Earnest Rutherford. This place of incredible natural beauty shows no evidence of the evolution of rocket science nor the splitting of the atom. What it does offer is an incredible opportunity to experience a laid back, uncluttered slice of New Zealand. While small, Havelock has all the amentities required to keep you stocked up during your stay along with fantastic eateries, bars and marine services.
Families especially love to holiday here. The waters are calm, warm and inviting. Sheltered from the wind and big tidal swells, kayaking is a dream. Mud flats can be explored safely at low tide and collected shellfish make a delicious addition to the evening BBQ. The Nydia Track & Link Pathway afford splendid views and birdlife in Marlborough’s temperate climate. Dolphins and other marine life frolick playfully in the bays and can often be seen surfing the bow waves of passing boats. 
Many of the dwellings in the district are holiday homes inhabited by families when time permits. Sounds Great Holiday Homes facilitate the opportunity to rent some of these beautiful homes as holiday lets. Rentals are a fantastic way to holiday without being restricted to where you can park your caravan or motorhome and the cost is very comparable. Pack a bag and live the dream, if only for a week or two! Some offer the use of kayaks and other recreational equipment. Some are accessed by boat only. Making one of these vacation rentals your home away from home is easy. They’re secret little hideaways where you can truly chill out away from the bustle of everyday life. It's escapism at its best!

If you want to get the most out of a short stay, why not jump on board Foxy Lady Cruises. She’s a beautiful launch with abundant accommodation and deck space. Sleeping up to twelve people this is an accommodation option many don’t even think about. You get all the benefits of being on the water, fishing, swimming and relaxing as you cruise. Fully catered and licensed you can take a tipple with you and relax on deck while watching the sun set. You can board from Te Mahia Bay, Havelock or Duncan Bay. Foxy Lady is a family owned launch and your hosts Bruce and Susanne have extensive local knowledge. This roomy vessel has excellent space and facilities for your end of year work excursion, corporate function or family retreat. They also offer an opportunity to introduce your children to an exciting fishing experience in a family friendly environment.
If you’re self-driving, either by car or camper, care and attention is a must. The roads into the Sounds best kept secrets are narrow and winding. Don’t rush and you’ll be fine. These little bays pack a big punch and will leave you with a lasting impression of peace, tranquillity and the wonders of nature.