Activities List For a comprehensive list of The Portage fun and adventurous activities we have planned check out our Activities List for Summer 2020/2021. For any enquiries please contact reception or download a copy here.
The Portage is an ideal place to base yourself to discover Marlborough and the Sounds. We make it easy for you to explore the local area, relax at the hotel, hike the Queen Charlotte Track or cruise the local waterways.
Relax and soak up the atmosphere in one of our comfortable lounges, on the deck overlooking Portage Bay, or down at the beach. Discover the native birds and flowers in the garden or wander further afield to discover a local beach. Local walks range from 20 minutes up to half a day or longer on the Queen Charlotte Track. Hire a kayak or stand up paddleboard. Enjoy a game of lawn bowls, volleyball or croquet.
Opposite the Snapper Bar & Eatery is our outdoor swimming pool for the kids (& old kids) to enjoy.
Kayak Rental $30 for 1 hour/ $45 2 hours (double kayak) $20 for 1 hour/ $30 2 hours (single kayak) Kiddie Kayaks free of charge!
Stand up Paddleboard Rental $25 - 1 hour.
Croquet Place the hoops across the lawns and take your best aim with a mallet.
Snorkelling We have snorkelling equipment for children and adults.
Fishing We have rods suitable for children and adults. Bait can be purchased from front desk for $10.
Badminton Set up on the lawn and grab a group of friends to enjoy a game.
Lounge boardgames Help yourself to several boardgames located in the main lounge.
Volleyball Set up at the beach and get ready for a game!
Please contact reception@theportage.co.nz for more information
Download Activities Brochure
In the heart of the Marlborough Sounds is the spectacular Queen Charlotte Track.
Stretching from the legendary Ship Cove to Anakiwa, home of the Outward Bound school, the track passes through lush coastal forest and meanders around historic bays and along skyline ridges - all the while providing walkers or cyclists with unsurpassed views of both Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. The whole track can be completed in 5 days on foot, or 3 days on a mountain bike with luggage transfers available by water-taxi.
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When you stay with us at The Portage, make sure you book in a tour with Pete's Cruise Tours. Available 7 days a week, the local tour guide Pete offers cruises that are very flexible and don't run to a timetable or a set route. The guide serves to help you discover the Kenepuru Sound and can tailor their tour to whatever you want it to be. They provide personalized cruises of the Kenepuru Sound, transfers for the Queen Charlotte and Putanui Point tracks. You can combine a cruise or track option, or go to play golf at the Nopera Golf Course. Bookings are essential preferably by the day before.
Tours can be booked at the front desk.
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Locally owned and operated, Pelorus Air offers a great opportunity to access the Marlborough Sounds and the top of the South Island.
As far as unique New Zealand experiences go, swimming with dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds is at the top of the list! Experienced guides will take you on a search for the 5 different species of dolphins found in this area, and it's then up to you whether you enjoy these spectacular animals from the boat or take a dip into the water for a personal encounter.
Each day is different at The Portage and so are our rooms. Enjoy magic views, relax in comfort and be at one with nature.
The Portage is an ideal place to base yourself to discover Marlborough and the Sounds. Explore the local area, relax at the hotel, hike the Queen Charlotte Track or cruise the local waterways.
Access is easy for guests staying at The Portage. The central location ensures the hotel is easily accessible by road, water or air.