Havelock: Trails, Water and Gold History

Havelock between Pelorus Sound and River Estuaries

Havelock lies at the head of Pelorus Sound and at the mouths of the Pelorus and Kaituna rivers. History, trails to explore on foot or by bike, and trips on the water give a stay here different focuses. You can think ahead about whether you are especially interested in Havelock’s past, getting active on the trails, or experiences on the water. This question can also help you consider Havelock as a place to look for holiday accommodation: first, decide which themes you want to shape your stay.

Gold History, Museum and Art

Before Havelock was settled as a gold-mining town, it was a Māori pā called Motuweka. After gold was discovered in the nearby Wakamarina River in 1863, Havelock developed into a major supply centre for thousands of miners. This history gives the town a specific historical connection, distinct from today’s trail and water experiences.

The Havelock Museum was established in 1973 and opened an exhibition accessible to the public, devoted largely to the sawmilling industry. The local industrial history is also among the themes that define Havelock. Those interested in art as well as gold-mining history can also visit The Gallery Havelock: a two-storey boutique fine art gallery representing artists from the wider Marlborough Sounds region.

Walking and Cycling Trails

The Link Pathway is a 42-kilometre walking and mountain biking trail connecting Havelock, Picton, Anakiwa and the Queen Charlotte Track. The length of the whole trail is a useful guide when planning to include a walking or mountain biking route in your trip. The Motuweka Havelock Boardwalk, completed in 2021, was the final link of the Link Pathway to Havelock. It is described as featuring arched bridges and views over the Kaituna Estuary.

Another trail option is the Motuweka Pathway, which provides pedestrian access to the end of South Mole at the entrance to Havelock Marina. The Nydia Track, which can also be reached from Havelock, is nearby. You can plan it as a two-day trekking route or a five- to eight-hour mountain biking ride. This gives you different ways to get around during your trip, from walking to a longer excursion.

Experiences on the Water

On the water, you can experience Havelock on the Pelorus Mail Boat and the Greenshell Mussel Cruise. The Pelorus Mail Boat offers visitor trips along the mail route. Since 1918, it has carried mail by water to residents of Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere in the Marlborough Sounds. A trip along this route combines a visitor experience today with the ongoing task of mail delivery.

The Greenshell Mussel Cruise departs from Havelock’s busy marina. The Motuweka Pathway also provides a walking route to the end of South Mole at the marina entrance. When choosing activities for a shared trip, you can therefore distinguish between tours on the water and trails to explore on foot or by bike, without trying to fit everything into the same day’s plans. Together with the historical and cultural themes, these offer several possible ways to spend your time in Havelock.

The annual Havelock Mussel & Seafood Festival, held at Havelock Memorial Park, is also part of local life. Havelock offers clearly distinct themes to consider when choosing a holiday home or apartment.

More Places to Explore

Kenepuru Head, Te Rawa, St Omer, Rai Valley, Anakiwa, Picton, Portage and Raetihi.

For the broader travel overview: Marlborough District.