Lochmara Wildlife Recovery and...

Lochmara Wildlife Recovery and Arts Centre

8 Rankers Reviews

1 Face-to-Face

17 Bird Watching

15 Picton / Marlborough Sounds

Maps

Photos

Free kayaks allow you to explore the bay.
Paths lead through bush, with info on native species.
Hand feeding the kakariki is a special experience
Relax overlooking the bay
Find art hidden in the bush...or let it find you.
Explore and discover the spirit of the Marlborough Sounds.

Information

Lochmara Wildlife Recovery and Arts Centre

The Magic of the Marlborough Sounds, captured in an outstanding day trip. Cruise from Picton and discover our hidden world; gorgeous views, conservation projects, native birds, nature walks, NZ art, fantastic food, & the unique character of the area.

Lochmara day trips capture the magic of the Marlborough Sounds: nature, scenery, NZ art, and classic kiwi experiences.

Begin with a scenic cruise from Picton, only 15- 20 minutes.
Take time to discover Lochmara’s unique art and nature experiences. Marine mammal and sea birds (little blue penguins) viewing enroute to Lochmara
Explore our 11 acres of art and native bush trails and conservation projects
Free use of the kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and a safe swimming beach
See the native kakariki parakeets, eels and kune kune pigs being fed
Waterfront cafe art gallery, breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks available
Queen Charlotte Track Panoramic Lookout hike (3.5 hours return, Track pass required $12.00 pp) or walk on our own tracks at no extra cost

2010 Conservation in Action Tourism Award winner, Lochmara day trips are perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to get off the beaten track.

Departs Picton at 9.00 am, 12.15 pm,
Departs Lochmara 2.45 pm and 4.00 pm (5.00pm Summer)

Details

Feature Value Info

Organisation

Lochmara Wildlife Recovery & Arts Centre

Commercial organisation

Location

South IslandMarlboroughPicton / Marlborough Sounds

Categories

  • Activity__bird_watchingBird Watching

Operating Season And Hours

Sept - May: 7 Days 8.00 am - 8.30 pm

Directions

To Coordinates

Directions

Picton Office

Directions

Picton Office

Coordinates

-41.228862738469

173.995420837402

Latitude
-41.228862738469
Longitude
173.995420837402

Reviews

    • Lochmara's fantastic.
    • Perfect day!
    • I want to live here.
    • We had a short honeymoon here.
    Rating Count Percentage
    10/10 6
    75%
    9/10 1
    13%
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    6/10 0
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    5/10 1
    13%
    4/10 0
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    3/10 0
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  • 2.5/5

    The kayaking was a highlight.

    The animal feeding was disappointing. We had a really hard time finding the start of the feeding (confusing signs) and missed out. Sad for our two year old.

    Reviewed almost 9 years ago and experienced in November 2015

    UNITED STATES
    Robyn Hallowell's avatar

    Robyn Hallowell

    Customer

    Hi Robyn,

    Hope you are well in the current covid climate. I thought you would like to know signage has since been increased and updated.

    Stay safe and Stay well

    lochmaralodge's avatar

    lochmaralodge

    Representative

  • 5.0/5

    If you are thinking of spending some time in the Picton/Marlborough area then you should definatly visit Lochmara Lodge.

    Its a short boat ride from Picton, however feels like it is half a world away! The location is amazing with the lodge nestled in the hills almost hidden, yet reveling some real gems. The property has a great winding walk that meanders around showing off great views of the harbour, hidden sculpture in the bush and these brilliant hammocks set up all over the place that are just perfect for lounging around in enjoying the atmosphere of the place. If sitting still isn't your thing, then there is a walk up to the observetory that shows off more great views and then leads you back down through the logdge grounds to the wildlife recovery area. Feeding time of the birds was a brilliant experience and the staff on hand are easy to approach and extremely knowledgeable. The cafe is also worth a visit with a working art gallery inside and yummy food! Try the muffins! We had such a brilliant day over there that i am really keen to head back for a longer stay and take full advantage of their spa facilities and see what the observeatory can offer at night! If you can, definatly go and visit!

    Reviewed about 16 years ago

    NEW ZEALAND
    sarah_scott's avatar

    sarah_scott

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Lochmara's fantastic.

    We went there regularly with the kids in January from our bach in the Sounds. Lots to keep them (and us) entertained. Free kayaks and beach equipment and the rope swings were all big hits. The treasure hunt was a good family activity too. Coffee and food is consistently excellent - best brekkie in Marlborough. LOVE the new bath house - had a great massage there after a big kayaking day. Only criticism is that they stop serving breakfast at 10.30 - this was sometimes too early for us. Highly recommended!

    Reviewed over 14 years ago and experienced in January 2010

    NEW ZEALAND
    colnz's avatar

    colnz

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We were 'blown away' by the wildlife, art and service from Lochmara pwners & staff.

    You can see our comments on the LOCHMARA Facebook site. A lot of "hard work" put in by these guys.. Our 4yo had a ball of a time!! Met lots of friendly wildlife. A real eye opener and I'd recommend this place to any person (and especially Families) who really want to "get away from it all!!" Keep the good work up LOCHMARA!!!

    Reviewed about 14 years ago

    NEW ZEALAND
    cargillsnz's avatar

    cargillsnz

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    We had a short honeymoon here.

    Fabulous food, friendly staff, about 50 hammocks to choose from scattered over the property. A really unique place. We kayaked early in the morning and saw a dolphin. We will definitely go back.

    Reviewed about 14 years ago and experienced in March 2010

    NEW ZEALAND
    Mattie's avatar

    Mattie

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    I want to live here.

    Forever! Amazing. We will definitely go back.

    Reviewed over 13 years ago and experienced in January 2010

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Elin McCallum's avatar

    Elin McCallum

    Customer

  • 5.0/5

    Perfect day!

    Super trip out in Lochmara Lodge Launch, a short trip from Picton but you feel like you are getting away from it all. Helpful, attentive staff, great art, lovely gardens, fine weather, great views from the Queen Charlotte track, love the animals, coffee by the roaring fire. A perfect winter getaway. Thank you!

    Reviewed over 13 years ago

    NEW ZEALAND
    aardvark's avatar

    aardvark

    Customer

  • 4.5/5

    This is a cool place to go and just relax.There are hammocks everywhere and they have double ones too.

    You get free use of kayaks too so if you fancy a kayak and dont want to go on a 4hr tour etc come here

    Reviewed over 15 years ago and experienced in March 2009

    UNITED KINGDOM
    Mark Coffey's avatar

    Mark Coffey

    Customer