DISCOVER ONE OF THE MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS’ BEST-KEPT SECRETS

Escape the crowds for an unforgettable full day of wildlife, island walking, conservation and New Zealand history on Blumine Island/Ōruawairua.

Your adventure begins with a fully guided wildlife cruise through the spectacular waterways of Queen Charlotte Sound. Relax and enjoy the scenery while E-Ko’s experienced crew shares the stories of this extraordinary environment.

Keep watch for playful dolphins, encountered on approximately 90% of our tours, and the endangered New Zealand king shag/kawau, seen on approximately 98% of trips. Complimentary binoculars and E-Ko wildlife identification cards help you enjoy every encounter.

EXPLORE BLUMINE ISLAND AT YOUR OWN PACE

Step ashore on predator-free Blumine Island and begin your independent island adventure using your complimentary self-guiding map.

Follow peaceful coastal and forest tracks through regenerating native bush, discover secluded bays and stop at beautiful viewpoints overlooking Queen Charlotte Sound. The track is generally gentle, with a few short, steep sections adding to the adventure.

Bring your packed lunch and choose your own idyllic place to stop, relax and enjoy the island.

ENCOUNTER ONE OF NEW ZEALAND’S RAREST FOREST BIRDS

Blumine Island is an outstanding conservation success story. Department of Conservation investment and collaboration with E-Ko Tours,Bees NZ, Blacks Fasteners, Untouched World and other supporters have helped transform the island into a thriving predator-free sanctuary.

Its permanent freshwater source and restored habitat support an exceptional abundance of native birds. The sound of birdlife throughout the forest is a remarkable demonstration of what successful restoration can achieve.

E-Ko helped with the programme that returned nationally critical orange-fronted kākāriki to Blumine Island. Our special viewing area has achieved a 95% historical success rate for observing these rare birds living freely in their natural habitat.

You may also encounter South Island tīeke/saddleback, bellbirds, kererū, tomtits, tūī, weka and other native wildlife.

EXPLORE SECOND WORLD WAR HISTORY

Blumine Island protects one of the Marlborough Sounds’ most significant military heritage sites.

Walk to the western gun emplacement and explore the remains of the Second World War military village, including observation posts, magazines and other historic structures constructed to defend Queen Charlotte Sound during the 1940s.

The western battery and military village sites are open for visitors to explore. The eastern gun emplacement is currently closed.

YOUR TOUR INCLUDES

• Fully guided scenic wildlife cruise from Picton
• Return boat transport to Blumine Island
• Complimentary use of binoculars during the guided cruise
• Complimentary E-Ko wildlife identification cards
• Complimentary Blumine Island self-guiding map
• Extended time to explore the island independently
• Wildlife, conservation and heritage commentary
• No Seasickness Guarantee

There is no jetty on Blumine Island, making the beach landing part of the adventure. Wet feet may be possible when stepping on or off the vessel.

Mobile-phone coverage is incomplete across parts of the island. An emergency radio can be hired from E-Ko for $5 per day.

This experience is subject to suitable weather and operating conditions. Wildlife sighting percentages are based on E-Ko’s historical experience and cannot be guaranteed on an individual departure.