Destination Highlight: Lochmara Wildlife and Underwater Observatory Tour

Open yourself to the magic of the Marlborough Sounds — a collection of hills, valleys, inlets and bays surrounded by the Pacific Ocean — with a visit to Lochmara. Set on the tranquil shores of the Queen Charlotte Sound, Lochmara captures the spirit and character of the Sounds, and the people's passion for the natural environment, in particular. On arrival you will be guided to the Marine Research and Education Centre (also known as the Reef Project), where you'll have an opportunity to feed friendly short-tail stingrays by hand or simply watch. You may prefer a seaside touch tank containing an array of New Zealand's smaller sea creatures. Step inside the underwater observatory, a submerged vessel with windows on both sides to allow you to view New Zealand's marine life, including carpet sharks, stingrays, crayfish, blue cod, eels and diving shags, all without getting wet. At the conclusion of your guided tour, enjoy 90 minutes to explore the rest of Lochmara. You may swim, sunbathe on a sandy beach, take a walk through the bush and admire Maori sculptures, kayak, balance on a paddleboard, or refresh yourself in the café or bar.