Last updated October 2026
The Piwakawaka Track is a short, easy walking track that leads from the northern end of Elaine Bay to a small beach, Piwakawaka Bay, in the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere area. Elaine Bay is on French Pass Road, about 48 km from Nelson.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) grades the track as easy to intermediate and gives it 45 minutes. Dogs are allowed on a leash only. It is a simple add-on if you are already in Elaine Bay, perhaps after walking or riding the Archer Track.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Piwakawaka Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Northern end of Elaine Bay, French Pass Road
- Distance from the city
- About 48 km from Nelson
- Walking time
- 45 min
- Track length
- About 2.2 km
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate walking track
- Dogs
- Dogs on a leash only
- Track type
- Walking track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Piwakawaka Track
This is a short coastal outing. From the northern end of Elaine Bay, the track heads around to a small beach, which DOC’s photo caption names as Piwakawaka Bay.
At 45 minutes it is a short add-on to a visit to Elaine Bay.
DOC grades it easy to intermediate and gives little more detail, so plan it as a gentle extra rather than a main event.
Getting There
DOC says to turn off State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley and drive along French Pass Road to Elaine Bay. Water taxis also run from Picton, and yachts, launches, motor boats and sea kayaks can be hired.
Severe weather has damaged many roads in Marlborough, so check Marlborough District Council road updates before you travel.
Know Before You Go
Weather in the Sounds is generally mild but conditions can change quickly, especially on the water. Light fires only in designated areas, boil, filter or treat water for drinking, and in late summer and autumn carry antihistamine if you are allergic to wasp stings. Check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Piwakawaka Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Marlborough District Council: road updates for the Marlborough Sounds before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Piwakawaka Track?
DOC gives 45 minutes for the walk.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it as an easy to intermediate walking track.
Where does it start?
At the northern end of Elaine Bay, on French Pass Road.
Can I take my dog?
Yes, on a leash only.
Where does it go?
To a small beach, Piwakawaka Bay.
How do I get to Elaine Bay?
Turn off State Highway 6 just past Rai Valley and follow French Pass Road to Elaine Bay. Water taxis also run from Picton.
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