Marfells Beach/Cape Campbell Route
Located in Marfells Beach area in the Marlborough region
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Introduction
This unmarked route follows the beach from the eastern end of the camping area to Cape Campbell, the southernmost extreme of Cook Strait.Dog access
Allow half a day for this walk and be aware that high tides can block access around the foot of bluffs and the second half of the walk out to the lighthouse. This section should be done at low tide only. Please check tide timetables before you go. Above the high tide line, land beyond the first headland is private land.
The striking Cape Campbell lighthouse is the second, built in 1903 to replace the original built in 1870.
The turn-off to Marfells Beach is 36 km south of Blenheim via State Highway 1. The beach is a further 8 km down Marfells Road.
- Hot, dry conditions and strong, cold winds are both common in this area.
- Check the tides before undertaking the Marfells Beach/Cape Campbell walk.
- High tides can block access around the foot of bluffs.
- Access is via the beach only - above the high tide line is private land.
- Marlborough has a dry climate and fire is a significant hazard to human safety, natural areas and agriculture. Open fires are not permitted at any of the East Coast reserves and only portable stoves should be used for cooking.
- Take your rubbish away with you - no facilities are provided.
- Purity of drinking water cannot be assured unless it has been boiled, filtered or treated.
- Dogs are prohibited from Marfells Beach to Chancet Rocks.
This small coastal reserve has a long history as a public recreation area, starting in 1925 when the Marfell family exchanged land with the Crown for that purpose. The reserve has since been extended and the facility improved and is managed by DOC as a picnic and camping area.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 3 546 9339 |
| nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa 1/37 Halifax Street Nelson 7010 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |