Lochmara Lodge

Lochmara is open and the team can’t wait to see you all!

A short trip by boat from Picton and Waikawa marinas, Lochmara is a must-do on many boaties’ summer plans, with something for all the family.

Lochmara Cafe

Lochmara boasts a fully licensed café and restaurant which overlooks the water. It’s an amazing spot for families and couples to enjoy the range of offerings from the kitchen or bar. Open 7 days for breakfast (8am -10.30am), lunch (11.30am – 3pm. No bookings required), dinner (from 6pm) and all-day coffee, home baking and snacks and a range of local wines, beers and juices. The menu and cuisine are based on seasonal Marlborough flavours, reflecting the regional specialities from sea and land.

Underwater Observatory

Check out the underwater observatory to learn all about the marine biodiversity and habitats of the Marlborough Sounds, feed the fascinating stingrays in their natural environment, and be delighted by NZ marine life in the seaside touch tank.

See the stunning MarlboroughSounds from a whole new perspective!

The vessel is permanently moored at Lochmara and there is plenty of standing room and windows on both sides. A few of the species you may see are carpet sharks, stingrays, crayfish, blue cod, tarakihi, conga eels, and diving shags.

Lochmara runs fully guided tours of approx 40 minutes, so you will be well-informed and entertained by their passionate, fully qualified guides. The tours include stingray feeding and some great learning experiences and fun for the kids with the educational “seaside touch tank”.

Guided tours are at 10.10am, 11.00am, 12.50pm and 2.45pm. Bookings essential.

Wildlife Recovery Programmes

Lochmara Lodge have been operating an extensive Mainland Island predator control program for the past 12 years in addition to widespread habitat planting. The birdlife on the property speaks for itself, the dawn chorus is amazing!

Four years ago they started developing a facility for Wildlife Recovery programs and forming a relationship with the Department of Conservation. Over this time they have set up programs working with injured wildlife, Kakariki, Weka, and the Marlborough Green Gecko as well as providing nesting boxes for the Blue Penguin and the Tree Weta, and visitors to the lodge can enjoy and learn about these native species in their natural environment.

Information for Boaties

• Free swing moorings are available subject to availability during the day – call on VHF Channel 63
• Overnight mooring fee applies, if not dining
• Free tender transfers between jetty and moorings
• GPS 41.13.709S by 173.59.67E –Jetty No. Q5490
• Freephone0800 562 462      lochmara.co.nz