Exploring Elaine Bay
Elaine Bay is a picturesque bay located at the north end of Tennyson Inlet in the Marlborough Sounds. It is accessible via a 1-hour drive from State Highway 6, covering a distance of 42 km along the road to French Pass. The bay connects to Tahiti Reach and subsequently to Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere.
Activities and Attractions
Elaine Bay features a charming beach and a DOC campsite situated right on the water's edge. Although the beach is primarily stony, it remains a popular spot for swimming and kayaking. Access to the water is facilitated by wharves and a swimming platform, provided by the local aquaculture business, Elaine Bay Aquaculture, which specialises in green-lipped mussels. The bay is abundant in wild fish, making it a favourite destination for boating enthusiasts.
Walking Tracks
Visitors to Elaine Bay can enjoy two scenic walking tracks. The Pīwakawaka Track is an easy 45-minute walk heading north to a neighbouring bay with a golden sand beach, which does not have a formal name. The shared Archer Track begins at the eastern end of Elaine Bay and follows the coastline of Tennyson Inlet for two hours until it reaches Penzance Bay. The initial section of this track passes through an exotic pine forest around Red Point, transitioning into native forest for the majority of the walk. Penzance Bay can also be accessed from State Highway 6 via Opouri Road.
How to Get There
To reach Elaine Bay, drive from State Highway 6 towards French Pass. The journey is approximately 42 km and takes about one hour. The bay is located at the northern end of Tennyson Inlet, offering a scenic route through the Marlborough Sounds.
