Picton is a gateway town for the South Island. It has a population of about 5000 which swells to over 12000 in the summer holiday season. Many of the activities centre round the rail freight and cars from the ferries and servicing the population in the Sounds. Also an afforestation programme is important. Pictured left is a small bay typical of the ones scattered through the Sounds.

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The main entrance to the Marlborough Sounds for larger vessels is through the Northern Entrance. This area is excellent for sailing and the two main types of fish caught are blue cod and gurnard.