Diving

The Marlborough Sounds have an excellent dive site in the Mikhail Lermontov, recognized as one of the world's great wreck dives. In 1986, this Russian cruise ship came too close to shore and sank on her side in 100 feet of water in Port Gore, on the edge of Cook Strait. (One life was lost.) The 600-foot-long ship is now an exciting dive site for anyone with moderate diving skills. September and October generally have the best visibility but trips run all year.

E-Ko Tours. Swim with or watch dolphins from September through April. Rare Hector dolphins, plus bottlenose, Dusky, and common dolphins all frequent the sheltered Marlborough Sounds. Visits from orcas (killer whales) are another highlight. Or engage with the prolific birdlife on Motuara Island, an island wildlife reserve and home to rare and endangered species. Walk to the top of the island for a great view of the Sounds. Several tour options include Dolphin Swim and View, Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary and Dolphin Cruise, and Bird Watchers Expedition, including close-up encounters with King Shags. The Waterfront, Picton Foreshore, Picton, Marlborough, 7220. 03/573–8040; 0800/9453–5433; e-ko.nz. From NZ$99.

Nine Dives Picton. Whether you're a qualified diver looking to explore a shipwreck, or a snorkeler keen to engage with seals, "Nine" is your man, PADI certified and a Department of Licensed company. He'll take you to top scuba diving sites, such as the Long Island Marine Reserve, teeming with fish, or the wreck site of the Russian cruise liner Mikhail Lermontov. He runs a small boat so it will be weather dependent, and he only takes qualified divers. But you don't need scuba qualifications to splash with the seals. Nine will take you to a sheltered bay with your snorkel and you can engage with Sammy, or with other fish if the seals go shy. Nine will also introduce you to other marine life and the birds above water. Picton, Marlborough. 03/573–7323; 0800/423–483; www.ninedives.co.nz. Seal swims NZ$150.