Stunning scenery and birdlife

The crystal clear waters of the Pelorus River stretch approximately 50 km from the Richmond Ranges to the Havelock estuary. The Pelorus is an artesian river, unlike many other rivers on the South Island that are glacial. Its contributories are the Rai River and Wakamarina River.

The birdlife around the sound and river is remarkable. For generations it has attracted avian enthusiasts. Birds local to the region include blue and white herons, native shags, gannets, ducks, Canadian geese and black swans. Many migratory birds including the pied oyster catchers also call the area home for part of the year.

History Of Pelorus River

The area has always been abundant in marine, forest and river food. It was originally known as Te Hoiere, but was renamed in 1838 following a visit to the area by Lieutenant Phillip Chetwode in the Royal Navy brig HMS Pelorus.

Hobbit fans might recognise part of the Pelorus River as the location used by Peter Jackson for the barrel scene in The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug.