About
Arapawa Blue Pearls Tours, Marlborough Sounds
Discover the Magic of Arapawa Blue Pearls
Experience an unforgettable journey at Arapawa Blue Pearls, where nature, innovation, and sustainability come together. Our exclusive Pearl Tours offer a rare glimpse into the world of New Zealand’s unique Abalone-Paua pearls, guided by the passionate Radon family.
Pearl Tour Options
Prices quoted in NZ$, subject to change.
Discovery Paua Pearls Foundation Tour (90 mins)
- Learn how paua produce the extraordinary Arapawa Blue Pearls.
- Land-based tour, suitable for ages 4 to 100+.
- Includes morning/afternoon tea.
- Add a delicious paua tasting for $20.
Discovery Paua Pearls Luxury Tour (4 hours)
- Step-by-step insight into sustainable paua pearl farming.
- Land-based tour with a scenic introduction to the farm.
- Includes morning tea, a light lunch, and a detailed pearl grading session.
Tour Highlights
- Paua Pearl Farming – Learn about the lifecycle, sustainability, and grading of these rare pearls.
- Farm Visit – See adult paua in their specialised environment, and (seasonally) tiny paua in the hatchery.
- Arapaoa Eels – Meet our fascinating pet longfin eels.
- Breathtaking Views – Take in the stunning landscapes of Whekenui Bay and Cook Strait.
- Pearl Jewellery – Visit our boutique shop featuring exquisite locally crafted jewellery.
Getting Here:
Water Taxi & Mail Boat Cruise
- Operator: Picton Water Taxis / Beachcomber Cruises
- Phone: +64 3 573 6175
- Email: office@mailboat.co.nz
- Private Water Taxi: 50-minute ride to Whekenui Bay.
- Mail Boat Cruise: Departs from Picton on Tuesdays & Fridays at 1:30 PM. The trip takes ~1.5 hours, with a scenic return journey via Ship Cove (~3 hours total).
Helicopter
Southern Helicopters Ltd
- Dean Matthews: 027 224 0744 | Email: dean@southernhelicopters.co.nz
- Mandy Matthews: 027 259 2043 | Email: mandy@southernhelicopters.co.nz
- Pete Darling: 027 590 7985
- Thomas Darling: 027 774 5827
Bespoke Tours Available
For private or customised tours, contact us today to create your perfect experience!
Join us at Arapawa Blue Pearls – where nature’s beauty meets timeless craftsmanship.
Location
Where you'll find them
Whekenui Bay, Arapawa Island, Marlborough, 7250, New Zealand
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Nearby
Places to stay nearby
Places to stay nearby so you can make more of your visit.
Colonial Motel, Blenheim, Marlborough
Blenheim Spa Motor Lodge, Blenheim, Marlborough
Sennen House Luxury Accommodation, Picton, Marlborough
Aldan Lodge Motel, Picton, Marlborough
Ferrylink Motel, Picton, Marlborough
Olde Millhouse Bed & Breakfast, Renwick, Marlborough