If you want to get a real inside view of how the locals live on the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound , you should definitely check out the Magic Mail Run. This is a great way to see the amazing Marlborough Sounds - and get a taste of life in some pretty remote spots.

Beachcomber Fun Cruises offer the only licensed New Zealand Post Rural delivery service by water in the Queen Charlotte Sounds . The best thing about being on the boat is that it gets into all the nooks and crannies and you get a real glimpse into the excitement of mail day.

The boat delivers the mail and groceries to families that live in these stunning out of the way places. So you get to say 'hello' to the children waiting on the wharf for their school work to be delivered from correspondence school, and the people who rely on the boat as their means of getting supplies from the mainland.

The boat docks at Ship Cove, where intrepid explorer Captain James Cook made his New Zealand base.

During the 15 minute stop, there's a chance to have a squiz at Captain Cook's memorial, walk along the beach or have a paddle in the creek. You can even imagine where Captain Cook's ship, the Endeavour, was anchored and watch the resident oyster catchers, weka and paradise ducks bobbing along in the water.

The tour lasts approximately four hours and 25 minutes, and you'll also hear about the history of the Marlborough Sounds, while checking out marine life along the way such as dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. Make sure you listen out for native birds such as the tui and bellbirds.

This really is a fantastic way to see how people live in these remote parts of the Marlborough Sounds and is definitely worth the trip.

The Magic Mail Run departs daily from Monday to Saturday at 1.30pm. Although the mail route varies daily to cover the many different areas within the Queen Charlotte Sound.

• The tour lasts 4 hours and 25 minutes, and you'll have chance to sit back and relax with a complimentary tea or coffee.


• You will have 15 minutes ashore at Ship Cove to have a look around.


• A trip on the mail run boat costs $85 per adult.


• For more information drop into the Beachcomber Fun Cruises office on The Waterfront in Picton. Email beach@beachcombercruises.co.nz or visit www.beachcombercruises.co.nz


• You can also call 03 573 6175 or Freephone (NZ only) 0800 624 526, email: office@mailboat.co.nz or visit www.mailboat.co.nz

Written by Rachel Pinder.

Rachel stayed at Sequoia Lodge and Backpackers, 3a Nelson Square, Picton, which is a lovely home-from-home hostel where you can enjoy a yummy chocolate cake and ice cream every night too. Check out www.sequoialodge.co.nz for more details or call 0800 222257.