Havelock Info Centre - Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand

Havelock is a quiet fishing village at the head of the Pelorus Sound.

With a population of just 500 people, Havelock is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to escape the fast pace of the bigger tourist venues. Tourists are still catered for, though, with many fine restaurants and cafés to enjoy, including the Slip Inn café/wine bar beside the water — a perfect place to sample the area’s world famous Green Shell mussels.

Shellfish has become an important industry for Havelock and Sanford operates its South Island processing plant in the town.

Premium–grade mussels are either left in their half–shells then quick frozen for export or restaurant sale; or steamed from their shells and marinated or frozen.

In season, the local fishing fleet gather succulent scallops and opportunities abound for people wanting to catch their own seafood.

Excellent sea fishing can be enjoyed in Pelorus Sound, while freshwater anglers will find many good casting spots along the Rai and Pelorus Rivers.