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Popular Marlborough Sounds accommodation, Portage Resort, has welcomed the news of the long-awaited reopening of the Kenepuru Road leading to the resort, just in time for the busy Christmas and summer holiday season.
After a two-year closure due to storm damage, Kenepuru Road is set to reopen from Tuesday, December 17, restoring full access to the travelling public that was previously restricted to residents, emergency responder, and essential services.
Access to Portage Resort has been limited to walking off the Queen Charlotte Track, water taxi, boat or helicopter. The road re-opening comes as a welcome relief for the resort management and visitors eager to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Marlborough Sounds this summer.
“We are absolutely delighted that Kenepuru Road is reopening in time for our peak summer season,” says Portage Resort general manager Zahid Ullah.
“This road re-opening is a significant milestone for the region to strengthen sustainable connectivity to the most remote tourism drawcards in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.”
During the road closure, Capstone Hotel Management, which took over management of Portage Resort in August 2023, took advantage of the quiet period to complete a refurbishment of all 42 hotel rooms. The refresh includes new carpets, curtains, and soft furnishings. Additional property enhancements feature new decking on the terrace, renowned for its waterfront and native bush views, as well as a repainted swimming pool, all part of Capstone’s ongoing upgrades.
December also marks the reopening of Snapper Bar & Eatery, a relaxed venue for both locals and resort guests to enjoy casual pub-style dining, socialising, and breathtaking sunsets.
With refreshed accommodation, premium dining experiences, and outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and luxury picnics in the pristine landscapes of the Marlborough Sounds, Portage Resort is well-prepared for a bustling summer season.
