Cabbage trees, Alligator Head, outer Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a unique part of New Zealand’s coast, formed where the subsidence of the Earth’s crust over millions of years has led to the gradual submergence of the headwaters of former river catchments to create an intricate network of drowned valleys known as a ‘ria’ coast. With about 1500 km of coastline and many bays and islands, the Sounds are a favoured habitat for a diverse range of marine life and birds, and are a favourite holiday destination for locals and tourists alike.

Alligator Head lies at the entrance to Pelorus Sound. From here there are stunning coastal views to be had in all directions, from D’Urville Island to the west to the lower North Island to the east. Although Alligator Head is farmed, its slopes also sport a great number of mature cabbage trees (Cordyline spp.) which make for a striking sight when seen up close.

This late winter photograph shows the view to the east from just south of Allaigator Head, looking first over the narrow peninsulas of Cape Lambert and Cape Jackson and then out over Cook Strait to the North Island on the eastern skyline.