Tory Channel

Tory Channel is one of the drowned valleys that form the Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand. As the principal channel between Cook Strait and the Marlborough Sounds, it is the route taken by inter-island ferries.

Tory Channel lies to the south of Arapawa Island, separating it from the mainland. At its western end it joins the larger Queen Charlotte Sound, which it meets halfway along the latter's length. Its eastern end meets Cook Strait close to the strait's narrowest point.

Tory Channel forms a substantial part of the ferry route between Wellington and Picton. Erosion attributed to the ferries, particularly the new faster ones (now discontinued), has resulted in speed restrictions.

One of the two candidates for the easternmost point in the South Island (along with Cape Campbell) lies at the entrance of Tory Channel. It is called West Head.

Read more about Tory Channel:  History, Tidal Power

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