Kenepuru Sound is the third largest of the four Sounds that make up the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island, New Zealand. The others are the Queen Charlotte, Pelorus and Mahau Sounds.

The Sounds are a series of drowned valleys formed millions of years ago. There are islands, big bays and tiny inlets, narrow points of land, steep hill sides, and some flat areas. Mt Stokes is the highest peak at 1203m (3948 feet) and is the only subalpine area within the Sounds. There is approximately 1200km of coastline within an area covering approximately 1000 sq km.

The scenery differs vastly from each area. High rock outcrops and cliffs, steep windswept hillsides in the outer sounds, or as you progress into the Sounds the hills have been cleared for farming, some are still in native bush, and others are regenerating into native species. Pine plantations now cover large areas, mostly on previously farmed land. Houses are perched on the hillsides, or tucked away in little bays.

The Sounds are a unique area, and have been a tourist destination since the early 1900´s, mainly for other New Zealanders. Now, it is being discovered by the world, offering a larger range of accommodation choices, but still retaining its special allure.

The Kenepuru is famous for its snapper fishing, boating and now the production of the green mussels (Perna canaliculus) from the many marine farms that are scattered along the coastline.