Marlborough

Delight in exploring a myriad of pretty waterways, pristine native forest and internationally renowned wineries in a very special corner of New Zealand.

From the lush forests and quiet inlets of the Marlborough Sounds to golden plains criss-crossed with grape vines further south, Marlborough is a region blessed with natural abundance. Bathed in sunshine, it invites exploration year-round; whether your tastes run to the thrills of diving around a shipwreck and swimming with dolphins or the more laid-back but equally exciting pleasure of trying to choose a favourite among the more than 100 wineries in New Zealand’s largest wine-making region. Gateway to the South Island for visitors catching an inter-island ferry from Wellington, it’s the perfect place for an utterly indulgent escape.

DO IT. Sample Sauvignon Blanc at a winery, sea kayak around hidden coves, experience a 4WD adventure in the Awatere Valley, walk the Queen Charlotte Track, visit Blenheim’s Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, sample local food and wine at the Marlborough Wine Festival in February.

Destinations

Blenheim Main regional town and centre of the Marlborough wine industry.
Havelock Gateway to Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds.
Marlborough Sounds Tranquil waterways and bush-clad coves offer a myriad of water activities and hiking opportunities.
Picton Gateway to Queen Charlotte Sound and the North Island.

Getting there and around

Air Blenheim Airport is the main airport servicing Marlborough with domestic flights from a range of New Zealand destinations. Koromiko Airport near Picton offers Sounds Air services to Wellington and Kaikoura. The region has no direct international flights.
Road Blenheim is 4 hours from Christchurch and 1 hour, 30 minutes from Nelson. It is a 30-minute drive from Blenheim to Picton. Coaches and shuttles service the area.
Rail Tranz Rail operates a service from Christchurch (TranzCoastal). Ferry Interislander and Bluebridge ferries depart from Picton to Wellington several times daily. Water taxis provide an essential transport option for isolated lodges and resorts.

Insider's tip

Seafood lovers should visit the Greenshell Mussel capital of Havelock to tour a mussel farm and sample the delicacy.

Fit for a queen

The three- to five-day, 71-km Queen Charlotte Track offers varied terrain and picturesque scenery to walkers and mountain bikers of an average fitness level. A good range of accommodation is offered along the way. From 1 December to 28 March only the final two sections from Camp Bay to Anakiwa can be cycled.