From the forests and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds to 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 swimming with dolphins or the more laid-back pleasure of selecting a favourite among more than 40 cellar doors. Whatever you choose, this is the perfect place for an indulgent escape.
Highlights
Marlborough Sounds The drowned valleys of the Marlborough Sounds are a stunning scenic wonderland of quiet coves nestled amongst forest-clad hills, ideal to explore under sail. Queen Charlotte Track The 71-kilometre Queen Charlotte Track has fantastic coastal scenery, perfect for hiking, and also offers great mountain bike rides. The track can easily be tackled in sections. Wine tasting Sunny Blenheim on the Wairau Plains is the centre of New Zealand’s renowned Sauvignon Blanc wine-growing region. Awatere Valley The rugged tussock-clad mountains in the southern part of Marlborough are home to huge backcountry sheep stations. Wilderness retreats Dotted on islands and in secluded coves around the Marlborough Sounds are a number of enticing retreats ranging from back-to-nature experiences to luxurious lodges. Rich heritage The Marlborough region has a rich history dating back to early Māori habitation and the arrival of Captain Cook, who anchored at Ship Cove. There are several museums and heritage tours to experience.
Destinations
Havelock Mussel-farming capital and gateway to Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds. Anakiwa Marks the end of the Queen Charlotte Track. Renwick Heart of the Sauvignon Blanc wine industry. Portage Tiny outpost on tranquil Kenepuru Sound. Picton Gateway to the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound and the North Island. Blenheim Main regional town and centre of the renowned Marlborough wine industry.
Getting There and Around
Air Blenheim Airport is the main airport servicing Marlborough with domestic flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch with Air New Zealand. Sounds Air offers flights from Blenheim or Picton to Wellington. Road Blenheim is just over 4 hours from Christchurch and 1 hour, 40 minutes from Nelson. It is a 25-minute drive from Blenheim to Picton. Coaches and shuttles service the area. Christchurch to Blenheim [452 km; 6 hr] Westport to Blenheim [264 km; 3 hr, 45 min] Nelson to Blenheim [116 km; 1 hr, 40 min] Blenheim to Picton [28 km; 25 min] Blenheim to Havelock [63 km; 55 min] Rail KiwiRail’s rail service from Christchurch to Picton, the Coastal Pacific, is currently out of operation while repairs are made on the line. Ferry Interislander and Bluebridge ferries depart from Picton to Wellington several times daily and make for a great scenic cruise. Water taxis provide another transport option.
