Marlborough

‹‹ back to itinerary

New Zealand makes world class wines – and here you’ll find its largest grape-growing and wine-making region with some 70 wineries on its sundrenched plains.  Use Blenheim as your base for self-drive, bicycle or guided tours to sample fine vintages in picturesque settings.  To the north are the incredibly beautiful Marlborough Sounds.  Simply endless kilometres of drowned valleys which at times rise almost vertically from the sea.  Heavily forested in numerous reserves, isolated holiday hideaways can be found only by boat.  To the south, the coast hugging road winds through tunnels and past rugged coves with sheer mountains, seeming to rise straight out of the sea.  For unique kiwi cuisine en route, pull over for freshly cooked crayfish at roadside caravan stalls.  The coast highlight is the legendary Kaikoura, of whale watching fame.

Highlights

·           Sea Kayaking in the dreamy Marlborough Sound

·           Take a guided walk on Motuara Island Reserve

·           Drive the Queen Charlotte Scenic Drive between Picton and Havelock

·           Hike the Queen Charlotte track – for a few hours, or days!

·           For mussel heaven, make for the Kenepuru Sound from Havelock

·           Tour the Marlborough wineries, made famous for its Sauvignon Blanc

·           Dine out at a selection of New Zealand’s finest restaurants