Marlborough Regional Information

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Marlborough is New Zealand in miniature. Everything is here: spectacular rainforest, awesome mountains, secluded beaches, mysterious caves. And our luxurious side is equally well represented, with high-class restaurants, award-winning wine, fascinating crafts and welcoming hosts. The area is spread over the top of the South Island, and is reached by Ferry from Wellington, or along the rocky eastern coast north of Kaikoura. Chances are the sea will sparkle in the sunshine, as you approach one of the sunniest area in New Zealand. Blenheim is Marlborough's largest town with a population of over 24,000. Situated at the junction of State Highway 1 and State Highway 6, Blenheim is the region's economic centre. In the heart of Blenheim's business district is Market Square featuring an ornate rotunda and a wide piazza where people congregate to enjoy Blenheim's abundant sunshine. In keeping with its role as a holiday destination, Blenheim's many parks and gardens lend a festive air to the town. Pollard Park and Waterlea Gardens have attractive flower displays and Seymour Square features an historic monument and multi-coloured fountain. New Zealand is known for the quality of its wine, and the Marlborough region is one of the best. The number of awards won by young Marlborough vineyards is impressive. The Food and Wine festival, held in Blenheim every February, is a wonderful opportunity to sample the region's delights. You may prefer to savour the wines on a guided tour, removing the need for moderation!

From Havelock, the route to Nelson ambles through the rolling hills so typical of rural New Zealand, past sheep dreaming in the sun. The Pelorus River makes an excellent picnic spot, where a wheelchair track wanders through native forest. At Rai Valley, a lonely gravel road twists north above the western arm of the Sounds. Stephens Island, the most northern island, is a Tuatara sanctuary, the world's only living relative of the dinosaurs. The Queen Charlotte Sound boasts a fascinating collection of bays and inlets. Pay a visit to welcoming lodges and enjoy some quality New Zealand Wine and cuisine. Ways to explore the Sound include a 2-hour cruises, full day trips, combination cruise and trekking trips. The Queen Charlotte Track runs from Anakiwa in the south to the Cape Jackson Lighthouse in the far north and is approximately 90kms long.