7 Top Marlborough Must-Do's

Where the pleasures come as steadily as the outdoor pursuits. Walk or cycle tracks with incredible views, venture into pristine pockets of the Marlborough Sounds by cruise, boat trip or kayak. Acknowledging your exertion, well-meaning vineyards pour great drops of liquid reward.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Queen Charlotte Track

Hike or bike this 72km/three to five-day track skimming native bush and coastline. There are many entry points accessible by boat, which can also transport kayaks and mountain bikes.

2. Mussel Pot, Havelock

Consistently smashing the hospo hat trick for great food, service and ambience, this bistro specialises in green-shell mussels and seafood. Dine alfresco or cosy-up next to the fireplace

Havelock © MarlboroughNZ

3. Pelorus Mail Boat

Operating three days a week, join the team at New Zealand Post to deliver mail by water. Crossing Queen Charlotte Sound, meet the locals while dropping off letters and groceries to The Sounds’ most remote places.

4. Pelorus Bridge

New Zealand doing what New Zealand does best: fabulous nature-made days out. Where the bridge crosses Pelorus River, walk to the waterfall and rock pool for refreshing swims; kayak in crystal-clear water; hike to a 417-metre peak or forge a route through intrepid forest.

5. Edwin Fox Ship & Visitor Centre

Home to the world’s oldest merchant ship. Built in 1853, the Edwin Fox remains wonderfully intact, despite its rich and colourful past. Step inside to learn more.

6. Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre © RMP Brown

Get down to Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre for excellent World War displays, memorabilia from Sir Peter Jackson’s own plane collection and vintage aircraft joy rides.

7. Marlborough Wine Trail

Home to the world-renowned Marlborough sauvignon blanc and more than 30 cellar doors, for an annually updated trail map visit wine-marlborough.co.nz/visit/

Winery in Blenheim © Destination Marlborough

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