Paradise in the Marlborough Sounds.
Destination Marlborough Marlborough is the perfect place for romance, relaxation or adventure. Climb awe inspiring mountains for breathtaking views, plunge into pure sparkling rivers, or cruise around the bays of the stunning Sounds. Discover gourmet food and world class wine from luxurious resorts and rustic vineyard restaurants.
Heritage Marlborough’s history is layered with rich stories, significant for all of New Zealand and fascinating in the global context. From the first known Polynesian settlement site at the Wairau Bar in 1200 AD, to the forging of the wine industry 40 years ago, to remerments of early settlers and Māori legend in the high country and mountains and aviation achievements in the skies, you’ll find a heritage thread running through every aspect of Marlborough’s landscape and community. To emerce yourself into some of Marlborough’s history, the Edwin Fox Museum and Marlborough Museum should be on the top of your ‘to do’ list.
1800’s ship on display at Picton museum Situated on Picton’s foreshore, Edwin Fox Museum is one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets. It is home to the last wooden immigrant vessel that brought people to New Zealand in the late 1800’s and is the last surviving Australian convict ship. Step onboard and experience this giant artefact. Soak up the atmosphere and discover the stories of the passengers. A great all-weather family friendly activity, which is open daily.
Marlborough Museum - inspiring generations Experience the heart of Marlborough through heritage at Marlborough Museum, famous for its wine exhibition which showcases the region’s history of wine and viticulture. Other exhibitions include artefacts from Marlborough’s Polynesian settlement site, c.1250 AD, the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1770; and the Wairau Affray of 1843, and an
exhibition by the Marlborough Embroiders’ Guild, illustrating scenes from the Diary of Sir Joseph Banks. Discover the Victorian Rooms, see the display of Moa Bones and Wild Things natural history display.
Eat, play, stay You’ll be spoitl by the many walks, bike rides, cruises and kayaking trips in Marlborough, including the winding waters of the Marlborough Sounds, thrilling experiences with marine life, and the 30+ winery cellar doors showcasing local awardwinning wines. Visit the community run Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary, a mainland sanctuary just a few minutes by boat from Picton, full of native birdlife. For sun, sand, surf, swimming and walking tracks through native bush, take a visit to White’s Bay. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the Picton Foreshore, or grab an order of fish and chips to eat on the beach. Enjoy a tour boat to one of the mussel, oyster or salmon farms within the unique waterways to see how some of their wonderful seafood is grown. Travel from Havelock or Picton and call in to isolated homesteads and secluded bays to deliver mail and groceries to families living in the Marlborough Sounds. Devour a beautiful brunch at the Sunday morning Marlborough Farmers’ Market or cool down with fresh-fruit ice creams and juicy cherries.
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