77 Destination Marlborough

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.

Visit The Gin Room, a small intimate tasting room specialising in the award winning Roots Marlborough Dry Gin and other rare boutique South Island NZ Gin producers. Meet the small and passionate team who can talk you through the fascinating gin making process and help advise on what gin’s may best suit your pallet. Located at the Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Road.

Enjoy a taste of elegance at Wither Hills Winery

From their classic range to the premium Single Vineyard selection, at Wither Hills they aim to craft a range of wines that reflect the beauty of Marlborough. Dine in style and indulge in the delectable menu designed to compliment their wines. Find them amounst the vines on New Renwick Road.

Kaikoura means ‘eat crayfish’

So why not do as the name suggests? Enjoy local fresh crayfish right where it’s caught. You’ll find Nins Bin on the roadside on your way to Kaikoura. Fresh local sustainably caught crayfish and seafood are cooked onsite with nothing more than fresh water, with the exception of some lemon and a little garlic butter, if you so desire! Johnny Clark, grandson of the original owner is now at the helm. The youngest skipper in New Zealand at eighteen, Johnny now does what’s in his blood, catching and cooking fresh seafood and running the family business. Johnny and his team serve what they catch daily with little fuss and he continues in his grandfathers footsteps to serve local fresh seafood in one of the most breathtaking outdoor cafés in the country. Blenheim Musical Theatre is treating the region to an incredible performance of Les Misérables, which is not to be missed, this May! Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of adversity, broken dreams and unrequited love. Filled with passion, sacrifice and redemption, this musical is a timeless testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Featuring one of the greatest musical scores of all time played by a live 20 piece orchestra, this brand new production features all of the beloved songs including I dreamed a dream, On my own, Stars, Bring him home, One day more, Do you hear the people sing and many more! The 2015 film adaptation of Les Misérables introduced the musical to a new generation of audiences who will now be able to see the stage production live in Blenheim from 18 – 28 May.

Music in the Sounds

This Easter, Saturday 16 April, The Queen Charlotte Tavern will be a fun filled Country Music Festival, welcoming the best and brightest in country music. Featuring Adam McGrath and his band, The Eastern, gold guitar winner Melissa Partridge and Marlboroughs own international award-winning artist Robbie Giddens. A special surprise artist is still to be announced. With a great vibe, and country music filling the air at Linkwater in the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, camp up for the night after a fantastic day of dancing and have your Easter escape sorted.

Escape to Lochmara Lodge - Once discovered, never forgotten

Lochmara Lodge is one of Marlborough’s special slices of paradise with it’s captivating waterfront and peaceful ambience. Not only a hidden escape for those wanting to find peace and relaxation, but an ideal place for families and friends to enjoy activities and educational opportunities. The resort has so much to offer, no matter what guests are looking for. Visitors can fill their days with walks, animal feeding, kayaking/ paddle boarding, discovering what is under water at the observatory, or simply relax in the warmth and read a good book – all while enjoying great food and drinks from the restaurant. It’s a family destination so close to Picton that guests can pop in for a visit or choose to stay for a night or more.

Quality, central stay in the heart of wine country

Scenic Hotel Marlborough offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort with genuinely friendly service. Each wellappointed guest room features individually controlled airconditioning, subtle mood lighting and signature kiwi-made wool and down bedding ensuring you’ll feel refreshed after your visit. Plus, with dog friendly facilities, you need not leave any of the family at home. Hotel facilities include a hot tub and sauna complex, outdoor solar heated swimming pool (Oct – May), bike hire service, wine tasting platters, on site restaurant and on-site parking. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, this 4-star plus hotel is just minutes’ walk from the centre of Blenheim, with some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. Book directly with the hotel and save up to 25% and you can earn AA Smart Fuel discounts to help cover your petrol bill. If you let them know that you have seen this feature you will receive a complimentary wine tasting platter for two when you stay. Book now, these specials are available only until 31 March 2022. Enjoy award winning wines in the heart of wine country.

Delight in the different

Set on an acre of tranquil ambience in Fairhall, Marlborough, Copper Black offers privacy, space and luxury without fuss while being close to everywhere. A stay at Copper Black is guaranteed to be a holiday of lasting special memories being located in the heart of Marlborough wine country and with the Marlborough Golf Course right on the back door step. Turn some laps in the 9m heated swimming pool or relax in the spa. Find your own hideaway in their numerous outdoor seating areas, enjoy dining in their olive grove or BBQ up some magic in a favourite place on the property ‘Elemental Lounge & Grill’, a semi enclosed outdoor lounge and kitchen with a huge BBQ and spit roast, bar fridge and prep area and of course oversized couches.

Choose from two guest rooms, each with a full en-suite and their own separate entrance. The Jasmine Studio is detached from the house and has its own cooking facilities, private deck and garden. Copper Black can also be booked entirely for sole use which is perfect for family get togethers, couples traveling together, or people just wanting their own private luxury stay.

Head over the hill. The cellar doors are open and waiting for you taste glorious Marlborough wine and beer, and the vineyards are bursting with life, perfect for a wine tour by bike. The Marlborough Sounds and seaside towns of Picton and Havelock are your port of call for outdoor adventures, relaxing breaks and all things in-between.