Explore the region’s wine and food, places to see and stay and fun ways to get around
Marlborough: Brilliant Every Day
As one of New Zealand’s and the world’s premier food and wine destinations, Marlborough is a drawcard for gourmands and connoisseurs.
And just like a superbly matched cheese and wine, Marlborough’s unique experiences pair perfectly with its sunny climate.
Marlborough truly is brilliant every day.
Boutique, family-run wineries
It simply wouldn’t be a trip to Marlborough without visiting a winery or two, and its many boutique vineyards and cellar doors are waiting to be discovered.
Hans Herzog Artisan Winery: The Herzogs’ 500+ years of winemaking experience has established this family organic winery as one of the most admired and loved estates in New Zealand.
Te Whare Ra: This small hand-tended vineyard takes a natural approach to growing and making wines through organic and biodynamic practices.
Bladen: Take a seat in the garden of Christine and Dave Macdonald, pioneers of Marlborough winegrowing, and enjoy a glass of handcrafted wine while gazing out at the Richmond Ranges.
Forrest Estate: This acclaimed winery lies in the heart of Sauvignon Blanc country. Pull up a bean bag and enjoy the tranquil outdoor atmosphere.
Gibson Bridge: This winery is renowned for its Pinot Gris, which you can sample at their tasting studio on the banks of the fast-flowing alpine-fed Gibson Creek.
FROMM: FROMM Winery’s wines are a combination of European style and Kiwi ingenuity. Taste Pinot Noir, Syrah and the oldest single vineyard Malbec in New Zealand.
Forrest Estate Cellar Door
Forrest Estate Cellar Door
Local hospitality
Chateau Marlborough
Chateau Marlborough
Experience the hospitality of Marlborough’s locals at these accommodations:
Bay of Many Coves: Switch off and recharge in the pristine surrounds of this resort set between native bush and a secluded bay in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, with The Queen Charlotte Track on the doorstep.
Vintners Retreat: This villa accommodation is just minutes away from the region’s top cellar doors, and the tennis court, solar-heated swimming pool and outdoor games make it a great option for families.
Furneaux Lodge: A true slice of paradise at the head of the Endeavour Inlet in the Marlborough Sounds. From basic hiker’s huts to cottages and suites, it caters for all types of holiday-goers.
Picton Yacht Club Hotel: This is the perfect base to explore the gorgeous Picton township, the Marlborough Sounds and the wider Marlborough region, with a range of room types to cater to all budgets.
Chateau Marlborough: This locally-owned luxury boutique hotel in Blenheim has a boutique day spa and on-site restaurant and bar.
Vintners Retreat
Vintners Retreat
Bay of Many Coves
Bay of Many Coves
Just like an expertly matched cheese and wine, Marlborough’s unique experiences pair perfectly with its sunny climate.
Unique things to see
Wining, dining and cycling
A biking wine tour is one of the best ways to explore Marlborough. Choose from either creating your perfect day on a self-guided tour around Marlboroughs' cellar doors, or a range of guided or self-guided itineraries over a full or half day, taking in the scenic sights of the spectacular Richmond Range, Wither Hills, Wairau River, and Marlborough vineyards. Stop for lunch at Wither Hills, Saint Clair or Wairau River.
Brews and beer gardens
There’s also plenty here for beer lovers, from taprooms to beer gardens. Enjoy fresh tap beers in the sun at Boomtown Beer Garden, have a pint in the historic Dodson Beer Garden - housed in the original ale house from 1858 - and taste award-winning, handcrafted beers and ciders at Moa Brewing Co.
By bike, bus, boat or boot …
… explore the Marlborough region in a way that works for you.
By bike: Cycle your way between wineries or tackle the Queen Charlotte Track, most of which is open to mountain bikers all year round.
By bus: Ritchies connects Blenheim with the wider Marlborough region, while Marlborough Shuttles offers airport and ferry shuttles.
By boat: The Marlborough Sounds are best experienced from the water. Picton-based Cougar Line, Beachcomber Cruises and Picton Water Taxis offer transport in and around the Queen Charlotte Sound. Beachcomber Cruises also offers the Mail Boat Cruise, the only official licensed New Zealand Post rural delivery service by water in the area.
By boot: Explore one of the many scenic walking trails through native bush, secluded bays or the marvellous Marlborough Sounds. The 70km+ Queen Charlotte Track is well worth the hike.
Queen Charlotte Sound
Queen Charlotte Sound
View more Marlborough holiday deals and packages here and visit marlboroughnz.com/visit to start planning your next trip to Marlborough today.
Please travel safely and check guidance at https://covid19.govt.nz/ for alert level requirements in the region you're travelling to.
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