Marlborough Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Marlborough, New Zealand with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Marlborough, New Zealand

Marlborough is a region located on the northeastern tip of the South Island of New Zealand and is the largest wine-producing region in the country. It is also known for its stunning natural beauty, diversity of outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Marlborough, from the best places to visit and things to do to where to stay and what to eat.

Introduction to Marlborough

Marlborough is bordered by the Tasman Sea to the north, the Kaikōura Range to the east, and the Richmond Range to the south. The region is known for its world-class wineries, nature reserves, and coastal landscapes. The main city in the region is Blenheim, which is also the commercial center of the wine industry.

List of Places to Visit in Marlborough

Here are some must-visit places in Marlborough:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: This museum features a collection of World War I and II aircraft and artifacts.
  • Brayshaw Heritage Park: This open-air museum offers a glimpse into Marlborough’s pioneering past.
  • Edwin Fox Maritime Museum: This museum houses the world’s oldest surviving wooden sailing ship, Edwin Fox.

Natural Attractions of Marlborough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Marlborough Sounds: This network of waterways is a haven for boating, kayaking, and fishing enthusiasts.
  • Queen Charlotte Track: This 71-kilometer hiking and biking trail offers stunning views of the sounds and is dotted with accommodations and restaurants along the way.
  • Mount Richmond Forest Park: This park is a great place for hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marlborough

Marlborough has several scenic and challenging hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Queen Charlotte Track: This track is the most popular hiking and biking trail in Marlborough.
  • Mount Robertson Track: This uphill hike is rewarded with stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.
  • Wither Hills Farm Park: This park has trails for all skill levels and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Marlborough: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tours: Marlborough is known for its world-class wines, and various companies offer wine tours that allow visitors to sample the region’s famous Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs.
  • Whale Watching: Kaikōura, a nearby town, is one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales, as well as other marine life like dolphins, seals, and albatrosses.
  • Marlborough Farmers’ Market: This weekly market offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marlborough

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Marlborough:

Day Activity
Day 1 Wine tours and tasting in Blenheim
Day 2 Hiking in Mount Richmond Forest Park
Day 3 Kayaking and boating in Marlborough Sounds
Day 4 Whale watching and sightseeing in Kaikōura
Day 5 Cycling and exploring in Queen Charlotte Track
Day 6 Exploring the museums and historical sites in the region
Day 7 Relaxing and shopping at the Marlborough Farmers’ Market

Food and Drink Scene of Marlborough

Marlborough is well-known for its vineyards and wineries, but it also has a thriving food scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green-lipped mussels: These mussels are native to New Zealand and are often on the menu in Marlborough restaurants.
  • Crayfish: This lobster-like crustacean is popular in Marlborough and can be found in many local seafood restaurants.
  • Venison: This lean red meat is another staple in Marlborough cuisine and is often served in stews or grilled.

Local Beverages

  • Sauvignon Blanc: This wine varietal put Marlborough on the map and continues to be the region’s most famous export.
  • Pinot Noir: This red wine grape has become increasingly popular in Marlborough and is known for its fruitiness and smooth finish.
  • Craft Beer: Marlborough has several craft breweries that offer unique and flavorful brews.

Where to Stay in Marlborough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Marlborough has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, including:

  • Luxury Hotels: Several luxury hotels, such as Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses and The Marlborough Lodge, offer top-end service, amenities, and stunning views.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Scenic Hotel Marlborough and Chateau Marlborough are popular mid-range options in Blenheim.
  • Backpacker Hostels: There are several budget hostels and backpackers’ lodges throughout Marlborough that offer affordable accommodation without compromising comfort.
  • Bed and Breakfasts: Several bed and breakfasts, such as Vintners Retreat and Antria Boutique Lodge, offer personalized service and a homely atmosphere.

What to Buy in Marlborough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir wines: These wines are the perfect souvenir to take home and share with friends and family.
  • Manuka Honey: This honey is made from the nectar of the Manuka bush, which is native to New Zealand and has healing properties.
  • Greenstone and Pounamu: These precious stones are found in New Zealand and are often carved into jewelry or decorative items.

Local Culture and Customs of Marlborough

Marlborough has a rich Maori and European heritage, which is reflected in its art, music, and cuisine. The Maori culture, in particular, has a strong presence in Marlborough, and visitors can experience traditional songs, dances, and crafts at various events throughout the region.

Best Time to Visit Marlborough

The best time to visit Marlborough is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also peak tourist season, and prices for flights and accommodations are higher. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marlborough

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Marlborough:

Do:

  • Try the local wines and cuisine
  • Respect the Maori culture and customs
  • Take part in outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and boating

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Ignore signs indicating restricted areas or dangerous waters
  • Remove or disturb any natural or cultural artifacts

Safety and Health

Safety in Marlborough

Marlborough is a generally safe region, but visitors should be aware of basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables in cars and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Health in Marlborough

New Zealand has public healthcare, and Marlborough has several medical facilities. Visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance and take precautions against sunburn, dehydration, and insect bites.

Getting to Marlborough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Marlborough can be reached by air, road, and ferry. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Marlborough

  • Blenheim Airport, also known as Woodbourne Airport, is the primary airport in Marlborough and is served by domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Bus Stations Near Marlborough

  • InterCity offers daily bus services to Blenheim from several major cities in New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Marlborough can be accessed by ferry from Wellington to Picton.
  • Private Vehicle: Road tripping through New Zealand is a popular option for many travelers, and Marlborough is easily accessed from the North Island via the Cook Strait ferry.

How to Get Around in Marlborough

The best way to get around Marlborough is by car, as public transportation is limited. Taxis and rental cars are available in Blenheim and Picton, and several bike rental shops are located along the Queen Charlotte Track.

Where to Go Next from Marlborough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marlborough is surrounded by several popular destinations that are worth visiting, including:

  • Kaikōura: This coastal town is famous for its marine life and stunning landscapes.
  • Nelson: This city is known for its art galleries, craft breweries, and nearby Abel Tasman National Park.
  • Wellington: New Zealand’s capital city is only a ferry ride away from Marlborough and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, entertainment, and food options.

Conclusion

Marlborough is a region that has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to culture vultures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wine tasting, or learning about Maori history and culture, Marlborough has plenty to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Marlborough with ease and make the most of your time in this stunning region of New Zealand.

Havelock marina Havelock marina A Cook Strait ferry navigates Tory Channel in the Marlborough Sounds A Cook Strait ferry navigates Tory Channel in the Marlborough Sounds Panorama of the Seaward Kaikoura Range from the town of Kaikoura Panorama of the Seaward Kaikoura Range from the town of Kaikoura NASA image showing the Space Shuttle over the Marlborough Sounds NASA image showing the Space Shuttle over the Marlborough Sounds


    Marlborough Sounds
    Rai Valley
    Renwick
    Seddon