Seddon Travel Guide

Seddon in New Zealand offers a plethora of cultural and natural attractions. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan a trip to this beautiful town, highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and where to stay.


Introduction to Seddon

Seddon is a charming town located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand’s South Island. The town is situated on the eastern bank of the Awatere River. The area is famous for its vineyards and has numerous wineries. The name Seddon was given in honour of Richard John Seddon, the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1893 until his death in 1906.

The town offers a great blend of natural and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for travellers who want to experience the local Kiwi lifestyle. Here’s our comprehensive guide to help you plan a trip to Seddon.

List of Places to Visit in Seddon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Compleat Angler

The Compleat Angler is a popular attraction for fishing enthusiasts. Here, you can find a variety of fishing gear, including lures, hooks, and rods. The store also has an extensive collection of fishing books and antiques.

The Seddon Museum

The Seddon Museum is a must-visit for those interested in history. The museum showcases the history of the town, including the early settlers, farming, and the Maori culture. The museum also houses a vast collection of photographs and artefacts.

Natural Attractions of Seddon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Awatere River

The Awatere River is a magnificent natural attraction located near Seddon. It is home to several species of trout, which makes it an ideal fishing destination. The river also offers kayaking and rafting opportunities, making it an excellent spot for adventure enthusiasts.

Seddon Range

The Seddon Range offers an extensive network of hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The range has several trails of varying difficulty levels, including the Purple Peak Route and the Mount Muller Track. The trails offer incredible views of the surrounding valley and are excellent for bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seddon

Seddon offers several hiking and biking trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails in the area:

  • The Purple Peak Route: This trail offers breathtaking views of the Awatere Valley and the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 6km long and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
  • Mount Muller Track: This trail is suitable for experienced hikers and offers panoramic views of the region. The trail is approximately 10km long and takes about 5-6 hours to complete.
  • Awatere Tussock Track: This trail is ideal for both hiking and biking. It offers incredible views of the Awatere Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail is approximately 14km long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Seddon: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting Tours

Seddon is home to several vineyards, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers. There are several wine tasting tours available in the area, which offer an opportunity to taste some of the best wines produced in the region.

Fishing Tours

The Awatere River offers a great opportunity for fishing enthusiasts. Several fishing tour operators in the area offer guided fishing tours, which provide an opportunity to catch trout and salmon.

Horseback Riding Tours

Horseback riding tours are also available in the area. These tours offer an opportunity to explore the surrounding area on horseback and enjoy the scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seddon

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Seddon to help you plan your trip:

  • Day 1 – Visit the Seddon Museum and learn about the history of the town.
  • Day 2 – Take a wine tasting tour of some of the best vineyards in the area.
  • Day 3 – Hike the Purple Peak Route for stunning views of the valley.
  • Day 4 – Take a horseback riding tour and explore the Seddon Range.
  • Day 5 – Go fishing in the Awatere River.
  • Day 6 – Visit the Compleat Angler and check out their range of fishing gear.
  • Day 7 – Spend the day exploring the town and enjoying the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Seddon

Must-Try Dishes

Seddon has several restaurants offering local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Crayfish: Freshly caught crayfish is a popular dish in the area.
  • Marlborough Lamb: Locally sourced lamb is a specialty of the region.
  • Paua Fritters: Paua is a type of shellfish found in the region. A popular way to prepare them is by making fritters.
  • Bluff Oysters: Bluff oysters are also a popular dish in the area.

Local Beverages

Seddon is famous for its wine production. Some of the best local wineries include:

  • Allan Scott Family Winemakers
  • Momo Winery
  • Yealands Estate

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

Seddon offers several options for accommodation. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Seddonville Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the town and offers comfortable accommodation.
  • The Station House: This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and is situated near the Seddon Range.
  • Chateau Marlborough: This hotel offers high-end accommodation and is located near several vineyards.

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

Seddon offers a range of souvenirs and local products that make excellent gifts. Some of the best products to bring home include:

  • Wine: Marlborough is famous for its wine production, and bringing home a bottle of locally produced wine is a must.
  • Handcrafted Souvenirs: Several local artisans sell handcrafted souvenirs, including jewellery and wooden carvings.
  • Honey: Seddon is home to several beekeepers, and locally produced honey is readily available in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Seddon

The local culture of Seddon is heavily influenced by the outdoors and farming. The people of Seddon are friendly and welcoming to tourists.

Best Time to Visit Seddon

The best time to visit Seddon is during the summer season, from December to February. The weather is warm, and the days are longer, providing ample time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seddon

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine and wine.
  • Take time to explore the natural attractions of the area.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Seddon

Seddon is considered a safe area for tourists. However, it is essential to take necessary precautions while hiking or exploring the natural attractions in the area.

Health in Seddon

The medical facilities in Seddon are limited. It is important to have adequate health insurance before travelling to the area.

Getting to Seddon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Seddon

The nearest airport to Seddon is the Marlborough Airport, located 20km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in New Zealand.

Bus Stations Near Seddon

Intercity and bus services operate to Seddon from major cities in New Zealand. The nearest bus station is located in Blenheim, which is about 30km away.

Other Options

Car rentals are readily available in the area, providing an opportunity to explore the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Seddon

The best way to get around Seddon is by car. Rental cars are available in the area. Local taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Seddon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Seddon is located near several popular tourist destinations. Here are some places to consider visiting after Seddon:

  • Kaikoura – a coastal town famous for its whale watching tours.
  • Nelson – a vibrant city known for its arts and culture.
  • Christchurch – the largest city in the South Island, offering a range of attractions.

Conclusion

Seddon is a picturesque town located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand’s South Island. The area offers a range of cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to experience the local Kiwi lifestyle. Follow our guide to make the most of your trip to Seddon.