A world of wine and sunshine
If you arrive in the region by sea or air, the intricate detail of the Marlborough Sounds engages your interest immediately. Maori legend describes the entire South Island as Maui’s waka (canoe), wrecked on a reef during a fishing expedition. The shattered bow of the canoe became the Sounds.
Marlborough basks in year-round sunshine, providing perfect conditions for walking, mountain biking, sea kayaking and vineyard explorations. It’s a region where you can pick a theme and follow it through. Focus your itinerary on outdoor adventures, vineyards and wineries, arts and crafts, history and gardens or marine pursuits. Better still, mix them up and experience a little of everything this beautiful region has to offer.
Key Features
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Vines and wines
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest grape-growing and wine-making region. The broad, sweeping plains are home to about 70 wineries. Discover and enjoy on a self-drive, bicycle or guided tour. | |
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The Marlborough Sounds
Bordered by forest that rises almost vertically from the water’s edge, three drowned river valleys offer 1500 kilometres of sheltered beaches and waterways for sailing, cruising, kayaking, fishing and diving. | |
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Queen Charlotte Track
This spectacular walking track winds through 71 kilometres of native forest, along ridges and beside idyllic coves. Travel with a local guide to learn about the habitat and hear the local Maori legends. |
Key Tips
- Marlborough is blessed with a year-round sunny climate and regularly records the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand.
- Marlborough occupies the north eastern corner of the South Island, a scenic ferry ride from Wellington.
- The airports at Blenheim and Picton link Marlborough to all other major New Zealand destinations.
- Marlborough is the southern entry point for the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. It’s also the start of the Treasured Pathway touring route.
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Journals
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Imbibe Marlborough
Sarah Hunter goes exploring in New Zealand’s fabulous Marlborough region, in search of fine wines, extra virgin olive oils and the characters who make them.
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The Queen Charlotte Walkway
Experience the Queen Charlotte Walkway in New Zealand’s picturesque Marlborough Sounds. Options from three hour bush walk to four day hike.
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www.newzealand.com Pages
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New Zealand Food and Wine
Take a gourmet journey through the North and South Islands and discover your appetite for New Zealand.
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MARLBOROUGH
Population: 41,700
Area: 12,494km2
| Follow the wine trail for tastings and beautiful rural scenery. |
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Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
Spring in Marlborough is typically crisp and clear. Temperatures range from 12 to 18°C, with a seasonal average
of 14°C.
Spring weather can be changeable, so check weather forecasts before embarking on sailing or hiking adventures.
It's a time when local bounty is plentiful, including Marlborough’s acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc.
The region's glorious gardens are celebrated at the week-long Hunters Garden Marlborough event.
Tour local wineries and enjoy seasonal cuisine at an exceptional array of restaurants, cellar-doors and resorts.
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