Touring the vineyards and wineries – each with its own distinctive style and character, and dining alfresco amongst the vines.
Learning how to prepare local cuisine and match with wines on a Wine & Food tour or Culinary School session.
Meeting Marlborough artisans in their studios on the Art and Craft trail.
--------
A river boat cruise along the traditional trading route used by the early settlers.
--------
Fly fishing hunting tours and tramping in the back country
--------
Strolling the Wither Hills Farm Park’s network of walks with magnificent views over the vineyard-studded Wairau Plains.
Row upon row of vines as far as the eye can see – that’s the view that awaits you as you approach Blenheim; the region’s main commercial centre and hub of the famous Marlborough wine district. It’s a great base for exploring and indulging in the leisure and lifestyle attractions of the region.
As befits a region of such bountiful, high quality produce, Blenheim boasts an array of dining choices including a thriving café culture, and fine dining restaurants specialising in local cuisine.
The centre of Blenheim (pop. 28,200) is conveniently compact, making it easy to enjoy the town’s amenities on foot. Market Place in the middle of town features a 100-year old rotunda and wide piazza; a great place to soak up the relaxed ambience all around. Explore the shops at a leisurely pace, with a pause for a seriously good coffee or a lightly chilled Marlborough wine in the sunshine.
From here, or the satellite town of Renwick, just 4 minutes from the airport, you can take one of numerous guided Wine and Food tours, embark on a self-drive exploration of the largest grape-growing region in the country or, for the more energetic, a wine cycle tour.
Take time to explore Blenheim’s parks – an entrée to the numerous acclaimed private gardens throughout the regions; many of which are showcased during the annual Hunters Garden Marlborough event. Visit Seymour Square in the middle of town, and nearby Pollard Park / Waterlea Gardens, with childrens’ play area, golf course (one of 8 in handy reach to visitors) and sweeping bedded gardens. Come here again after-dark to view the special-effects lighting that illuminates the entrance to the park.
If art and craft appeals visit the Marlborough and Millennium Galleries in central Blenheim and the many regional galleries and fascinating craft studios that stretch from the Awatere region in the south to the Marlborough Sounds in the north. Take home a piece of exquisite polished paua jewellery crafted by local artisans, a sculpted pot or painting from one of Marlborough’s talented artists and some fresh country preserves.
And immerse yourself in Marlborough’s fascinating history. People have lived here for many generations; explore heritage sites that tell their stories. Maori grew kumara along the coast, the storage pits still evident. You’ll find records of the early European whaling activity through to the colonial settlement of the region beginning around 1840. Step back in time in the streets of Beavertown (a replica of early colonial Blenheim) at Brayshaw Museum Park which includes comprehensive Vintage Car and Farm Machinery exhibits. Pick up a copy of the Historic Places brochure Welcome to Historic Marlborough at the Blenheim Visitor Information Centre to plan your itinerary.
In the Wairau Valley, west of Renwick on State Highway 63, rolling hills extend to the majestic grandeur and excellent tramping routes of the Richmond Forest Park and St Arnaud range. In this wide river valley, the braided Wairau’s cool clear water provides excellent fishing, alongside enchanting rural attractions.
In Blenheim, Renwick and the Wairau Plains area there are numerous accommodation choices - from luxurious hotels, motels, and homestays through to backpackers &riverside campsites. Dotted across the vineyard plains are lodges, B&B’s and cottages run by local vintners – who may share their latest vintage with you. From end-to-end you’ll find friendly hospitality, security and comfort, from hosts who love the Marlborough lifestyle.