Location
Marlborough embraces the north east corner of the South Island, easily accessible by ferry, train, air, or road. Read more about transport options for the Marlborough region
Climate
Blenheim regularly claims the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, and has low rainfall. Each season in Marlborough has its distinct appeal: summer brings long warm days and stunning evenings; autumn promises clear, still days, a blaze of vineyard colour, and is one of the best times to explore; winter is short and may bring a spectacular rim of snow on the distant high country mountains; spring arrives with a sudden burst of cherry blossom and leaf, and the opening of gardens to view.
Average temperatures
Mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures
Summer (Dec-Feb): 23 degrees C (max); 12 degrees C (min) - 73/54 degrees F
Autumn (Mar- May): 19 degrees C (max); 7 degrees C (min) - 66/45 degrees F
Winter (Jun-Aug): 14 degrees C (max); 3 degrees C (min) - 57/37 degrees F
Spring (Sep-Nov): 18 degrees C (max); 7 degrees C (min) - 64/45 degrees F
For the latest weather readings, please visit this website:
www.scientificsales.co.nz
Clothing
Marlborough has a relaxed lifestyle; dress is generally casual and individual. Even in summer bring something light to cover up; a weather shift can create an unexpected cool evening.
For any outdoor adventures, forest walking or boating, remember the weather can change quickly. Carry a waterproof jacket and additional warm clothing.
Services
i-SITE Visitor Centres: in Picton and Blenheim near the railway stations. Satellite information centres in Renwick, Havelock and Seddon.
Banks
Most banks have branches in Blenheim, three in Picton open during business hours. ATMs in Blenheim, Picton. Most retailers and wineries accept major credit cards and Eftpos direct debit cards.
Police stations
at Blenheim, Picton and Havelock.
Medical
Doctors at medical centres in Blenheim and Picton, listings in blue pages of telephone book. After hours & emergency at Wairau Hospital in Blenheim. Rescue helicopter operates in emergencies in the Sounds.
Speed limits
Primarily 50km/h in urban areas, 100km/h open roads.
Food & Supplies
Supermarkets – Blenheim, Renwick, Picton, Havelock, Spring Creek; other grocery stores in all townships.
Fuel
Service stations throughout the province, most sell other supplies.Vehicle and boat storage in Picton, Waikawa and Havelock.
Local Transport
Taxis, shuttles and airport transfers in Blenheim and Picton.
Restaurants/cafés
A full range in Blenheim, good selection in Picton, Havelock, and other centres like Seddon and Kekerengu. Look for specialty Marlborough produce, gourmet foods, and local wines. Major fast food outlets in Blenheim.
Shopping
Good shopping selection in Blenheim township and suburbs. Most supplies and good craft shopping in Picton and Havelock.
Secondary & Tertiary Education
Malborough Boys College www.marlboroughboys.school.nz
Marlborough Girls College www.mgc.school.nz
Queen Charlotte College www.qcc.school.nz
Rai Valley Area School www.rai.school.nz
Nelson/Marlborough Institute of Technology www.nmit.ac.nz
Local government
Local government services, located on Seymour Square in Blenheim. You can also find more information at the Marlborough District Council website: www.marlborough.govt.nz