Welcome to New Zealand's wine capital!
For visitors to the region, Marlborough is an exciting vacation destination that provides an exhilarating and varied range of attractions and activities. From enjoying a glass of our world-famous Sauvignon Blanc at one the region's numerous wineries to swimming with dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds, the region offers a multitude of recreational delights.
If you enjoy sea-kayaking or scenic boat tours, visits to formal gardens or hiking through native bush, Marlborough is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the finer things in life. For the eco-tourist and nature-lover, the region provides numerous opportunities to see some of our wildlife close up. Dolphins, seals, shags, blue penguins abound throughout the Sounds and along the coastline to Kaikoura. Native birds such as tui, bellbirds, fantails and the native kingfisher can be encountered throughout the region, especially in areas covered in native bush.
It's a fact - did you know this about Marlborough?
BEAVERTOWN
Because of its frequent floods and nearby swamps, Blenheim was once known as Beavertown. In February 1868, three days of heavy rain at Blenheim and in the surrounding hills caused major flooding. The rainfall for the three days at Blenheim was 104.5mm, causing the Wairau, Taylor and the Omaka rivers to become swollen. A Presbyterian church still being built floated downstream to lodge against the Omaka bridge.
Because of its frequent floods and nearby swamps, Blenheim was once known as Beavertown. In February 1868, three days of heavy rain at Blenheim and in the surrounding hills caused major flooding. The rainfall for the three days at Blenheim was 104.5mm, causing the Wairau, Taylor and the Omaka rivers to become swollen. A Presbyterian church still being built floated downstream to lodge against the Omaka bridge.
Dining Out
Marlborough's gourmet paradise sets the scene for visitors to explore the region's produce. From award-winning wines and fresh produce to a vast array of epicurean delights, Marlborough offers a tasty treat.
Places to Stay
From water-side retreats tucked away in secluded settings to hotels, motels and backpacker hostels, Marlborough has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different needs and price ranges.
Swim With Dolphins
Swimming side-by-side with dolphins and viewing them in their underwater world is the adventure experience of a lifetime. Join an eco-tour and see the very best of the Marlborough Sounds.
Pic of the Week