Awatere & Coast
The Awatere Valley stretches from Weld Pass, about 10km south of Blenheim, southwards to Kekerengu on the coast. To the east is a strikingly beautiful coastline where Pacific rollers crash hissing and foaming on steep, sandy beaches or jagged rocks. To the west is a rugged hinterland rising to majestic Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku, the highest peak along the Kaikoura Ranges.
The Awatere Valley contributes a significant share of Marlborough's rural wealth. Its low rainfall is well suited to grazing sheep and cattle, and growing grain crops, peas, garlic, olives and walnuts. Several vineyards have been established in the area, taking advantage of the area's sweeter soils.
For visitors to the valley, there are a number of accommodation options available: bed and breakfast accommodation, farmstays, motels and backpackers all offer excellent places for visitors to stay.
The Awatere Valley is a unique and captivating region with a wealth of a wide range of activities and attractions for its visitors, including several outstanding gardens in the picturesque townships of Ward and Seddon where craft and gift shops are well worth a look.
The Awatere Valley is also the gateway to the vast historic Molesworth sheep station. The road through the station is open between January and February each year.
It's a Fact...
SHIP COVE
Captain James Cook arrived in Ship Cove in Queen Charlotte Sound on 15 January, 1770. The bay was named for its excellence as an anchorage, which allowed Cook to the careen his vessel, Endeavour. Ship Cove was the first place in New Zealand where the Union Jack was raised, although Cook did not proclaim sovereignty for England.
Captain James Cook arrived in Ship Cove in Queen Charlotte Sound on 15 January, 1770. The bay was named for its excellence as an anchorage, which allowed Cook to the careen his vessel, Endeavour. Ship Cove was the first place in New Zealand where the Union Jack was raised, although Cook did not proclaim sovereignty for England.