Things to do
From the bush covered hills and deep blue waters of the Sounds to the towering, snow-capped peaks that soar above
Kaikoura, Marlborough offers visitors to the region an exciting and diverse range of attractions and activities.| Blenheim & Wairau | Picton & Waikawa |
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| Havelock & Sounds | Awatere & Pacific Coast |
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| Kaikoura | |
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Marlborough's central location makes it an ideal base from which to explore some of the region's neighbours. To the west, Nelson is less than a two-hour drive away and Westport, on the South Island's West Coast, is about 3½ hours.
To the south, Christchurch is a vibrant city, currently restructuring and rebuilding to be a city of New Zealand's future, with new retail, dining and accommodation opening daily.
Inland from Christchurch is Hanmer Springs Thermal Resort where a few days can spent enjoying Hanmer's stunning alpine scenery and soaking in the hot pools. Ski the club field of Hanmer Springs and Mt Lyford, the South Islands sunniest ski field.
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.