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...
THE FIRST VINES
Although Marlborough's current status as a wine producing region began in 1973 with Montana's plantings, the region's grape growing heritage actually began a century before. Pioneer winemakers David Herd and Charles Empson planted the first Marlborough vineyard in 1873. Empson died soon after the first harvest in 1875, but Herd went on to win prizes for his well regarded red muscatel wine. The winery survived until 1931.
Although Marlborough's current status as a wine producing region began in 1973 with Montana's plantings, the region's grape growing heritage actually began a century before. Pioneer winemakers David Herd and Charles Empson planted the first Marlborough vineyard in 1873. Empson died soon after the first harvest in 1875, but Herd went on to win prizes for his well regarded red muscatel wine. The winery survived until 1931.