Marlborough sits at the top of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s one of the country’s sunniest regions and the home of the Sauvignon Blanc that helped put New Zealand wine on the world map.
But Marlborough is much more than wine.
The Marlborough Sounds offer sheltered bays, forested hills and winding coastline. The Queen Charlotte Track is one of the South Island’s finest walking routes. The seafood is fresh, local and hard to beat.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Marlborough?
The best things to do in Marlborough include wine tasting in the Wairau Valley, cruising the Marlborough Sounds, walking the Queen Charlotte Track, enjoying fresh seafood and visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
Wine Tasting in Marlborough
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest and most celebrated wine region. It’s home to more than 150 wineries and over 30 cellar doors open to visitors.
The region produces the Sauvignon Blanc that made New Zealand famous globally, alongside excellent Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and sparkling wines.
The most popular way to explore is on a self-drive or guided wine tour through the Wairau Valley. Well-known cellar doors include Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate, Hans Herzog, Saint Clair and Spy Valley.
Cycling between wineries along the Golden Mile is a wonderful option during the warmer months, while guided tours operate daily from Blenheim and can be tailored to suit any interest.
Explore the Marlborough Sounds
Just 20 minutes from Blenheim, the Marlborough Sounds are an extraordinary network of drowned river valleys made up of more than 1,500 kilometres of coastline.
Sheltered bays, native forest and crystal-clear water create one of the most beautiful coastal regions in New Zealand.
The best way to explore is by boat. Scenic cruises, water taxis and sea kayaking adventures all operate from Picton and Havelock.
The Sounds are also home to remarkable wildlife. Dolphins, seals and seabirds are commonly sighted throughout the year, and wildlife cruises operate regularly.
Walk the Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s premier walking experiences.
Stretching 73 kilometres from Ship Cove to Anakiwa, the track follows ridgelines above Queen Charlotte Sound and delivers spectacular coastal views for much of the journey.
Most walkers complete the track over three to five days, staying in lodges or accommodation along the route. Shorter sections can also be completed as day walks, with water taxis providing access to different parts of the track.
A luggage transfer service is available, making the experience accessible for travellers who prefer not to carry a full pack.
Enjoy Marlborough’s Seafood
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest producer of green-lipped mussels, and tasting them fresh from the source is one of the region’s great culinary experiences.
Havelock, at the head of the Marlborough Sounds, proudly calls itself the green-lipped mussel capital of the world.
Many visitors choose a seafood cruise through the Sounds, combining freshly steamed mussels, local wine and spectacular scenery in one memorable outing.
It’s a simple combination that works exceptionally well.
Visit Picton
Picton is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and one of the South Island’s prettiest harbour towns.
Most visitors arrive here aboard the Interislander ferry, but it’s worth spending time exploring beyond the terminal. Stroll the waterfront, browse local cafés, visit the Picton Foreshore and watch boats come and go from the marina. The town is also the main departure point for Marlborough Sounds cruises, wildlife tours and Queen Charlotte Track adventures.
With its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coastal setting, Picton is an ideal base for exploring the wider region.
How Long Should You Spend in Marlborough?
Two to three days is ideal for most visitors.
This allows time for:
- A day of wine tasting
- A cruise or wildlife experience in the Marlborough Sounds
- A visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
- A memorable seafood lunch or dinner
Many travellers combine Marlborough with Nelson Tasman to the west or begin their South Island journey in Picton after arriving on the Interislander ferry from Wellington.
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