Things to do in Marlborough

Sitting at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, the  Marlborough region is like no other. The Marlborough Sounds, a giant maze of deep waterways that forge inland for almost 40km, is made up of four distinctly different Sounds - Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, Pelorus, and Mahau, and is brilliant for boating, fishing, diving, and wildlife viewing, including dolphin watching. The picturesque seaside town of Picton is known as the gateway to the South Island, with the ferry service that links the two main islands of New Zealand. Here, a friendly seaside culture creates confident and uncluttered cuisine. The area is also New Zealand’s largest wine-growing region and the home of world-renowned sauvignon blanc.

Best Attractions and free things to do in Marlborough

1. Heli-Fish Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds' rocky and inaccessible shoreline is impossible to reach unless you're in a helicopter and can land on a reef! You'll be hooked if you combine flying and fishing. These skilled pilots are also avid anglers, so you'll get the most out of your stay with us. We can pick you up from heli-friendly establishments in the vicinity or d-r-o-p you off at our heli-base at Nelson Airport. All necessary equipment is provided. The maximum number of passengers per helicopter is 5-6, depending on the weight of the passengers.

2. Kayaking

There are only a few locations in New Zealand in which you might experience pure nature while still being close to major tourist routes. One of these areas is Anakiwa, which is near Queen Charlotte Drive. When paddling, you may see rich subtropical rainforest in its regenerating state near to the shoreline, within arm's reach of the shoreline. There's enough to do with over 1500 kilometers of beachfront to explore. This activity is something you can do with anyone, and create long-lasting memories!

3. The Knights of the Sky & Dangerous Skies Exhibitions

Two different displays bring the history of aviation and the tales of the men and women who flew it to life. The first, Knights of the Sky, features Sir Peter Jackson's huge collection of World War One aircraft and unique memorabilia, as well as the talents of WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Dangerous Skies, the second exhibition, is also given the museum's signature theatrical treatment, and it takes you on a geographical as well as a historical journey.

4. Private tour and tasting at Clos Henri Vineyard

Clos Henri is a wine estate meticulously built and naturally operated by the legendary Sancerre wine growing family of Henri Bourgeois, nestled beneath the southern foothills of Marlborough's Wairau Valley. Clos Henri makes textured and graceful wines, capturing the powerful Marlborough character with the goal of revealing the individuality of the Clos Henri terroir and a true feeling of place in the wines, combining 10 generations of winegrowing know-how from the Bourgeois family. Coming on this family-friendly tour will give you a new appreciation for fine wine.

5. Marlborough Sounds

When traveling by ferry to the South Island, you're likely to have passed through the Marlborough Sounds. That was merely a smidgeon of it. The mountainous coastline region offers plenty of opportunities to explore in a number of ways. Take in the sights and keep an eye out for dolphins on a gorgeous boat trip, or walk or bike the renowned Queen Charlotte Track. Why not take a day excursion to one of the Sounds' hidden jewels, such as Lochmara, where you can swim with stingrays, Ship Cove, where you can immerse yourself in history, or watch the local birds on the pest-free island?

6. Drive Down French Pass

If twisty gravel roads don't scare you, the French Pass Road will not disappoint! The road begins in Okiwi Bay and passes through a section of native forest before opening out to open vistas of the French Pass Peninsula and D'Urville Island. Short treks along the road will lead you to vistas with views of whirlpools and calm, secluded beaches.

7. Museums

Visit one of Marlborough's numerous educational museums to broaden your horizons. Sir Peter Jackson developed and put together some action-packed displays of planes throughout history at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (79 Aerodrome Road, Blenheim). The Marlborough Museum (26 Arthur Baker Place, Blenheim) is another museum worth visiting if you want to learn more about the Marlborough region, from Maori history to winemaking.

8. Mountain Biking

Marlborough is a fantastic place to ride a bike. Biking is not just one of the most popular ways to go between vineyards, but it also provides lots of mountain biking thrills. The Queen Charlotte Track is a three-day wilderness track that is open to bikers from March to November. Between Picton and Havelock, the Link Pathway is a day nature hike with some outstanding views. Finally, Blenheim's Wither Hills Farm Park has a dedicated mountain biking park where you can get your downhill thrills!

9. Okiwi Bay

When driving through the gorgeous Rai Valley, getting to Okiwi Bay is just part of the adventure. Once you've made it over the hill, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the tranquil bay. Visit the Goat Hill Track for spectacular coastline views, or rent a kayak and paddle around in the harbor. Take the picturesque drive to French Pass to extend your stay.

10. Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

That's correct, Marlborough isn't only about the coast! The Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve is situated on the Pelorus River, a clear-water river with spectacular rock cliffs on both sides. The region is so beautiful that it was used in The Hobbit movies. To truly appreciate this magnificent region, take advantage of the treks, the camping, or go kayaking.

Top attractions in Marlborough

Private Tour: Discover the best of Marlborough on a personalized tour tailored to your interests. Explore the region's rich history, culture, and landmarks with a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable and flexible way.

Kayaking: Enjoy the beautiful Marlborough Sounds by kayak. Paddle through the calm waters, and take in the stunning scenery and wildlife of the area. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, this is a great way to explore the region's natural beauty.

Entry to the Knights Exhibition: Visit the Knights Exhibition, and step back in time. See a collection of old planes, and learn about the history of Aviation. This exhibition is perfect for history lovers and families with kids.

Heli-Fish: Experience the thrill of fly-fishing in the Marlborough Sounds with a helicopter landing. You'll be able to fish in some of the most remote and beautiful locations in the region, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area while catching fish.

Private Vineyard Tour: Experience the best of Marlborough's wine country on a private vineyard tour. You'll visit some of the region's top wineries and learn about the winemaking process from expert winemakers. Taste different varieties of wines and discover the region's wine culture in a private and personal way.

Best things to do with kids and childrens activities in Marlborough

Awatere Valley Gardens - Take the kids to Awatere Valley Gardens for a fun and educational outing. The gardens are home to an array of colorful flowers and plants, and children will love exploring the different paths and spotting different types of wildlife. You can also take a picnic and enjoy a family-friendly lunch in the beautiful surroundings.

Artistry of the Queen Charlotte Drive - Take the kids on a scenic drive through the Queen Charlotte Drive and enjoy the stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds. Along the way, you can stop at different viewpoints and take in the beautiful scenery. The drive is also home to lots of activities that kids will enjoy like bike rides, boat rides and more.

Best day trips from Marlborough

Awatere Valley Gardens - Take a stroll through the picturesque gardens of Awatere Valley, where you'll find an array of colourful flowers and plants, as well as a peaceful atmosphere that will make you feel like you're in a different world.

Artistry of the Queen Charlotte Drive - Enjoy a scenic drive through the Queen Charlotte Drive and take in the stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds. The tour starts in Blenheim and goes to the town of Havelock, an area with a lot of early history attached to it. Gold mining, Farming, and very early Maori settlement are some of the many tales to be told in the area.

Private Tour - Experience the best of Marlborough with a private tour, tailored to your interests and preferences. Whether you want to explore the local wineries or go on a nature hike, a private tour will give you a unique and personalized experience.

Kayaking - Explore the Marlborough Sounds by kayak and discover the hidden coves and beaches that can only be accessed by water. It's a great way to experience the beauty of the area and get some exercise at the same time.

Heli-Fish - Take a helicopter ride to a remote fishing spot, where you can catch some of the freshest fish in the region while enjoying the breathtaking views from above. It's a unique and exciting way to experience the Marlborough wilderness.

Best things to do near Marlborough

Scenic Hot Air Balloon Flight: Take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscape of Canterbury and enjoy the stunning views of the region from above. You'll get to see the beautiful mountains, lakes, and valleys of the region, and see the beautiful colors of the sunrise or sunset.

Aoraki/ Mt Cook scenic flights: This is a spectacular way to see the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest mountain. You'll fly over rugged mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows and get an unforgettable view of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

Guided Wildlife Kayaking: This is a unique way to explore the stunning coastal region of Canterbury by kayak. You'll have the opportunity to see the local wildlife and explore the beautiful coastal scenery of the region.

Skydiving Kiwis Ōtautahi: Experience the thrill of skydiving over the beautiful landscapes of Canterbury. You'll get an incredible view of the region as you free-fall and then enjoy a peaceful parachute ride back to the ground.

Evening Penguin Safari: This is a unique opportunity to see the little penguins coming ashore to their nesting colonies. You will go on a guided tour, watch them waddle up the beach and into their burrows, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them. It's a great way to learn about these adorable birds and see them in their natural habitat.