New Zealand

The Marlborough region is situated on the north-eastern corner of the South Island, due west of Wellington.

Marlborough is New Zealand's largest grape growing and wine making region with 65 wineries, 290 grape growers and 4054 hectares in grape production. Nearly all of the wineries welcome visitors for tasting sessions and many have a cafe or restaurant on site. Sauvignon Blanc is the region's specialty, but wines made with Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are also highly acclaimed. Wine trail maps make it easy to find your way around the vineyards. Boutique Bed and Breakfast accommodation can be found throughout the wine growing area.

Before the wine industry came along, Marlborough's fame lay with its sounds - sunken valleys that are home to all kinds of wonderful bird and sea life, including terns, shags, blue penguins, dolphins and seals. Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds can be explored by boat - ferry, runabout, luxury charter launch or kayak. Admire the spectacular scenery where bush and mountains rise straight from the sea, and secret coves beckon you for a swim. Queen Charlotte Track is another way to appreciate the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. The 67km track passes through lush coastal forest, around coves and inlets, and along skyline ridges offering breathtaking views of the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.

Guided trout fishing and hunting tours are other ways to appreciate the beauty of the Marlborough landscape. The average brown trout in this region weighs between 1 to 3 kg, depending on the fishing ground.

Blenheim - the main town of Marlborough and a central base for vineyard visits
Picton - Marlborough's main commercial port and access to Queen Charlotte Sound
Havelock - the gateway to the Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds
Renwick - just minutes from Blenheim, another good base to explore the wine region
Wairau Valley - a place to stop en route to the Nelson Lakes National Park
Seddon - traditionally a farming area, now known for its craftspeople and gardens
Kekerengu - nestled on the East Coast on the way to Kaikoura with its own blend of attractions.

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