Hiking
Getting out and enjoying the outdoors is a must while you are in Marlborough. There are so many great walking trails - from short hikes to day-long adventures. Check out the Snout Track, which ascends to a lookout point with stunning views of Queen Charlotte Sound.
There’s also the beautiful Waikakaho/Cullen Creek Walkway, which will take you through beautiful forests and historic gold mining sites. The Black Jack Track is another local favourite. It will take you up from Whites Bay to a gorgeous viewpoint on the edge of a bluff, with views of Port Underwood.
Shopping
The town of Blenheim is one of the best places in the region to enjoy a bit of shopping. In the pretty town centre you’ll find artisan food shops, creative souvenir stores, local boutiques and much more.
The town of Picton also has many excellent boutique and independent shops, where you can find unique New Zealand made gifts. Picton is also a great place to pick up what you need for your outdoor adventures, as there are several shops that offer outdoor wear, fishing and camping equipment, clothing and shoes.
Museums
If you’re interested in a glimpse into Marlborough’s past, there are many great museums in the region to explore. The Picton Museum has an impressive collection of over 2000 Maori artefacts, whaling items and antique textiles. The Marlborough Museum is also a great local historical museum, known for a comprehensive exhibit on Wine, a stunning pottery collection and displays about whaling, gold mining and Captain James Cook.
If you’re into classic cars, you’ll want to visit Omaka Classic Car Museum in Blenheim to see the impressive collection. Plus, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre has a fascinating display of planes throughout history, designed by Sir Peter Jackson.
Wine Tasting
The Marlborough wine region is responsible for the production of 77% of New Zealand’s wine, making this a dream destination for wine enthusiasts. The climate here is ideal for wine production, with hot and sunny days and cool nights that allow the grapes a longer ripening process.
The Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is especially praised, as it has wonderfully delicate flavours and aromas. Take a wine tasting tour through Renwick, Blenheim and Cloudy Bay to enjoy some of the best vintages this region has to offer (picture from MarlboroughNZ):