Blenheim
Blenheim is the largest town in the Marlborough region at the top of the South Island. It is a short drive away from Picton and 1½ hours from Nelson. Wellington is a 3 hour ferry crossing away through the Marlborough Sounds and across the Cook Strait. Blenheim is nestled beneath a protective mountain range which keeps the temperatures high in the summer months. The climate is generally mild and provides perfect conditions for the wine growing the Marlborough area is famous for. There are a number of wineries within a short drive of each other and many are open for tastings. The most well known wine produced is Sauvignon Blanc, although Marlborough also grows Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer grapes as well. The countryside is flat making exploring the wineries by bike an attractive option. Blenheim holds the Wine Marlborough Festival every February to celebrate the wine industry. Gourmet food features in Blenheim and is present in every corner of the local cafes and restaurants. The Farmers Market is held every Sunday morning offering fresh local produce and tastings. There are a wide range of activities in and around the town. The Marlborough Sounds is a nature lover’s paradise with superb walks, great fishing and the chance to swim with the dolphins.
Summer visitors can visit a high country station on a guided tour. Canyoning, mountain biking, abseiling and four wheel drive guided adventures are popular activities. The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre has a comprehensive collection of aircraft and history on show. The accommodation in Blenheim is full of charm and character and found in a good choice of bed and breakfasts, home stays and farm stays. The motels are spacious and friendly. The gardens of Blenheim are a beautiful sight, with some private gardens open to the public by appointment. On the outskirts of town Brayshaw Historic Park has recreated the villages of the pioneer days with colonial buildings and farm machinery on display. Explore the arts and crafts shops in town or the factories and outlets throughout the area. Stone fruit in the summer season is found at the orchard stalls along the country roads of the region. Many of the orchards also let you pick your own fruit. Visit the Museum and Art Gallery for the history of Blenheim and local artworks. Take a walk in the Wither Hills behind Blenheim for some spectacular views.