Discover Marlborough this autumn – where rural valleys with world-class vineyards meet the sparkling waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. Savour fresh produce, sip wines, and enjoy the buzz of the harvest season. From scenic coastal drives to unforgettable culinary experiences, every day offers something exciting in our neighbour to the north! Don’t forget to pack your camera, as the autumn colours are unbeatable.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

There may be some new ventures since you last visited. Kaiaka Catering has moved location with a new look and feel but the same top-notch food. After almost a year-long closure, the restaurant at Wairau River has reopened – ‘Number 11’. This new dining hotspot, a collaboration between Wairau River & Sam Webb (Franks Oyster Bar & Eatery) offers a fun, shareable menu designed to complement Wairau River wines perfectly and encourage sociable dining. For small bites and impressive wine lists smack bang in the heart of Blenheim, be sure to visit Fidelio and Small Town Winery. Finish up with a sweet treat from Marlborough’s only locally made ice cream shop, Only Scoop, located in the quaint seaside town of Picton.

WINE TOUR VINEYARD

Enjoy lunch at Roots Gin Shack located at The Vines Village, a charming location with boutique shops and playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. Afterwards, join a guided wine tour to visit a handful of the 30-plus cellar doors of the region. Visit boutique wineries such as Hans Herzog Estate, family-owned gems like Bladen, Clos Henri, and Forrest Wines, and renowned wineries like Cloudy Bay and Wither Hills. Opt for a scheduled minivan tour, drive at your leisure in a private car, or enjoy the leisurely pace of a guided or independent bike tour. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be immersed in the heart of the vineyards, where the magic of winemaking unfolds. Travel tip: Visit in autumn, and you’ll experience the region filled with beautiful hues of orange and red.

EXPLORE THE SOUNDS

Drive to nearby Picton and board a boat cruise to explore the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Popular tours include dolphin watching, seafood cruises, wildlife spotting, or simply sailing through the Queen Charlotte Sound. For an active morning, how about joining a guided kayak tour? Or, if you’re up to covering some more distance, tackle a day walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, a renowned multi-day hike. The iconic Queen Charlotte Track, stretching from Ship Cove to Anakiwa, is a journey from past to present via panoramic ocean views, thriving native bush and encounters with the likes of weka, fantail, wood pigeon, and even seals.

NATURE’S CALLING

Autumn is an ideal time to get up close and personal with the endemic kārearea (NZ falcon). During your one-hour Private Tour, you’ll enjoy a small group experience with a knowledgeable member of staff to learn about these amazing falcons and the work that Kārearea Falcon Trust do. Private Tour visitors may be offered the opportunity for a Falcon Encounter. These encounters will give you the chance to enter their advocacy enclosure safely with a member of staff and experience a falcon landing on your gloved hand. Find out more about Private Tours and Falcon Encounters at kareareafalcon.org.

HISTORY & HERITAGE

Check out two incredible family-friendly exhibitions focusing on World War One and Two. The WWI collection features Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WWI aircraft and artefacts. New Zealand’s most respected cinematic and special effects craftspeople have created a dramatic aviation theatre with full-scale replica WWI aircraft – both static and flyable – presented in all their glory. The second exhibition, Dangerous Skies, brings to life stories from World War II. Featuring iconic aircraft such as the Spitfire and the unforgettable Stalingrad Experience. Find out more at omaka.org.nz.

TRY SOMETHING NEW

You’ve heard of the Abel Tasman and the Queen Charlotte Track, but what about the Nydia Track? The 27-kilometre rugged Nydia Track runs from Pelorus Sound across to Duncan Bay, with an overnight stop in Nydia. Most people get a shuttle back, so they don’t have to do the return walk/ bike. You’ll climb saddles through dense fern forest, catch a glimpse of Marlborough’s highest mountain, and pass through lush farmland – with only birds for company. Water access can be provided by a range of transport operators in the Marlborough Sounds. Check the Marlborough site for more information.

Stay inspired, plan your trip at marlboroughnz.com/explore

Your guide to 72 hours in Marlborough