Plan & Stay  >  Suggested Itineraries  >  Outdoor Adventure

Outdoor Adventure

Experience the many walks, bike rides and kayaking trips in Marlborough, from the winding waters of the Marlborough Sounds, to the iconic Wither Hills Farm Park.

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DAY 1

The Queen Charlotte Track

Arrive in Marlborough, and head out to Ship Cove by watertaxi, the start of the 72km Queen Charlotte Track. Walk, bike or kayak the track, or opt to complete a half or full day section with the aid of watertaxi transfers, and admire the stunning views from the skyline ridges. Enjoy a packed lunch on a remote beach and have your luggage transported to your accommodation by watertaxi. Stay the night at one of the many seaside lodges, B&Bs and holiday houses along the track, or for the really active people, carry your tent and sleep under the stars!

Tip: Most people bike the track over three days, or walk it in four days. There are numerous walks in Marlborough if this one isn't for you.

DAY 2

The Marlborough Sounds
Continue your journey along the Queen Charlotte Track by foot, bike or kayak, or for something different, swim with dolphins in the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds on a wildlife cruise. Stay overnight in Picton or a waterside lodge in the Marlborough Sounds....or that tent.

 

LASY DAY

Transfer to Blenheim, the biggest town in the Marlborough region. Have lunch at a winery restaurant or one of our more central establishments to refuel.

If you’re feeling particularly active, finish the day with a walk or mountain bike up the Wither Hills and check out the outstanding views across to Wellington from the top. Wither Hills Farm Park has a bundle of walking and biking tracks to choose from. For a casual stroll, walk or bike along the Taylor River - you can even take your pooch, just don't forget a lead!

Overnight in a local hotel or motel, or one of the many boutique B&Bs or vineyard cottages dotted throughout the wine region.

These are just ideas to get you started, you can easily spend a week or two here in sunny Marlborough.

See & Do

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Walks

Get to know Marlborough step by step, via walking tracks to alpine peaks, golden trails on working farms and native bush walks in the Marlborough Sounds.

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Biking

Mountain bike Marlborough’s epic high country trails and coastal ridges, road bike undulating routes at the edge of the sea, tour on long flat runs through vine-clad valleys or take the whole family biking along one of the region’s many rivers.

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On the Water

Explore 1500km of winding coastline, secluded bays, historic sites, marine reserves and island sanctuaries, fostering kiwi and other native species.

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Queen Charlotte Track

The 72km Queen Charlotte Track offers a rich history, incredible scenery and the freedom to walk or mountain bike without heavy gear with a network of water taxis available to transfer you to and from the track, and transfer your gear to your accommodation each night.

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Wildlife & Conservation

Endangered kiwi and various native birds including the King Shag thrive on predator-free islands in the Marlborough Sounds, as well as tuatara, gecko and native frogs.

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Heritage, Culture & Arts

Marlborough’s rich history runs wide and deep, from the earliest Polynesian settlers on Te Pokohiwi-o-Kupe/Wairau, Bar to the European pioneers who built towns and planted our first grapevines.

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Family friendly

Take the stress out of planning what to do with the whole family, and explore these options that will keep everyone happy. There's a place for everyone here.

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Your Marlborough Winter Guide

Winter in Marlborough promises clear blue skies, high sunshine hours and calm sparkling waters. The wildlife has come out to play, and the fireplaces are lit in the cellar doors. Settle in and we'll help you plan the perfect Winter trip to Marlborough.

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Discover Romance in Marlborough

Plan your trip with this list of unforgettable activities and exclusive accommodation options that are sure to put butterflies in your stomach, and have you reaching for those Do Not Disturb signs.

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Your guide to a Spring getaway in Marlborough

The place of wine and weather, wildlife and water - a pristine landscape ready for adventure. Whether it is an outdoor, family, flavour or romance story - there is something for everyone this Spring. What kind of story do you want to create?

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The Sounds of Marlborough

So, you've been following The Sounds of Marlborough and want to book some of the experiences for yourself? Well, you've come to the right place!