Taste Bud Sensation
This itinerary is for the foodies. If you want to experience world famous Marlborough wine, beer and gin and pair it with fresh local seafood for the ultimate ocean-to-plate, wine and food experience - then you have come to the right place.
DAY 1
Not just a Wine region, try the Gin & Beer too!
Start your day exploring a selection of over 30 cellar doors on a tour of Marlborough’s wine trail. Compare wines from throughout the region, learn about the history of wine in Marlborough and visit boutique family producers as well as recognised international brands. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, and pair the wine with fresh local produce to create the ultimate match made in Marlborough.
For those who wanting to spread their wings further, check out the breweries dotted around the region and while you are here, you must try our award winning Gin & Spirits. If you are wanting something more active, join a wine tour by bike guided trip, or hire one and cycle your way around the Marlborough region.
Relax that evening in a local hotel or motel, or one of the many boutique B&Bs or vineyard cottages placed throughout the wine region.
DAY 2
Hidden Surprises
Spend the morning visiting some of Marlborough’s boutique food producers. Sample their delicious products, whether it be olive oil, meat, honey, herbs, award-winning cheeses or summer fruits – there is sure to be something to delight. Enjoy lunch at your choice of vineyard restaurants, or a cafe or restaurant in Blenheim before spending the afternoon sipping cocktails as a pre dinner treat.
Alternatively, explore the Marlborough Sounds on a seafood cruise. Visit a King Salmon farm, learn about mussel farming and sample the freshest of salmon and mussels matched with a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Opt to stay in a watersedge resort or holiday house in the Marlborough Sounds, or relax at one of many accommodations in Picton or Havelock.
NOTE: Seafood cruises are available from Picton or Havelock.
DAY 3
Options Galore
Continuing on the food and wine theme and explore more of Marlborough’s wineries, comparing flavours of the same varietal from across the region. If you're in Marlborough on a Sunday, don’t miss the Farmers’ Market for a collection of produce from throughout the region. In the heart of the wine region you'll also discover Makana, a boutique chocolate factory, with the most amazing selection of sweet treats. Further on, be sure to stop at The Vines Village, home to a collection of boutique stores, The Gin Room and family friendly activities. If a break from food and beverage is needed, visit local gardens and artists’ studios, or be inspired by the heroes of WWI and WW2 aviation at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre made possible by film director Sir Peter Jackson’s Wingnut Films and Weta Workshop.
These are just ideas to get you started, you can easily spend a few weeks here.
Map
More Food & Drink
Marlborough’s high sunshine hours and unspoiled environment nurture produce with the finest flavour.
World class Sauvignon Blanc, matched with the freshest seafood, crisp, flavour-filled local produce and a drizzle of Marlborough olive oil...
When visiting Marlborough, why not take yourself on a foodie adventure and taste locally grown Greenshell™ Mussels. Seventy percent of New Zealand’s Greenshell™ Mussels are grown here in the Marlborough Sounds as this environment provides a perfect growing space for them.
Like biking and wine? Look no further.
As you explore this breathtaking landscape, consider joining a captivating Marlborough wine tour or curate your own trail through the region's stunning vineyards. With an array of options available, it's an experience you wouldn't want to miss during your visit!
Marlborough may be known for it's wine, but flourishing within the Marlborough region, craft gin has made its way to being one of the most preferred ways to delight the taste buds. Marlborough’s gin industry is thriving with new Marlborough made craft gin and tasting experiences.
