Overview

Blenheim, nestled in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, is the perfect base for wine lovers, sunshine seekers and gourmet explorers. With more than 30 cellar doors within cycling distance, boutique food producers, riverside walks and a vibrant weekend market, Blenheim offers a relaxed yet refined taste of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re on a vineyard tour or drifting down the Wairau River, this charming town delivers pure Marlborough flavour in every sense.

Food & Drink

  • Sauvignon Blanc tastings: Visit world-renowned wineries like Cloudy Bay, Wither Hills and Brancott Estate for tastings, tours and vineyard platters.
  • Wine & bike tours: Pedal your way between cellar doors on scenic backroads with bike hire from Blenheim-based operators.
  • Heritage bakeries & farmers market: Try artisan breads, olive oils and preserves at the Sunday Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
  • Gourmet dining: Book a long lunch at Arbour or Harvest for Marlborough’s best seasonal cuisine and wine pairings.

Adventure & Wilderness

  • Wairau Lagoons walk: An easy 3.5-hour loop with estuary wildlife, sweeping views and the historic SS Waverley shipwreck.
  • Kayaking the Ōpaoa River: Paddle gently past vineyards and parks right from Blenheim’s town centre.
  • Wither Hills Farm Park: Hike or mountain bike scenic trails with panoramic views of the plains, sounds and southern ranges.
  • Marlborough Sounds excursions: Head to nearby Picton (30 mins) for boat trips, bush walks and coastal adventures.

Highlights for All

  • Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: See rare WWI and WWII aircraft in immersive displays curated by Sir Peter Jackson.
  • Pollard Park & Seymour Square: Enjoy a picnic or stroll among floral gardens, fountains and mature trees in the town’s green heart.
  • Makana Confections: Watch handmade chocolates being crafted and sample gourmet treats in this Blenheim favourite.
  • Clos Henri’s Chapel Cellar Door: A beautifully converted chapel offers tastings from one of Marlborough’s boutique organic wineries.

Shopping

  • The Vines Village: A wine, food and lifestyle hub with boutique shopping, tastings and lakeside dining.
  • Local galleries: Browse Marlborough art at Millennium Public Art Gallery and independent studios around town.
  • Craft & design stores: Find artisan woodwork, ceramics and linen at Blenheim’s boutique retail lanes.

Photography

  • Vineyard sunrises: Capture rows of vines glowing under golden light, especially in autumn harvest season.
  • Omaka aircraft displays: Shoot dramatic museum exhibits with authentic lighting and historical set design.
  • Wairau Plains from Wither Hills: Panoramic shots stretch across farmland, townships and the distant Richmond Ranges.
  • Ōpaoa River reflections: Soft waters mirror trees, bridges and boats on peaceful mornings.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for vineyard picnics, outdoor dining and warm, sunny days.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Grapes are harvested, leaves turn golden and wine festivals abound.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Crisp days for scenic hikes, wine tastings by the fire and peaceful touring.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Vines awaken, gardens bloom and cellar doors reopen with fresh menus and releases.

Explore Nearby

  • Picton: A charming harbour town just 25 minutes north – gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and inter-island ferries.
  • Havelock: The mussel capital of NZ, great for seafood lovers and scenic cruises into Pelorus Sound.
  • Kaikōura: Head south for dramatic coastal drives, whale watching and marine wildlife tours (2 hours).