Motivated Marlborough
If you want to support quake-affected Marlborough, Lauraine Jacobs has a few ideas.
The Kaikoura earthquake dramatically rattled the Marlborough region, but resilient locals and the hospitality industry have pulled together to minimise the effects. They are determined to make the best of the situation and attract tourists who can enjoy the fine food and wine of the area.
The region has a wealth of food and wine experiences, safe and easy bike trails, the Queen Charlotte Track for the adventurous hiker and a network of boat trips to the Marlborough Sounds that make it a great place for holidays and getaway weekends.
Here are a few suggestions for accommodation and eating in the region.
STAY LAURELLA COTTAGE, RAPAURA
Stunning renovated 1850s cottage in the centre of the beautiful Upton Oaks garden.
laurella.co.nz BELL TOWER ON DOG POINT, HAWKESBURY
Understated luxury, kept a little below the radar but perfect for couples or a group of up to eight who can eat in with fine local catering. Fine views overlooking the Wairau Valley and a brisk walk to the owners’ winery, Dog Point.
www.thebelltower.co.nz FOSSICKERS HUT, WAKAMARINA
Very cool pioneer-style accommodation.
www.canopycamping.co.nz/listings/ fossickers-hut-marlborough HOTEL D’URVILLE, BLENHEIM
This boutique hotel has quirky but comfortable rooms in the centre of town and a newly refurbished bistro.
www.durville.com RAETIHI LODGE, KENEPURU SOUND
Reached by boat, this elegant lodge with a fully catered dining room is a great hideaway.
raetihilodge.co.nz EAT ARBOUR, FAIRHALL
A menu sourced from local, seasonal fare is created daily by rising star chef Bradley Hornby and is matched
by superb service and a fine local wine list at this rural restaurant. Bookings advised.
www.arbour.co.nz SCOTCH WINE BAR, BLENHEIM
Tasty small-plate dining in the centre of Blenheim, with an extensive and eclectic by-the-half-glass list.
www.scotchbar.co.nz VINES VILLAGE CAFE, RAPAURA
Boutique shopping, large sprawling outdoors, simple, tasty dishes, good beer selection, Whitehaven wines on site. Also home to Alex Fulton Design.
www.vinesvillagecafe.co.nz ROCK FERRY, RAPAURA
Garden vineyard restaurant located in the middle of Rock Ferry Vineyard.
www.rockferry.co.nz SAINT CLAIR VINEYARD KITCHEN, RAPAURA
Platters and garden-fresh lunches at this popular casual cafe.
www.saintclair.co.nz
A visit to the Marlborough Farmers’ Market, open Saturday mornings at Blenheim’s
A&P Showgrounds, is recommended.
marlboroughfarmersmarket.co.nz
For more information on what to do and where to go, see marlboroughnz.com