Wine, Wilderness and Sunshine /

Warm welcomes, world-class wines, midwinter Marlborough Sounds cruises and even a boutique book festival, all under splendid winter sunshine – Marlborough has everything you need for a wonderful winter holiday.

Marlborough has everything you need for a wonderful winter break

ONE OF MARLBOROUGH’S BEST-KEPT SECRETS is its brilliant winter weather, when bright blue skies frame snow-capped mountains – views best enjoyed over a gourmet vineyard lunch, preferably after a relaxed morning of wine tasting. Many iconic and boutique cellar doors remain open year-round, with plenty of opportunities for a winter wine trail at a selection of Marlborough’s finest.

Visit your choice of wineries independently, or join a guided tour for local, behind-the-scenes knowledge and personal contacts in the wine industry that will enhance your experience. With the 2021 vintage picked, this is a great time to chat with a winemaker, taste something totally new, and learn more about the industry from those who know it best. Of course, even Marlborough sees the odd rainy day, which comes with its own benefits: the perfect excuse to savour a Marlborough Pinot Noir, or perhaps a mulled wine, by a cellar door’s open fire.

In the Marlborough Sounds, winter days dawn with veils of mist over the sea’s surface, pulling back to reveal water as still as glass. This is the perfect time, before the first hint of a breeze ripples the water, to head out on a magical scenic cruise – or join New Zealand’s most unique mail run.

The Beachcomber Cruises ‘Magic Mail Boat Cruise’ from Picton and the Pelorus Mail Boat from Havelock visit jetties and properties in corners of the Sounds rarely seen by visitors.

Be sure to keep a keen eye out for marine wildlife, which is often more prolific in the winter months. Dolphins, seals and even the odd humpback whale, which migrate past the edge of the Marlborough Sounds through Cook Strait, may just make an appearance.

Alternatively, cruise to the historic Ship Cove/Meretoto from Picton and spend a sunny day exploring this sheltered bay favoured for centuries by Māori and, later, Captain James Cook.

Afterwards, cosy up in luxury accommodation right on the water’s edge, at Bay of Many Coves, treating yourself to a day spa and incredible local cuisine, followed by a relaxed paddle board.

In the stunning Endeavour Inlet, Punga Cove or Furneaux Lodge each offer a selection of rooms, from contemporary suites to family-friendly apartments. Both boast picturesque settings in which to recline and enjoy not only the expansive natural views and bush, but the clear star-filled nights.

For an active winter break, head onto the Queen

Charlotte Track, which is safe and accessible all winter, and opens in full to mountain bikers. With several entry points, you can experience the whole 72 km, or do a shorter section and celebrate with lunch at a resort, then take the water taxi home. Or, take advantage of the calm weather and head out in a kayak: rent yours in Picton, Anakiwa or Havelock.

For those seeking something truly special, why not hike to the highest peak in the Marlborough Sounds, Mount Stokes/ Pororangi. At 1,203 m, you may encounter snow on the rare subalpine herb garden on the plateau summit. You’ll be rewarded regardless, with views across the entire Marlborough Sounds and beyond.

For a better chance at getting your hands on some snow, drive a couple of hours from Blenheim to Rainbow Ski Area. This friendly field is perfect for all ages and stages of skiing and snowboarding, with the T-bar lift taking you to the top for incredible views over Lake Rotoiti.

While rugging up warm and experiencing the outdoors isn’t for everyone, Marlborough has every traveller covered and in July provides book lovers with something not to be missed – the 2021 Marlborough Book Festival, a weekend of top contemporary writers sharing their lives and works in conversation.

There is much more than simply world-famous Sauvignon Blanc to discover at the top of the South Island – it is a brilliant backyard to play, discover and stay in – at any time of the year.

For an active winter break, head onto the Queen Charlotte Track, which is safe and accessible all winter, and opens in full to mountain bikers.

Renowned as the first place of prolonged contact between Māori and Europeans, Meretoto/Ship Cove is a small bay of national significance. The sheltered cove is a picturesque spot in which to enjoy a picnic, explore and reflect.

Nestled between Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepuru Sound, from Ship Cove to Anakiwa, the Queen Charlotte Track in its entirety is 72 km and can be tackled as a whole over three days or broken into sections for day-trippers. By foot or bike, it is one for the bucket list!

FAR LEFT Exploring the Marlborough Sounds from the water is well worth it! Be it by kayak or cruise there is a solution for every type of traveller.

LEFT Famous for its wine, no trip to Marlborough would be complete without a tipple or two. A number of wineries and vineyards, like that of Wairau River, combine this with the ambience of a fire in winter, ensuring this is a destination for all-year-round adventuring and enjoyment.