Beautiful Blenheim and beyond
From popular pies to fascinating aviation exhibits, Brett Anderson discovers Marlborough’s hub is more than just a service town.
Excellent eating, drinking, biking, and forest and riverside walking combine with fascinating aviation around the compact hub of Marlborough’s wine country.
Best cafe
After a visit to get information and brochures from Blenheim’s i-SITE in the town’s former railway station, adjourn to Herb & Olive’s modern Scandi-influenced interior to plan your stay in the region. Fruit smoothies, organic Kokako coffee and kombucha on tap match well with a menu infused with wholefood and sustainable ingredients. Check out seasonal salads, which may include local figs, stonefruit or sweetcorn, or prepare for a big day with a brunch of smashed avocado, salmon, sauerkraut, and feta cheese on buckwheat toast.
Best restaurant
A regular inclusion in Cuisine magazine’s list of New Zealand’s top restaurants makes Arbour one of the nation’s best dining experiences. Arbour mixes modern surroundings with the best of seasonal local produce, such as slow-roasted lamb, or delicate clams with miso-roasted carrot, mandarin and chamomile. There’s a stellar selection of Marlborough wine, and hoppy goodness with local craft beers from Golden Mile, Renaissance and Boomtown.
Must-see sight
Beyond his day job, film-maker Sir Peter Jackson is also an aviation and war history buff, and his collection of restored combat aircraft at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is one of the world’s finest. Realistic 3D dioramas depict wartime scenes, and rare memorabilia showcases the often poignant stories of participants in the 20th century’s two defining conflicts. The Knights of the Sky gallery focuses on World War I, while the Dangerous Skies exhibition tells the story of World War II. Scenic flights, in a vintage Boeing biplane or a Soviet Yak-3 fighter, are also available.
Family favourite
There’s another Sir Peter Jackson link 45 minutes northwest of Blenheim at Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve. The blue-green Pelorus River starred in The Hobbit and shorter, family-friendly walking trails provide river views and access for swimming holes during warmer months. The 45-minute Circle Walk takes in the exciting Rai River suspension bridge and, at twilight, pekapeka (long-tailed bats) are often seen in the surrounding forest.
Active adventure
Providing balance to the indulgent pleasures of food, wine and beer on offer, Wither Hills Farm Park’s rolling terrain combines spectacular views with rambling walks and gentle hikes. For action on two knobbly wheels, the Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park has diverse Grade 1 and Grade 2 trails OK for casual weekend riders. Bikefit in Blenheim rents mountain bikes. Based at nearby Renwick, Bike 2 Wine also rents bikes, provides recommendations on wineries and restaurants, and offers a pickup service. Bike rental is complimentary for guests at its cosy Olde Mill House B&B.
Locals’ gem
Most Kiwis are partial to a good pie, and The Burleigh’s flaky pastry goodness is known across the region. Canny locals love the sweet pork belly or steak and blue cheese pies, but the spicy Jamaican lamb is also a winner. Yeasty baguettes, local sausages and cheeses are all on offer, making The Burleigh a great option if you’re planning a picnic or a barbecue. Try to avoid the lunch rush, when the queue can be out the door.
This article was produced with the support of Tourism New Zealand.