Marlborough & Nelson
topMarlborough Sounds
Located at the northeast tip of the South Island, this lacework of bays, ridges and coves is actually a series of valleys flooded by ocean. Much of the region is only accessible by sea, and begs to be explored by kayak. Inland, the scenic wilderness is a renowned place for hiking, crossed by numerous walking tracks such as the 44-mile Queen Charlotte Track. The main town within the Sounds is Picton, a pretty town with an historic waterfront that is the terminus for ferries crossing Cook Strait from Wellington.
topAccommodations
The Bay of Many Coves Resort
Located at the water’s edge on Marlborough Sounds, these unique, well-appointed 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments each feature a private balcony with uninterrupted views.
topWairau Valley
This is New Zealand’s largest and best-known wine region, famous for its distinctive Sauvignon Blanc. Blenheim, the biggest town in the region, is an important wine capital and hosts a major food and wine festival each year.
topAccommodations
Old St. Mary’s Convent
In the heart of Marlborough’s wine country, this former convent offers five luxury guest rooms with ensuite bathrooms and wonderful views of the surrounding vineyards.
topKaikoura
Boasting some of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastline, this region is known for its marine life, and offers fantastic opportunities to observe sperm whales, orca, and several species of dolphin. The name Kaikoura comes from the Maori words for “meal of crayfish;” the deep water and mix of cold and warm ocean currents makes the seas here particularly rich in nutrients, attracting fish as well as vast numbers of marine mammals. Along with whale-watching cruises, visitors can swim with dolphins, observe fur seals, go sea kayaking, or enjoy the scenery on a variety of walks. Seafood is a local specialty, of course.
topNelson
One of the oldest settlements in New Zealand, the seaside town of Nelson is popular today as a base for exploring Abel Tasman National Park. The city itself has its own charms, notably its galleries, local crafts, and nearby beaches. Nelson’s pleasant climate, unique raw materials and stunning surroundings have made it a major center for arts and crafts, particularly ceramics and glassware.
topSights
Suter Art Gallery
208 Bridge Street, Nelson
Tel: +64 (0)3 548 4699
Open daily 10:30am-4:30pm. Closed Good Friday, Dec 25, Jan 1.
Founded in 1899, this is the country’s third oldest art museum, and its extensive collection is renowned, including works from local watercolorist John Gully and oils by Sir Tosswill Woollaston, one of the founders of New Zealand’s modernist movement.
Nelson Market
Saturday 8am-1pm
Every Saturday, Montgomery Square fills up with over200 stalls selling organic produce, bread, cheese and other artisan foods, as well as local arts and crafts, plants, flowers, jewelry, designer clothing and a range of other goods.
topAbel Tasman National Park
New Zealand’s smallest national park offers golden beaches and dense coastal forests filled with wildlife. Many visitors explore the park via its one-way, spectacular Coastal Track, passing emerald-colored bays and granite outcrops – water taxis are available to take you back. If you want to stay longer, there are huts and campsites along the way (advance booking required). This is also one of the best places in New Zealand for sea kayaking. Other options include sailing, swimming, snorkeling, or hiking the uncrowded Inland Track.