Families

With its family-friendly beaches and rivers, cycling and walking tracks and island sanctuaries, Marlborough is a brilliant destination for family holidays.

Picnic and play on the Picton foreshore, do bombs off the rocks into the emerald waters of the Pelorus River, spot dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds or explore the region’s passion for aviation.

Create precious memories with your little ones and cast a line off the wharf at Waikawa, check out the underwater observatory and quirky eco-trail at Lochmara Lodge. Enjoy a real fruit ice cream, pick cherries or blueberries at the local orchards, or head to the colourful Marlborough Farmers’ Market for a taste of the region’s best produce.

Scenic Hotel Marlborough

For family friendly accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere, check out Scenic Hotel Marlborough. This 4-star plus hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim with some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. The in-house restaurant ensures the whole tribe will be fed and no one goes hungry!

Scenic Hotel Marlborough

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Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Let your imagination take flight, with a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Aviation nuts will delight in the rare collection of WW1 and WW2 aircraft and everyone else will appreciate the innovative and creative display that really captures the history and spirit of the time when these warbirds soared the skies.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

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Lochmara Lodge

Lochmara is tucked beside the water's edge in Lochmara Bay, has its own beach and is surrounded by the bush clad hills of the Marlborough Sounds. Daily feeding of the Kakariki (NZ native parrot) who will eat seed out of your hand, head to the sculpture trail, tucked in among bush overlooking the bay, in our gardens, and in every nook and cranny is sculpture to surprise and delight. We have a network of educational signs with the history of the region and interesting information on native plants, geology, conservation projects and much more on our character filled property of 10 acres. There is also interaction with endangered species breeding programs, an abundance of bird life, a bee display, and of course, wonderful views at every point. Suggestions: View the marine life below the surface in our Underwater Observatory Hand-feed the kakariki parakeets, NZ native eels, pigs and chickens and stingrays Explore the bushwalks around the property Follow the sculpture trail Lochmara Bay.

Lochmara Lodge

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Picton Water Taxis

If you’re looking for transportation from Picton to anywhere in the Queen Charlotte Sound, and back again, Picton Water Taxis should be your first port of call. This family owned and operated business provides a friendly and personal service, whether it’s a quick trip or multi-day adventure.

Picton Water Taxis

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Beachcomber Cruises

The mail has been delivered by boat for more than 150 years in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and Beachcomber Cruises is proud to continue the service today. Jump aboard their daily trip, and explore the extensive waterways and hidden coves, dropping off groceries and mail to the local residents as you go.

Beachcomber Cruises

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Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary

Nowhere demonstrates Picton’s community spirit and commitment to improving the natural environment like Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary. A short 10-minute boat trip from Picton, this 40 hectare mainland island offers amazing wildlife viewing, including tui, korimako (bellbird), korora (little blue penguin) and weta along a 2.7km circular walking track through regenerating native bush and old forest.

Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary

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Awapara Pearl Farm

For an authentic slice of Sounds life and insight into the inner workings of a paua farm, book a tour with Awapara Pearl Farm. Enjoy good old fashioned Kiwi hospitality, incredible vistas of the outer Queen Charlotte Sound and learn about this locally-grown industry, with an opportunity to purchase some of their stunning pearls.

Arapawa Blue Pearls

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Toastie Lords

They may be simple, but there’s a reason why the toasted sandwiches from Toastie Picton have become an instant classic since opening in 2021- they’re mind blowingly delicious! The ultimate in comfort food and the best thing to warm yourself up with after a day on the water, Toastie is a definite Picton must-do!

Toastie Lords

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Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

Plunge into the Pelorus River between Havelock and Rai Valley for a taste of pure New Zealand. The river is crystal clear and blessed with deep pools for swimming, and has the added attraction of being the location of the dwarves-in-barrels scene from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve offers numerous tracks, taking you through ancient forest and to the edge of the beautiful Pelorus River. Many of the tracks are wide and gentle, built to a standard suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Beyond these paths, and across the Rai swing bridge there are several other tracks to discover.

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve

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Learn more about Marlborough

at the official tourism website

Visit Marlborough

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Explore more of the Top of the South

Hurunui

From the rolling hills and wineries of Waiparato the rugged limestone cliffs along the east coast, the incredible vistas, relaxed vibe and warm Kiwi hospitality in Hurunui offers an opportunity to slowdown and make the most of your visit.

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Kaikoura

From the thrill of whale spotting by plane, trekking with llamas and visiting with seals, there are so many exciting opportunities to explore this unique area by land, sea or air. The waters in this part of the world are home to a vast array of marine mammals and birdlife which can be viewed from above and below the waves.

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Nelson Tasman

Nelson Tasman has an incredible arts and events scene, an exciting and diverse range of food and beverage producers and an indelible connection with the outdoors. Along with a vibrant array of fresh produce and artisan products, boutique wineries, craft breweries and award winning cider makers can all be found in this part of the world.

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West Coast

From its stunning coastline to the epic peaks of the Southern Alps, the West Coast is a place of stunning natural beauty and the ideal spot for a getaway. Whether the hills are calling your name, or you prefer a more laid-back approach to taking some time out, there is no better place to re-set, recharge and reconnect.

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