Marlborough Airport (also known as Woodbourne Airport) serves the city of Blenheim and the world-famous wine region of Marlborough in the north east of New Zealand’s South Island.
Marlborough Airport links Blenheim to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Nelson and other destinations with regular flights. Stepping out of the terminal, you’ll be delightfully greeted by one of New Zealand’s self-proclaimed “sunniest towns”, boasting an average of close to 2,500 hours of sunshine a year. The airport is a 10-minute drive away from the centre of Blenheim and its many wineries, and is the gateway to scenic drives and outdoor adventures in the South Island. To take full advantage of everything the region has to offer, a comfortable hire car is essential – and Hertz has you covered.
A region abundant in award-winning wineries
Vineyards were first planted in Marlborough in 1973, and today more than 30 wineries are within driving distance of Blenheim, among them are some of the most famous wines on the planet. It’s no wonder the region produces 75 per cent of the country’s wine; the combination of warm, sunny days and cold nights in this region produce wonderfully fragrant and crisp white wines.
Marlborough is renowned for its world-beating Sauvignon Blanc, but you’ll also find amazing Chardonnays, Pinot Gris’ and Pinot Noirs. As well as some fantastic cellar doors, Blenheim is home to numerous gourmet restaurants.
Amongst the most beautiful is the Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen, just a quick ten-minute drive from the heart of Blenheim. There are indoor and outdoor dining options here, with cosy fires lit in colder months and warm breezes to enjoy under the vine trellis in warmer months. There is a constantly changing seasonal menu providing a selection of the best of local produce and an extensive cellar door offering.
The Villa Maria Estate Winery is “New Zealand’s most awarded Winery” and it is most famous for crisp Sauvignon Blancs. The Marlborough vineyard is a truly spectacular place to visit, with rolling hills of vines and an impressively regarded dining experience.
These are just a couple of the many wineries along the Marlborough Wine Trail – from some of the biggest names in the business to small boutique wineries, you’ll be delighted to discover this region has it all.
With its world-famous wineries, it’s easy to overshadow the multitalented Blenheim’s delectable craft beer scene. For those that are more partial to a fine brew, Dodson Street beer garden is a beer drinker’s paradise, with the largest selection of craft beers in the country.
Those with a sweet tooth will not want to go past Makana Confections, a boutique handmade chocolate factory situated within the Marlborough region’s multitude of wineries. Indulge yourself with a free tasting and take a peek at the chocolatiers at work.
For a taste of local organic produce in the city, a trip to the Marlborough Farmers’ Market is a must. Situated on Alabama and Maxwell Roads, the Sunday markets are full of a wide range of local and seasonal produce and great tasting coffee.
Must-see Blenheim attractions and more
Five kilometres out of town is a haven for aviation enthusiasts, with the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre boasting an impressive array of WWI and WWII aircrafts, along with plenty of fascinating memorabilia. The museum’s patron is Peter Jackson (of Lord of the Rings fame), and his theatrical flair can be seen in the interactive displays and thoughtful curation on show here.
For some real old-world charm, visit Upton Oaks Garden – proclaimed a Garden of National Significance; it matches the style of the beautiful 1911 Villa on the grounds. There is a large formal 17th century style knot garden that is an absolute delight to discover, along with an olive grove and many other beautiful features. There’s even an 1850s era cottage guesthouse if you can’t bear to leave straight away.
For a dose of culture, learn about the region’s Maori and early European settler history at the Marlborough Museum in Brayshaw Heritage Park in Redwoodtown. The museum is home to a number of inspiring historic collections, including its popular wine history exhibit, The Wine Exhibition, a permanent exhibit detailing the Marlborough region’s early beginnings and how the industry has transformed through the years.
A trip to Wither Hills Farm Park is your ticket to intimate views of the entire Blenheim and Wairau Valley region. With multiple walking and cycling trails along this 1,100-hectare working cattle and sheep farm, you can take in the sights of the city, the Richmond Ranges, Wairau Valley Lagoons, and the agricultural lifestyle.
Take time to explore what lies beyond Blenheim
Marlborough Airport is also the starting point for many outdoor adventures. Less than an hour’s drive from the airport is Mount Richmond Forest Park, an easily accessible spot where you can enjoy short riverside walks, picnics and overnight camping.
For the more adventurous, St Arnaud is just over an hour’s drive away along State Highway 63. This photogenic waterside village is your entrance to Nelson Lakes National Park and the Southern Alps. Enjoy easy lakeside strolls and more challenging mountain hikes, with the three-day Lake Angelus loop and five-day Travers-Sabine Circuit as particular highlights. Blenheim is a place that delights all the senses, and with your hire car you’ll be in the perfect position to make the very best of your time here.
