Embark on a delightful journey through Te Waiharakeke / Blenheim, where culinary delights and cultural adventures await. Known as the gateway to the Wairau Valley, Blenheim offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and unique experiences for an unforgettable getaway. We’ve listed the top-tier places to dine, relax and bask in the beauty of Blenheim.
Wine and Dine
Begin your Blenheim getaway with a leisurely breakfast at Herb and Olive Cafe. Enjoy a delicious all-day breakfast menu, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients in a bright and airy setting. From here, take a short stroll across to Seymour Square to admire the colourful blooms of the garden and read about the history behind the War Memorial Clock Tower. After a morning in the centre of Blenheim, it’s time to set off in your rental car for a road trip through the Marlborough Wine Region. The TeTauihu-o-te-waka / Marlborough wine region is the country’s largest wine region, encompassing the Awatere Valley, Southern Valleys, and Wairau Valley. Cloudy Bay Vineyards is one of the region’s most revered wineries and is just a 12-minute drive from Blenheim. With Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay being the focus here, delve into a tasting or tour at the Cloudy Bay cellar door. Plus, there are a range of private experiences available if you’re looking to elevate your experience even more. After a tasting, settle in for lunch at Jack’s Raw Bar, where locally caught oysters and clams are on the menu. Always remember to appoint a designated driver when indulging in alcohol on your road trip.
Unique History
Following your tour of the Marlborough wine region, head back to Te Waiharakeke to explore the city. The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is one of Blenheim’s top attractions, with WWI and WWII aircraft on display. Here, you can browse the ‘Knights of the Sky’ and ‘Dangerous Skies’ exhibitions which feature mannequins made at Wellington’s Weta Workshop, original aircraft, and rare memorabilia. Feeling adventurous? Book in for a joy flight onboard a unique aircraft and discover the Marlborough region from above. If you happen to visit during the Classic Fighters air show, it’s a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. If you’re more interested in local art and history, visit the Marlborough Museum to discover the story behind the region through archives and collections. The Wine Exhibition outlines the history of the region’s viticulture, the Victorian Rooms display replica 19th-century rooms, and there are an array of artworks and pottery collections to browse. For dinner, discover fine dining at Arbour or savour a meal at Raupō Cafe before ending your first night in Blenheim.
Experience the Marlborough Sounds
Start your second day in Te Waiharakeke with a quick coffee and pastry from a locally loved cafe. Watery Mouth Cafe is an award-winning spot renowned for its selection of drinks and vibrant menu. If spending a beautiful morning on the South Island waters on board a private yacht sounds like your idea of fun, you’re in luck. Enjoy the refreshing feeling of a luxury cruise across the Marlborough Sounds for an unforgettable experience. The Marlborough Sounds are a collection of sunken valleys and inlets on the North end of the South Island, with deep blue waters set against verdant mountains to create stunning landscapes. Opt for a cruise with a gourmet lunch and wine onboard to experience the bliss of being on holiday. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot wildlife like orcas, bottlenose dolphins and kawau pāteketeke / king shags while cruising through the Sounds. Bring your camera along to capture the stunning scenery and memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Local Delights
After a cruise through the Marlborough Sounds, drive your Hertz rental car from Blenheim to the coastal town of Picton. Explore the town and settle down for a light meal at Gusto Cafe before returning to Blenheim for the rest of the day. Relax with a stroll through the city - Pollard Park is the town’s premier park, with a rose garden, duck pond and walking trails to roam and admire the scenery. If you’re in the mood to go shopping, wander down Market Street and browse the giftware shops and clothing boutiques that line the town’s main street. For dinner, discover the flavours of Brazil through traditional food like Pão de Queijo, Prawn Moqueca and Pudim at Gramado’s Restaurant and Bar. Gramado’s blends the beauty of Brazilian cuisine with warm New Zealand hospitality in an intimate setting, giving you the perfect send-off for your 48 hours in Blenheim.
From gastronomic delights to cultural exploration, a holiday in Blenheim provides a wealth of opportunities for discovery and indulgence, and travelling with a Hertz hire car offers you the freedom to discover the area at your own pace.
