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As well as offering the ultimate city experience, Wellington is surrounded by stunning regions, making the 'Capital of Cool' the perfect base for your New Zealand escape.

Just a short flight or scenic ferry trip on the Interislander will take you from Wellington to Marlborough, a region of spectacular scenic beauty. The region is home to some of the finest New Zealand landscapes, from the stunning Marlborough Sounds to magnificent high country and the wild Kaikoura coastline.

In the heart of all this, are the Wairau and Awatere valleys – home to world famous Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc plus many more varietals that make the region New Zealand’s premier wine producer.

Here are some suggested itineraries to make the most of your Marlborough experience:

     Day 1 – Marlborough Sounds

• Explore the beautiful sounds by boat and on foot. Join an early morning cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound to Motuara Island. Take the 15 minute walk to the top of the bird sanctuary island for outstanding views. Continue over to Ship’s Cove historic area and then walk the first section of Queen Charlotte Track to Resolution Bay.

• Eat a packed lunch on the beach, and catch an afternoon water taxi to Torea Saddle. Transfer over the saddle for an afternoon guided sea kayak in the tranquil Kenepuru Sound.
  
  
  Day 2 – Marlborough Gourmet

• To make the most of this stunning wine region, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, join a wine tour or plot your own route with the Marlborough Wine Map.

• You might choose to relax on a horse and carriage tour, go in style by helicopter or pedal your way through the vineyards.

• Rest over lunch in a vineyard café and end your day in a gourmet restaurant among the vines. Spend the night in a quirky Blenheim hotel, or be pampered in one of the many boutique bed and breakfasts or vineyard cottages throughout the wine region.

• If you’re in Marlborough on a Sunday in summer, don’t miss the Farmers’ Market for a collection of produce from throughout the region and a gourmet cooked breakfast from what’s on offer that day.