Family fun in Marlborough
There is lots of Family Fun to be had in Marlborough, from planes and cars, wildlife experiences in Picton and the Marlborough Sounds that even the adults will love! Check out the below suggestions to have a brilliant family holiday in Marlborough.
Explore the wonders Lochmara Lodge
Take a day trip to Lochmara Lodge in the Queen Charlotte Sound. Hand feed kakariki (NZ native parrot), enjoy the safe swimming beach with play equipment, kayak around the sheltered coastline and enjoy fabulous food in their café. Head into the underwater observatory to learn more about those who live under the sea.
Encounter wildlife in the Queen Charlotte Sound
Swim with dolphins or the playful fur seal in the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds and check out the bird sanctuary on Motuara Island. Discover native bridlife, marine life and other creatures - like the crawly Weta.
Visit EcoWorld Aquarium and Terrarium on Pictons foreshore
Visit the EcoWorld Aquarium and Terrarium on Picton’s foreshore. Discover native species and learn more about their natural habitiats. Most of EcoWorld's animals come from the Marlborough Sounds whose nearshore rocky reefs are diverse, dynamic, capable of endless surprise, cold, murky, dark and difficult to visit.
Visit the gardens at Pollard Park
Visit Pollard Park in Blenheim and feed the ducks, play in the playground explore the extensive gardens. Take a bat and a ball down and make the most of the outdoors, or head out on bikes, cycling through the parks extensive grounds.
Explore the rolling Wither Hills
Enjoy a long lunch at a local café and take a walk through the Wither Hills Farm Park. With tracks to suit any level of fitness, head up to the lookout pount or simply walk around the base of the hills. This is a working farm, so be mindful of the farm animals you may encounter.
Indulge yourself at Makana Confections
Watch confectionery masters at work at the Makana Confections boutique chocolate factory. Their hand-made chocolates are perfect for special occasions, or a special self-indulgent treat. The factory is set up like a cellar door where you can watch how they make their chocolates, taste a few samples and shop for delicious chocolates.
Linger at the Vines Village
Stop at the Vines Village in the middle of wine country where there is something for everyone including a family-friendly café and children’s playground. Check out whats happening at the village on their website, and enjoy local events, live music, delicious food and drinks.
Head out on a wine tour by bike
Tour the vineyards with Explore Marlborough. A choice of touring bikes for adults and children as well child seats and tow-alongs to cater for all the family. With cellar doors clustered within close distance to one another, discover local wines right where they're produced.
Discover history at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in Blenheim, which brings to life the heroes of World War One aviation with an unparalleled collection and dramatic lifelike scenes. The sets were created by world-renowned Wētā Workshop and Wingnut Films. Head over to their WW2 exhibition for an immersive look at the sides of the second world war.
Continue to Wellington
If you have started the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail in Marlborough, follow the trail north to Wellington. Take a 30-minute flight to Picton or sail between Wellington and Marlborough on board the Interislander ferry. To make the most out of your experience, upgrade to “Premium Plus”, an exclusive private lounge with complimentary beer, wine, tea, coffee and a mini buffet.
Travel North