Marlborough Wine Country
There is simply no better way to enjoy the sights and fine wines and foods of Marlborough than with Marlborough Tour Company. Check out their Gourmet Tour on Sunday May 15 for a relaxed day of wine, beer and chocolate tasting with full transport and delicious lunch included.
Revelry
Continue celebrating your amazing achievement with us at the Vineyard Half after-party – the only place to party in Blenheim! Located in central Blenheim, tickets cost $80 and include a beautiful Makana truffle and glass of Saint Clair bubbles on arrival, plus a generous choice from a range of food, dessert and a live band guaranteed to get you and your friends on the dance floor. This is an R18 event from 6pm-late. Get your tickets now.
The Taylor Pass Honey Company
One of our amazing sponsors, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a taste of their golden goodness made right here in Marlborough as you jive your way around the Vineyard Half course. If you’re in Marlborough on a weekday, we definitely recommend taking the short and picturesque drive up the Taylor Pass Rd to visit their buzzing honey hub. Check them out online here.
Marlborough Farmers’ Market
With terrific, seasonal, locally grown produce and artisan products, friendly locals, delicious coffee, freshly cooked breakfast and live entertainment, the Marlborough Farmers’ Market is popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s a wonderful spot to soak up the sun and the atmosphere and catch a glimpse of real Marlborough.
Thomas’s
Another of our awesome sponsors, Thomas’s is the top of the south’s only family owned department store and is something of an institution here in Marlborough. With all the latest men’s and women’s designer clothing from Ketz-ke, Ted Baker, Kate Sylvester, Ben Sherman and Mons Royale, plus a fantastic range of gifts and homeware – there’s something for everyone at Thomas’s. This year they’re even opening on Sunday especially for you – so do head along and check them out, or shop online.
Wineries
You couldn’t come to Marlborough and not visit some of the cellar doors and restaurants dotted around the region. We are New Zealand’s largest grape growing district, and the producer of the world’s best sauvignon blanc – the variety that put New Zealand on the world wine map. There are many options for wine tasting and lunch – including Saint Clair Family Estate – we do recommend booking in advance.
Walking and biking trails
OK, so we know you’ve just covered 21 kms and the thought of walking one extra unnecessary step is laughable – but we know how much you love getting out and about and wanted to share some our much-loved tracks and trails with you. The Wither Hills Farm Park on Blenheim’s back doorstep is hugely popular with locals, boasting walking and biking trails for people of ages and abilities. The Snout Track or Bob’s Bay is popular in Picton, as are the Picton Mountain Biking Tracks. The first 11km of the Link Pathway from Ngakuta to Shakespeare’s Bay has been completed offering world-class views over the sounds. Who could forget the Queen Charlotte Track from Anakiwa, while Cullen Point near Havelock is also a good option, as is the beautiful stroll to the Emerald Pools on the Pelorus Track – where the dramatic barrel/river scene in the Hobbit was filmed.
Makana Confections
Visit the Makana chocolate factory and shop, watch their chocolate makers in their work, taste their boutique chocolates and browse for gifts and treats of all things chocolate. Likewise you can purchase their goodies online – perfect with Mother’s Day coming.
Picton and Havelock
Live like a Marlborough local and take a stay-cation in the lovely little seaside towns of Picton and Havelock. With shopping, arts and crafts, a range of lovely little eateries and views to die for, Havelock and Picton is the perfect way to relax and unwind. Or for the more adventurous – get in touch with our awesome sponsors Wilderness Guides for water taxi transfers and guided walks or kayak trips. Wilderness Guides have once again provided us with an unbelievable spot prize – A 5 day independent boutique walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, all meals and water taxi transfers taken care of, and staying in luxury accommodation.
Yoga
Nothing beats a good stretch after a big run or walk, so you’ll be pleased to know we’ve managed to track a yoga class down for you. Head along to Yoga with James and Carmena at the Marlborough Vintners Hotel on Sunday from 10-11am. $15 per class – byo mat (some are available if you forget). Relax with a coffee in the hotel’s beautiful garden bar afterwards, or head across the road to explore the Vines Village. Don’t forget, we’ve got pre-race warm up yoga and post-race warm down yoga and massage at the Vineyard Half hub – a great way to get in the zone and treat those muscles after all their hard work.