For the 90% of you who are coming to the Saint Clair Vineyard Half from outside Marlborough and across the world, we’ve put some info together on getting to the best little province in the best little country in the whole world, in the whole universe (we’ve been taking lessons in hyperbole from an 8-year-old).
Marlborough 101: How to Get Here The Insiders Guide
Auckland: You have no idea how much we love you. And we know you love our wine. Best tip? Grab four of your best mates, fly to Nelson for $118 return, jump in a car from Omega Rentals (they’ve got a special rate for race-goers) and cruise over the hill. By our calculation, that should save you around $270, which you can now spend on wine and food, that’s WINE and FOOD! And If you want to fly directly to Blenheim, there are still plenty of seats available with Air New Zealand. OMEGA RENTALS DEAL: Omega Rentals are offering race goers a 10% discount on rental cars booked online or over the phone. To do this, use the promo code vinehalf when you’re booking. This offer is available from all Omega Rentals locations…
Canterbury: The main road north is now open! We’ve been hearing a bit about the redesign Mother Nature has made on the coastal road, and we’ve heard it’s awesome. So grab a car-full of your besties, jump in the car and cruise on up. Don’t forget to check in with Kaikoura, who are well and truly OPEN, and have been so resilient this past year.
Lower North Island:
You’ll love getting to and from the Vineyard Half on one of Bluebridge’s two ferries. If you haven’t sailed with them before – you’re missing out. They sail downtown Wellington to the Sounds 50 times a week. This must-do journey takes about 3.5 hours during which you’ll see some of the world’s most breath-taking scenery through the Marlborough Sounds. Bluebridge is famous for their warm Kiwi hospitality and better value fares every day.
They’re giving you and your supporters a whopping 35% off any of their most flexible, 100% refundable and changeable passenger and vehicle fares. So you can take your own car to make life easier or walk-on and grab an Omega rental on the other side. Your ticket includes free WiFi and movies plus you’ll earn Airpoints Dollars™. Simply use promo code SAIL2VINE when you book online or call 0800 844 844. Valid for bookings from 1 September 2020 to 13 May 2021 for travel from 6 to 13 May 2021. Terms and conditions apply.
You’ll enjoy a full café-style menu freshly prepared by their onboard chefs that you can wash down with a Marlborough wine, craft beer or Wellington’s famous L’Affare coffee. Why not treat yourself and upgrade to your own private cabin with ensuite (linen included) from only $30. Perfect to rest or freshen up before or after your weekend away. Single, twin, double, four and five berth cabin options available. We recommend you pre-book one as they’re very popular.
If you’re pushed for time, Sounds Air offers direct flights from Paraparaumu and Wellington to both Blenheim and Picton for a flat rate of $99…
Hawkes Bay/Central North Island: Did you know you can fly directly from Napier or Taupo to Blenheim and back with Sounds Air? It’s the perfect opportunity to take in the vines and sample the wines of the true wine capital of NZ… Whichever way you make your way to the best little race around, we can’t wait to see you. We’ll be ready and waiting with your Saint Clair wine, some delicious Marlborough eats, and an itinerary to set you up for the best weekend ever.
See you on 8th May. P.S. Now that you’ve decided to take on the challenge, you might like to look here for some accommodation options, and check back here to stay up to date on the progress on State Highway 1.