EXPERIENCE THE TOP OF THE SOUTH ISLAND - COAST TO BEAUTIFUL COAST A FEAST OF VIEWS AND FLAVOURS - Marlborough
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EXPERIENCE THE TOP OF THE SOUTH ISLAND COAST TO BEAUTIFUL COAST A FEAST OF VIEWS AND FLAVOURS
2 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020
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travel
Unique
EXPERIENCES
Tumbling over Marlborough’s vineyards in a WWII fighter plane, or baking pancakes
over naturally-burning forest flames — if you want unique experiences for your next
Top: Buller Canyon Jet
Photo / Buller Canyon Jet
Bottom Right: Hanz Herzog,
Marlborough. Photo / Supplied
holiday, the Top of the South has plenty on offer.
ELOPE IN PARADISE Murchison is also something of an
If you’re searching for a truly unforgettable adventure hub, with jet boating,
location for your wedding or intimate whitewater rafting and kayaking
elopement, there’s plenty here in the tours on the mighty Buller River.
Top of the South. Walk across New Zealand’s
Take a helicopter to a mountain longest swingbridge at the
top and say your vows at sunset, or Buller Gorge Adventure and
in the snow. Gather on a secluded Heritage Park, or zip across the
Abel Tasman beach, dipping your rapids on the 160m Cometwire
toes in golden sand, or a far-flung before trying your luck with gold
Marlborough Sounds lodge. Or, panning. THE WINE SIDE
ride to a wind-swept Golden Bay With so much to do, you may have run out of
beach on horseback and tie the knot FIGHT OR FLIGHT time for a full Top of the South wine tour.
in a majestic cave; say “I do” on Ever wanted to see where Sir Head for Blenheim’s historic railway station,
the jetty of an alpine lake; in Peter Jackson parks his magnificent now the Wine Station. With 80 Marlborough
a vineyard; or by a waterfall collection of wartime aeroplanes? You’ll wines ‘on tap’, take a personalised tour of
surrounded by absolute find them at the Omaka Aviation Heritage varietals, from sauvignon blanc to tempranillo.
wilderness. Museum in Blenheim, alongside rare historic At Gravity in Nelson Tasman, you can taste
Whatever you choose, aviation memorabilia and artefacts from both straight from tanks and barrels on a guided tour
wedding planners from the regions World Wars, all dramatically displayed. of a state-of-the-art gravity fed winery, learning
can help you craft your big day. Or, take off on a 500km/h thrill ride in the intricacies of producing great wine from
Fighter Flights’ V12 powered Yak 3. Capable of none other than the winemaker himself.
FIRE & GOLD performing exhilarating high-speed aerobatics, Why not take a glass on location?
If you like adrenaline, fire and gold, then don’t you can choose how “mild or wild” you want Cloudy Bay’s ‘Come Sail Away’ takes you
overlook Murchison, a former goldrush town your experience to be. and their wine on a private yacht through the
Top Circle: The Dream
with an eclectic selection of unforgettable For a more sedate airborne experience, Marlborough Sounds, while its Land Rover
Maker, Rainbow
experiences, including a perpetual fire in Pelorus Air can take you above the maze of the and helicopter tours introduce you to their
Ski Area
the forest. The Natural Flames Experience Photo / Sarah Hodgett Marlborough Sounds, while Helicopters Nelson terroirs first hand.
tour will guide you to the flames and treat Photography offer guided tours of the famous Lord of the For something more relaxing, indulge in an
you to pancakes cooked over the fire, while Circle Bottom: Omaka Ring locations in the Kahurangi National Park, exclusive wine and food experience in Hanz
answering your burning questions about this Aviation Heritage Centre or Murchison Heli Tours can take you into the Herzog’s stylish wine lounge, including a
natural phenomenon. Photo / Richard Briggs mountains for a romantic picnic with a view. glimpse into the winery.
3 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020 travel
STAY & PLAY IN LUXURY WITH A VIEW
SPONSORED CONTENT
Waking up to nothing but birdsong,
the top of the south
the sound of the sea lapping at the
shore and the promise of a delicious
breakfast followed by a pampering
visit at the day spa — staying at one
of the many luxury lodges in the Top
Seafront suites, wilderness wellness retreats, a private island, of the South is the perfect antidote
wine barrel rooms and a B&B in a giant boot — however to busy modern lives.
In the Marlborough Sounds,
you like to holiday, accommodation in Nelson Tasman and Bay of Many Coves Resort,
Marlborough truly caters for everyone. a five-star lodge in Queen
Charlotte Sound/Totaranui,
HOBBIT HIDEAWAY WELLNESS, NATURALLY is nestled amid breath-taking
In a region known for its art, natural diversity Soaking in a secluded hot tub, natural scenery, yet just a short
and alternative lifestyles, accommodation surrounded by mountains and a scenic boat ride from Picton.
comes in all forms. In Nelson Tasman, it comes rushing river is Maruia River Retreat. Emerging from this natural
in the shape of a giant boot. Located at Jester Located near Murchison in the Tasman paradise, it’s a short drive south to
House, known for its beautiful quirky art-filled District and accessible from both Nelson and Marlborough’s Golden Mile of wine
gardens, The Boot is private, intimate and Marlborough, Maruia is the perfect place and the elegant Marlborough Lodge.
features an open fire, spiral staircase and a for some relaxation and rejuvenation. Set within extensive gardens, there’s
juliet balcony. To the north, the stunning river no better place to celebrate wine
Or, live like a hobbit in Marlborough’s wine valley gives way to the golden (naturally) and incredible cuisine.
barrel cabins. Overlooking the vineyards in beaches of Kaiteriteri, bordering Heading west to Nelson
a secluded valley, the two barrels promise the Abel Tasman National Park. Tasman, luxury options
an accommodation experience like no other Here you’ll find Kimi Ora Eco abound. The Resurgence
where indulging in a local wine on your Resort’s extensive day spa, and Luxury Eco Lodge offers a
private terrace is a must. Split Apple Retreat where wellness, unique wilderness experience
incredible cuisine and stunning where evenings are best spent
vistas over Tasman Bay meld into one in your private bush bath, set
sumptuous experience. in 50 acres of native forest, or at
For the active relaxer, the Top of the dinner with a bespoke garden to
South is the perfect place to combine table experience tailored by the
activity with comfort and cuisine. The Abel on-site chef. Nearby, in the secluded
Top Circle: Bay of
Tasman National Park and Marlborough Orinoco Valley, Edenhouse is a 6-star
Many Coves
Sounds are dotted with lodges that mean luxury lodge set within beautiful
Photo / Supplied
you can walk, kayak, cruise or mountain Circle Bottom: Outdoor
grounds whilst the Tasman cliffs are
bike all day, then relax with great food and Bath home to Te Koi The Lodge at Bronte.
wine at the on-site restaurants by night. Photo / Pepin Island Farm Set in a spectacular location, guests
Or, let the adventure continue by staying Bottom Left: Food can indulge in aperitifs and fine local
overnight on the water with Abel Tasman & Wine cuisine on the deck at sunset.
Sailing Adventures or Abel Tasman Charters. Photo / Te Koi Lodge
COME VISIT THE HOME OF
PIC’S PEANUT BUTTER
UTTER
NELSON NEW ZEALAND
D
4 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020 travel
DO SOMETHING NEW
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Sometimes, the most rewarding and memorable moments of a holiday are
as simple as an amazing view, or the discovery of something new. You just
have to know where to look — so to help, here are some of the Top of the
South’s best hidden gems and natural attractions.
EXPLORE AN ALPINE WONDERLAND CLIMB MT STOKES
St Arnaud village is the alpine gateway Towering over the Marlborough Sounds is
to Nelson Lakes National Park, home to 16 1,203m Mount Stokes. Accessible by tramping
picturesque glacial carved lakes. Picnic beside track, the summit is home to rare sub-alpine
Lake Rotoiti, indulge in one of the many lakeside plants and affords 360-degree views across
bush walks, or head to Rainbow Ski Area and the entire Marlborough Sounds and beyond.
admire the scenery from the top of the slopes. Do something new: Stay at nearby Punga
Do something new: Stay at The Alpine Cove or Mahana Lodge to start your walk
Lodge and hire a canoe to explore the lake, early. Summit before daybreak for a sunrise
stopping off at the jetty to visit Whisky Falls you’ll never forget.
STAY ON AN ISLAND VISIT EATWELLS LOOKOUT
The historic Gunyah Homestead on Arapaoa One of the best views on the Queen Charlotte
Island overlooks the entrance to Tory Channel Track is from Eatwell’s Lookout. The short
and comes with its own beach. Stay a while, steep climb from Punga Cove is worth every
drink in the views and learn about the island’s step for the incredible views beside the
GOLDEN DAYS IN GOLDEN BAY Top Left: Wharariki rich history including the nearby whaling legendary signpost. Do something new: Take
Golden Bay’s natural attractions easily rival Beach station. Do something new: Watch the Cook a picnic lunch and enjoy it at the lookout’s
the recognised wonders of the world, from Photo / nelsontasman.nz. Strait ferries passing below your window. picnic table with one of the most stunning
Right Bottom: Mount
the crystal-clear Te Waikoropupū Springs, views in Marlborough.
Stokes
to the intriguing limestone labyrinth at The
Photo / @Ahilsuhas
SPLENDOUR IN THE PARK
Grove Scenic Reserve, the magical Wainui Hidden gems are scattered throughout the
Falls, majestic Wharariki Beach and the Abel Tasman National Park’s pristine golden-
iconic landscapes along the Puponga Hilltop sand coastline, with some, like iconic Split
Track — a day walk (or tour) that takes in Apple Rock, best seen from a boat or a kayak.
both Farewell Spit and Cape Farewell. Must-do experiences include the 40-metre
Do something new: Take a tour of Farewell Falls River Swing Bridge, bathing at Anapai
Spit with Farewell Spit Tours, or kayak and kayaking in the Torrent Bay Lagoon.
around the Tata Islands and into the Abel Do something new: A kayak, cruise and
Tasman National Park from the north with walk combo is the perfect opportunity to see
Golden Bay Kayaks. the park from all perspectives.
Book Online use Code
WINTER2020 to unlock
discounts, STAY 3 PAY 2
5 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020 travel
A FEAST OF VIEWS
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AND FLAVOURS
Delicious wines paired with the freshest seafood,
rich artisan cheeses, olive oils and orchards bursting
with fruit — the Top of the South is a veritable feast of
flavours, best enjoyed at the source.
TASTE YOUR WAY
From incredible wines to craft beers and
cider, the Top of the South offers some of
the best tasting trails around.
Sip a crisp sauvignon blanc and
discover new flavours and varieties URBAN VIBES,
at an iconic label or boutique MARKET DELIGHTS
Marlborough vineyard, or savour a
deep rich pinot noir at the South Island’s Food, wine, music and great
oldest commercial winery, Seifried Estate atmosphere — welcome to the Upper
in Nelson Tasman. Both regions have a wine Trafalgar Street dining precinct
trail, offering every opportunity to indulge in central Nelson. Complete with
across spectacular cellar doors and vineyard outdoor seating, hammocks and live
restaurants. Top: Cougar Line entertainment in the warmer months,
If it’s hops that appeal, explore the craft Photo / Supplied cocktail and whisky bars and plenty of
beer trail from Nelson city to Golden Bay. great food, Trafalgar St is the best way
Be sure to visit New Zealand’s oldest pub to soak in the vibes of this eclectic city.
in Upper Moutere, and add the quirky, Tasman National Park beach. In Blenheim, head for Scotch Wine
live performance venue of the Mussel For the ultimate scenery/food Bar, a 1-Hat Restaurant where bean
Inn to your list. In Marlborough, Moa combination, join Marlborough bags furnish the pavement, or 5 Tapped,
and Golden Mile Brewing are craft beer Tour Company’s Greenshell Mussel an eclectic bar where craft beer and
islands among the vines. Cruise from Havelock, or Seafood vintage motorcycles happily coexist.
Odyssea Cruise from Picton, to indulge in In the morning, head for the markets.
DINNER AND A VIEW Marlborough’s delicious seafood paired with Nelson’s Saturday Market is famous
The top of the South is as well-known for its wine and gorgeous scenery. for its colourful and flavourful offerings,
natural beauty as its exceptional food and where many well-known global brands
wine, and the best way to enjoy it is to FORAGE YOUR FLAVOURS have found their roots. In Motueka,
combine it all into one amazing feast of There are few things more satisfying Sunday is market day, perfect for picking
flavours and views. than enjoying beautiful fresh food some delicious organic snacks.
Watch the sun set over snow-capped straight from the source, harvested or
mountains and glistening Tasman caught yourself.
Bay from Nelson Tasman’s iconic Boat At Anatoki Salmon in Golden Bay,
Shed Cafe while savouring the best you can throw a line, catch your fish
of local produce, watch the ebb and and have it hot smoked or prepared
flow of the tide over a lingering lunch at sashimi style on site, to be savoured at
Jellyfish Restaurant & Bar on Mapua Wharf, its best.
or venture further afield to Kaiteriteri’s Kai In Marlborough, Katabatic Charters offers
Restaurant. bespoke cruises where dinner is sourced from
In Marlborough wine country, your gourmet Circle Top: Anatoki the mussel farm or the seafloor, then served
lunch comes with views of the vine variety at Salmon
with the skipper’s own sourdough bread.
Photo / Supplied
Wairau River, St Clair and Wither Hills, and at Back on land, Cloudy Bay’s ‘Forage’ takes you
Middle Circle: Jellyfish
celebrated restaurant Arbour for dinner. into nature and to artisan producers to gather
Restaurant & Bar
Or treat yourself to lunch in splendid isolation. ingredients, to be expertly prepared by your
Photo / nelsontasman.nz.
From Picton, Cougar Line and Beachcomber Bottom Circle: chef for a very special Forage Dinner.
offer daily lunch cruises to Marlborough Bay of Many Coves And for some family fun in Nelson, Pic’s
Sounds lodges while in Nelson Tasman, Photo / Supplied Peanut Butter World not only lets you tour
Gourmet Sailing will whisk you away for Right: Wairau River their factory, but the kids can have a go at
a gourmet picnic lunch on a stunning Abel Photo / Supplied making their own peanut butter.
From cellar doors to winery
restaurants, bike trails to boutique
accommodation… discover
something new in a New Zealand
wine region.
Find out more at nzwine.com/visit
MarlboroughNZ
6 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020
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Coast
TO BEAUTIFUL COAST
From golden sand beaches to secluded coves and turquoise lagoons — the Top of the South has such a long,
contrasting and fascinating coastline to explore that you may need more than one holiday to see it all.
ADMIRE THE ABEL TASMAN TASTE YOUR WAY AROUND The 73km Queen Charlotte Track
Famous for its golden sand beaches, sweeping Tasting fresh seafood paired takes in a wide variety of that
granite coastlines and lagoons so tranquil with Marlborough wine while coastline, from picture-postcard
they appear almost ethereal, the Abel Tasman cruising the clear waters of Ship Cove/Meretoto in the
National Park is stunning from any angle. the Marlborough Sounds, or north, to bush-clad Anakiwa
The 60km Abel Tasman Coast Track runs indulging in a gourmet picnic in the south, with ridgetop
between Marahau and Wainui in Golden Bay, on a private Abel Tasman views across Queen
and is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. beach — this, surely, is the Charlotte Sound/Totaranui
The track is frequented at several points by very best way to enjoy the and Kenepuru Sounds.
scenic cruise, water taxi and boat transport, exquisite flavours of the sea. Like the Abel Tasman,
making it very easy to spend anywhere from Marlborough Tour the track has many entry
a few hours to a few days just soaking in the Company’s Greenshell points visited by Picton
beauty of this pristine paradise. Companies Mussel Cruise departs from water taxis Cougar Line
such as Wilsons Abel Tasman offer all- Havelock, the Greenshell and Beachcomber, which
inclusive and multi-day guided trips so that Mussel capital of New Zealand, can also transport sea
you can truly relax and immerse in the and the Seafood Odyssea Cruise kayaks and mountain bikes
experience. leaves from Picton. Both tours (biking is permitted on the
Combining land and sea experiences is cruise past mussel and salmon farms, track). Both companies offer scenic
the best way to enjoy the unique, contrasting and offer generous servings of freshly cruises with the option of stopping
landscapes and natural attractions along the prepared mussels, King salmon, Cloudy Bay at Motuara Island, a protected bird
sweeping coast. Walk, cruise, sail or paddle Clams and paua. sanctuary, or a day trip to historic Ship Cove/
Top Left: The Queen
in by sea kayak and venture up hidden Or, why not catch your own dinner? Meretoto.
Charlotte Track,
lagoons and rivers, overnighting at beachfront Katabatic Charters will take you fishing and On the quieter but no less interesting side
Marlborough
lodges or DOC campsites. The palette of foraging in the Sounds, before your catch Photo / Supplied of the Sounds, the Pelorus Mail Boat from
coastal colours is just as spectacular from is prepared on-board by your skipper, who Top Right: Onetahuti Havelock offers a unique locals’ perspective on
the sky. Helicopter in from Nelson, Motueka happens to be a trained chef. in Abel Tasman life in isolated properties, and a full-day trip will
or Marlborough, and land near stunning National Park take you to corners of this vast coastline rarely
Awaroa Beach, famously purchased by the SOUNDS LIKE ADVENTURE Photo / Kaiteriteri Kayaks seen by visitors.
New Zealand public. Once you’re there in Comprising of one fifth of New Zealand’s Circle: The Greenshell And of course, the Marlborough Sounds, too,
the heart of the park, stay a while at Awaroa total coastline, just looking at a map of the Mussel Cruise, is spectacular from the sky — book a helicopter
Marlborough
Lodge, or walk a section of the track to Marlborough Sounds is enough to bring out tour with a local operator, or have them land at
Photo / Supplied
discover more hidden delights of the park. an itch for adventure. a secluded lodge for lunch or to stay.
7 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020 travel
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Touring
INLAND SPLENDOUR
The inland route from Marlborough to
Nelson Tasman may often be the road
less travelled, but its undiscovered beauty
THE TOP OF THE SOUTH
will not disappoint.
From Picton, cross the Wairau River into
Marlborough wine country, where cellar
doors abound. Stay and do a wine tour,
or pop into wineries independently for a
casual tasting and a platter or vineyard
With scenery for miles and an endless variety of things to see, taste and do, the Top of the lunch.
The vines remain a constant
South Island lends itself perfectly to a road trip that stretches across the Nelson Tasman companion until far up SH63 in the
and Marlborough regions. Here are two suggested routes. Wairau Valley, bordered by the rugged
Richmond Range, which leads to St
COASTAL EXPLORER longest flying fox experiences, quad biking, Arnaud in Nelson Lakes National Park.
From the scenic seaside town of Picton paintball, archery and more. This popular spot is the perfect base to
to Collingwood in Golden Bay, the By now you’re just minutes from access Rainbow Ski Area but, if you’re
coastal roads promise incredible central Nelson, beyond which not visiting in winter, there is plenty of
natural beauty and delicious treats is the iconic seaside scenery of hiking and mountain biking in this alpine
along the way. Rocks Road and Tahunanui wonderland.
After a coffee on Picton’s Beach. Take time to enjoy the The highway continues to Murchison,
picturesque foreshore, head uninterrupted views from the a historic gold rush town with an edge
straight into quintessential sand to the mountains, go of adrenaline on offer with jet boating
Marlborough Sounds scenery paddle-boarding around the and rafting. Try gold panning, stay at a
on Queen Charlotte Drive bay or indulge in some seaside luxury forest retreat, and admire pristine
to Havelock, stopping for dining at Wakefield Quay. waterfalls.
photos on hills and long jetties Heading south, swap SH6
overlooking calm bays. Arriving for SH60 in Richmond and
in Havelock, giant Greenshell discover the 22 cellar doors across
mussels hint at its status as the the Waimea Plains and Moutere
Greenshell mussel capital of the world. Valley. Then it’s a choice between the
Enjoy a bowl of freshly steamed mussels boutique shops and waterside cafes at
at a cafe, or eat them at the source on the beautiful Mapua, the artisan experiences and
Greenshell Mussel Cruise. local cuisine of Upper Moutere or Motueka’s
Top: Wine tastings at
Continuing west, stop at Pelorus Bridge famous doughnuts at The Smoking Barrel — or,
Forrest Wines,
spanning the deep, crystal-clear river, a just do them all.
Marlborough
drawcard for swimmers in summer, before Photo / Supplied
Back on the highway, it’s a short sharp uphill
another stop at the Hira Store, long known Middle: Whanganui Inlet, to the summit of Takaka Hill, characterised
for its generous scoops of icecream and large Westhaven by marble outcrops and ancient caves, then
variety of flavours. Here you’ll see the turnoff Photo / nelsontasman.nz down to glorious Golden Bay. From the famous
to Cable Bay, a detour promising swimming, Right: Grove Scenic Mussel Inn to the fascinating Te Waikoropupu
kayaking and diving near a marine reserve, a Reserve Springs, historic Collingwood, Farewell Spit and
hilltop walkway overlooking Tasman Bay and Photo / nelsontasman.nz beaches ranging from golden sand to wild and
an adventure park offering one of the world’s windswept, the bay really does have it all.
BE IN TO WIN
THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY
PACKAGE FOR TWO
If you’ve been dreaming of a holiday in the Top of the
South, we could make your dreams come true.
Enter for your chance to win an all-inclusive trip you’ll spend two nights by the seaside.
with Wilsons Abel Tasman, staying overnight
in spectacular beachfront lodges, cruising past The WW1 and WW2 exhibitions at Omaka Aviation
islands and inlets, and taking a guided walk Heritage Centre are calling you next, as is a voucher
through lush native bush. to enjoy the exceptional food and beverage that
Marlborough is renowned for. The journey to and from
A night in Nelson City is also on the cards, where you the Top of the South is just as incredible, and you’ll have
can indulge in cuisine that is Uniquely Nelson, before the option to fly in one way and out the other thanks to
relaxing for the evening at Rutherford Hotel Nelson. Nelson and Marlborough Airports.
You’ll also be treated to a scenic journey through
the stunning Marlborough Sounds with Cougar Line If a trip to the top of the South Island is at the top of
Water Transfers, docking at Furneaux Lodge where your bucket list, all of this could be yours.
To enter: Visit nelsontasman.nz/topofthesouth and register your details.
*T&C’s apply
8 | Tuesday, September 29, 2020
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Immerse
Top Left: Pelorus River
Hobbit Kayak Tour
Photo / Supplied
Top Right: Skydive Abel Tasman
Photo / Skydive Abel Tasman IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
From paddle board yoga to skydiving and ziplining, cycling through the vineyards or BARRELS OF FUN
For those who prefer their holiday with a side of
kayaking the coastline, the Top of the South is packed with all the romance, fun and
adrenaline, head for the longest Skywire in the
adventure you need for a weekend away with a loved one. world at Cable Bay Adventure Park near Nelson.
So high you can see Mt Taranaki on a clear
MAKING WAVES CUSTOM ART TRAIL day from the top, the four-person flying fox
If you’re happiest on the water, the entire The Top of the South is widely known reaches 100kph and once you reach the
Top of the South is your oyster. for its vibrant art scene, so creating end, you do it again — backwards.
Paddle the coastline of the Abel Tasman your own art trail is a great way to Across Tasman Bay, adventure
National Park or the tranquil Marlborough explore. options include canyoning in, or
Sounds in a sea kayak for a day or for more, Begin in the beautiful Moutere skydiving over, the Abel Tasman
or opt for a guided trip with a local guide to Hills, a magnet for sculptors, National Park, while south near
ensure you see all the best spots. ceramic artists, woodworkers and Murchison, you can go rafting
For something a bit different, explore in artisan food producers. Nearby, or jetboating down the powerful
a double or single hulled outrigger canoe Höglund Art Glass has been a Buller River through narrow gorges.
with Waka Abel Tasman, while learning mainstay of Nelson Tasman’s art For slightly less adrenaline but
more about Aotearoa’s unique heritage scene for decades, where you can barrels of fun, visit the Pelorus River
and traditional Maori custom. From Picton, marvel at intricate glass creations between Nelson and Blenheim, for
explore that heritage further by exploring Ship and watch glass blowing in action. the unique Hobbit Barrel Run Kayak
Cove/Meretoto, the site of some In Nelson city, the Suter Art Gallery, Tour, where the famous barrel scene of The
of the earliest sustained one of New Zealand’s oldest cultural Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug was filmed.
contact between Maori venues with a modern twist, is a
Left Circle : Wine touring
and Europeans. must-do. PEDAL POWER
by bike, Marlborough
At Nelson’s Mix gallery visits with a tour On dry land, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is
Photo / Supplied
Tahunanui of Nelson’s murals: From the Right Circle: Katie Gold,
the perfect way create your own bespoke
Beach, urban jungle at 1903 Square Moutere Artisans journey by bike. The 174km trail begins at the
renting a to the giant waterfront Photo / nelsontasman.nz Nelson i-SITE and loops the region. Along the
paddleboard window on Rocks Road, way, taste delicious local food, wine, beer
is one of the this is a fun way explore and cider, stay in amazing accommodation
best ways urban art, best enjoyed by and discover local activities and stunning
to explore bike. landscapes.
the pristine In Picton, the Good Day In Picton, ride the Link Pathway
Tasman Bay Gallery has an impressive connecting Picton and Havelock, or venture
coastline, private collection of onto the many other local walking and
including contemporary New Zealand mountain biking trails.
Fifeshire Rock, art, while the long-established On the Wairau Plains near Blenheim,
Haulashore Island Diversion Gallery is often a big hire a bike and pedal between wineries
and the Boulder Bank. surprise to art lovers and collectors. independently, or choose a guided tour.
le F am ily !
Fun for the W h o
www.cablebayadventurepark.com I 0800 157 300
travel Tuesday, September 29, 2020 | 9
EXPERIENCE ONE Cape
p Farewell Horse Treks - Golden Bay
OF NEW ZEALAND’S
MOST SPECTACULAR
ENVIRONMENTS.
Tours include Gannet Colony,
Cape Farewell, Fossil Point
& the Light House.
www.farewellspit.com • enquiries@farewellspit.co.nz • 0800 808 257 www.horsetreksnz.co.nz • Phone 03 524 8031
Jade Tours - Your Hosts Sue & Mike
RS Cruise MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS
C
IO in a controlled and safe environment Making Memories in Marlborough
SEN Affinity Cruises have been cruising with the NZ 60+ age range since 1996 Fun, Flexible & Informative Tours
Wine Tours | Scenic Tours | Personal or Small Private Group Tours
Cruise and Walk Scenic Cruises Experience the best of Marlborough with Jade Tours.
Join us for a Full or Half day wine tour through our world famous
Queen Charlotte Track or Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, vineyards. Marlborough wines are exceptional.
Pelorus Tracks Kenepuru Sounds, French
4 or 6 Nights Pass, d’Urville Island
From $1,700 pp 10, 6 or 5 Nights
Walk as Much or as Little from $2,100 pp
as YOU like! Relax and Enjoy!
Tripadvisor’s Travellers Choice for 2020
marlboroughjadetours.co.nz
Call: 027 951 1956
Email: mike@jade-tours.co.nz
We are known for our
Wine Exhibition, which is
the best introduction to
wine in Marlborough, and
Te Pokohiwi 1250 A.D., our
unique Polynesian settlement
and archaeology site. Smaller
exhibitions include Victorian
and natural history.
• Experience Arapawa Island
• Amazing accommodation
• Paua Pearl Tours with light
refreshments, tour of the Paua
farm and purchasing jewellery WE LOOK FORWARD TO
made by local jewellers.
• Scenic walks with incredible WELCOMING YOU
views Cloudy Bay Vineyards
• Fishing and Diving close by for 230 Jacksons Road
all to enjoy. Marlborough 7240
• For a love of the sea
experience Open: Wednesday-Sunday,
• Arapawa island - unique and 11am -4pm
unforgettable +643 520 9147
cloudybay.co.nz
arapawahomestead.co.nz
arapawabluepearls.co.nz
bl l
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CRUISING
WITH THE TOP DOWN
IN NELSON TASMAN & MARLBOROUGH
RentAClassic 1975
Alfa Romeo Spider S2
Photo / RentAclassic
Road tripping in a classic car, helicoptering to remote lodges or cruising the beautiful SEA CHANGE
clear waters by boat — the Top of the South is so easy to get to, but it’s also stress- Bringing your own car or campervan from
the North Island is as easy as driving onto a
free and fun to get around. ferry in downtown Wellington, then emerging
into beautiful Picton. The Interislander and
TOUCH DOWN IN PARADISE Bluebridge ferries cross Cook Strait several times
Centrally located within New Zealand, daily, and come with the added bonus of a
the Top of the South is easy to get to from scenic cruise through the Marlborough Sounds.
anywhere. If that scenery piques your interest, stay on
In less time than it would take to negotiate the water and explore. Beachcomber Cruises
a busy Auckland motorway on a long and Cougar Line will whisk you for lunch at far-
weekend, you could be touching down in flung Sounds lodges or several points along the
paradise, relaxed and ready to explore. Queen Charlotte Track. To explore neighbouring
Nelson Airport is well connected with Pelorus/Te Hoiere Sound, water transport
the rest of the country, offering direct options include the Pelorus Mail Boat and
flights between six destinations, including Havelock Water Taxis.
Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North In the Abel Tasman National Park, the sea is
and Paraparaumu, while Blenheim and also a great way to explore further afield. Catch
Picton Airports have direct flights from a scenic cruise, water taxi or boat trip from
Auckland and Wellington. Choose between Marahau or Kaiteriteri.
Air New Zealand, Sounds Air or Origin Air; the
journey from Auckland to Nelson is a quick THE CLASSIC ROAD TRIP
75 minutes, or 90 minutes to Blenheim. In Cruising the sun-soaked coastline with the
Marlborough, the runway is right in the heart top down, the wind in your hair – it’s the
of wine country, with the nearest cellar door stuff classic road trip dreams are made of.
mere minutes away. Marlborough-based RentAClassic has a range of convertibles,
Sounds Air lands here and into Koromiko near coupés & saloons for an unforgettable driving
Picton, where soaring between the hillsides holiday – you can even rent a driver. If you’d
feels like the start of an adventure before rather sit back and admire the scenery than
you’ve even touched the ground. watch the road, take a bus or shuttle around
Once you’re here, you could continue the regions. For urban exploration, grab a taxi,
Interislander Ferry
your journey by air to reach remote whisk you away to almost anywhere, taking a city bus, or indulge in a guided sightseeing
Photo / @cjmaddock
accommodation locations without the added in spectacular views of Kahurangi and Abel or vineyard tour. Whatever wheels suit your
travel time. Tasman National Parks or the Marlborough style, exploring by road is a fabulous way to
Local airlines and helicopter operators will Sounds on the way. see the best of the Top of the South, and more.
NELSON IS HELI BIKE BESPOKE
EVEN MORE WEDDINGS
BEAUTIFUL
FROM ABOVE
SCENIC
HELI FISHING
0800 FLY NELSON fly@helicoptersnelson.co.nz I www.helicoptersnelson.co.nztravel Tuesday, September 29, 2020 | 11
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