Nelson & Marlborough Explorer
New Zealand
The top of the South Island from Nelson's arts scene and Abel Tasman coast to Marlborough's Wairau River vineyards, World of Wearable Art, the Moutere Valley's pinot noir, the turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park, and Blenheim's sauvignon blanc (and Framingham's riesling, which you must also taste).
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Nelson
New Zealand's sunniest city, with the World of Wearable Art Museum, Suter Art Gallery, and a thriving Saturday craft market at the top of the South Island.
- World of Wearable Art Museum
Award-winning garments from the annual WOW competition fill galleries alongside vintage classics. One of New Zealand's most inventive and surprising museums.
- Moutere Valley
Pinot noir and chardonnay country in a valley of orchards and German-heritage villages. Neudorf Vineyards and the 1850s Moutere Inn are essential stops.
- Abel Tasman National Park
Golden sand, turquoise water, and 58 km of coastline past granite headlands, tidal lagoons, and fur seal colonies. One of New Zealand's nine Great Walks.
- Havelock
The greenshell mussel capital of the world, a small harbour town at the head of Pelorus Sound. Fresh mussels pulled straight from the Marlborough Sounds.
- Blenheim
The Marlborough wine capital, where long sunshine hours and cool nights produce New Zealand's definitive sauvignon blanc. Framingham's riesling is unmissable.
Where to Eat
- Hopgoods RestaurantModern New Zealand
An upscale eatery in Nelson offering seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients in a relaxed, elegant setting.
- The Mussel PotSeafood
A renowned Havelock restaurant specializing in fresh green-lipped mussels served in various delectable styles.
- ArbourContemporary New Zealand
An intimate Blenheim restaurant offering innovative dishes with a focus on local Marlborough produce and wines.
Things to Do
- Nelson Classic Car MuseumMuseum
Showcases over 150 classic cars, representing more than a century of motoring history in a well-curated collection.
- Pelorus Bridge Scenic ReserveNature
Offers picturesque walking tracks through native forest, with views of the Pelorus River and its iconic bridge.
- Omaka Aviation Heritage CentreMuseum
Features rare aircraft and immersive exhibits detailing the history of aviation, located in Blenheim.