Marlborough is at the top of the South Island, and can be easily reached by air or ferry from Wellington. The city of Blenheim is at the region’s heart, and is just a short 20 minute drive from the breathtaking beaty of the Marlborough Sounds. Over the hills and to the south are the Awatere Valley and the seaside town of Kaikoura.

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region. It has an enviable international reputation for producing the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world. It also makes very good Chardonnay and Riesling and is fast developing a reputation for high quality Pinot Noir. Of the region’s ten thousand hectares of grapes (almost half the national crop) one third are planted in Sauvignon Blanc. More »

Hawke’s Bay, located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island and to the south of Gisborne, is New Zealand’s leading wine and food tourism destination. It’s also a region steeped in history. The cities of Napier and Hastings were all but destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, and rebuilt in the prevailing art deco and spanish mission styles.

Hawke’s Bay combines lots of sun and a temperate climate with an attractive rural landscape, and an abundance of good food and dining opportunities. Many of New Zealand’s best wineries are located in Hawke’s Bay, and are within easy reach of visitors. If visiting the region, allow at least one day to explore its wineries. More »