12 Hours Marlborough

The most important meal of the day starts at Herb + Olive, a wholefoods café serving up coffee, kombucha and local seasonal food. These guys have a menu full of delicious dishes, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, to be enjoyed in a cosy, rustic atmosphere. They’re involved with the initiative UYO (use your own) which encourages customers to bring their own vessels to enjoy their coffee and food from. The health of the planet, as well as your own, doesn't go unnoticed here.

After breakfast head north and do the Black Jack Track walk, which takes you from Pukatea Whites Bay to the edge of a bluff where you'll be greeted with incredible views of Port Underwood, Cook Strait and Cape Campbell. While you’re making your way there or back you might also stumble upon the original cable station that was first used back in 1866, adding a great little dose of history to your nature intake.  

It’s always a good idea to check DOC’s website for the latest track information, alerts and updates.

Framingham Winery is an accredited environmentally sustainable vineyard that “makes wine by their own rules.”  Their process combines small batches of fruit from different parts of the vineyard, allowing them to build depth of flavour and texture. These small batches also mean small quantities, so get in quick if you want a bottle to take home! Another highlight? The annual Framingham Harvest Concert held in the winery courtyard (a big party that celebrates the harvest with live music from up-and-coming New Zealand artists). Actually, one more—it would be amiss not to mention Framingham Underground, formerly a wine cellar and library space that now hosts a variety of art exhibitions and gigs throughout the year as well as a band room for the local band Renwick Nudes to practise in.

It’s time to head back to Blenheim and spend a couple of hours wandering around this small but mighty township. Those who live for fashion will find their heaven at No.4 Boutique, where brands of the moment like La Tribe, P.E Nation and Assembly Label are stocked. For the creative minds, head to the Millennium Public Art Gallery where an ever-changing lineup of exhibitions showcases work by local and international artists alike.

After finishing at the gallery, if you find yourself with a bit of time up your sleeve, take yourself on a self-guided street art tour. As part of an initiative between the Blenheim Business Association and The Economic Action Marlborough Group, there are beautiful murals to discover all throughout the town, with different artists providing their unique takes on the natural beauty that is Marlborough.

Oozing effortlessly cool vibes, Frank’s is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner stop, or, if you’re feeling European, an aperitif. There is plenty to tempt you on the menu but it’s pretty hard to resist the oysters—their specialty after all. Perfectly paired with an expertly poured glass of champagne, Frank’s truly is a little slice of elegant heaven.

This award-winning restaurant has an ever-changing menu, but one thing that doesn’t change is its commitment to showcasing local growers, hunters and producers. The signature menu the ‘MANY’ is a seven-course experience, and unsurprisingly for this region, the wine list is extensive. The stunning interior serves as the perfect backdrop for a special occasion outing—the definition of ‘special occasion’ is entirely up to you. Bookings are essential!

Photo by David James

Indulge in a nightcap at this 1930s Asian fusion cocktail lounge that has live jazz and blues every Friday evening. Plenty of intimate spots make it the perfect place to park up with your favourite libation, a bao bun if you're still hungry, and debrief on your day in this picturesque landscape.