At Marlborough Tour Company, we live and breathe this region and we’ve crafted the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your long weekend in Marlborough.
1. Relax at the Boatshed Café & Bar at Punga Cove Resort
Spend a leisurely afternoon at the Boatshed Café & Bar at Punga Cove Resort. With stunning views over Endeavour Inlet, nothing says "summer is here" better than having a Punga Pizza and a jug of Pimms by the jetty.
2. Explore by E-Bike with Wilderness Guides
Experience the Queen Charlotte Track in a unique way with an e-bike hire from Wilderness Guides. Cruise through native forest, along scenic ridges, and past breathtaking viewpoints, all with minimal effort. Perfect for all fitness levels.
3. Marlborough Icons Tour
Discover the highlights of Marlborough on the Marlborough Icons Tour. Visit world-class wineries, enjoy stunning landscapes, and experience the region’s best sights on a curated day of exploration.
4. Hike to Eatwells Lookout with Cougar Line
Looking for one of the best views in the Marlborough Sounds? Take a Cougar Line water taxi transfer to the Queen Charlotte Track and walk to Eatwells Lookout. The climb is worth every step, panoramic views of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds make this a must-do for nature lovers.
5. Cruise on the Pelorus Mail Boat
Step aboard the historic Pelorus Mail Boat and join the locals on their daily mail run through the remote corners of Pelorus Sound. Watch dolphins play, hear stories of life in the Sounds, and experience a side of Marlborough few ever see. A truly authentic Kiwi adventure.
6. Cruise Out to Furneaux Lodge for Nature Time
Escape to Furneaux Lodge for the day, take in the views, enjoy lunch, and slow things down a little. The Sounds don’t get much more peaceful than this.
7. Guided Kayak
Explore the serene waters of the Marlborough Sounds with a guided kayaking tour. Ideal for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy being on the water. The unique local geography of the sounds provide minimal swell and tides, offering gentle waters more similar to paddling on an inland lake, but still with the opportunity to see some of the areas native marine wildlife - Kekeno fur seals, little blue penguins, and even dolphins! Local operators Wilderness Guides and Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company offer both full and half day options.
8. Cruise and Lunch with Cougar Line Water Taxi
Hop on a Cougar Line water taxi for a scenic journey through the Marlborough Sounds. Stop for a delicious lodge lunch along the way and take in some of the most picturesque waterways in New Zealand.
Plan Your Marlborough Long Weekend
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Marlborough’s world-famous wines, this region has something for every kind of traveller. From scenic cruises and guided adventure tours to vineyard visits, your long weekend in Marlborough is ready to be filled with unforgettable experiences.
