MARLBOROUGH
Marlborough is home to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, an exquisite group of sunken river valleys at the top of the South Island. Sheltered amongst its complex coastline are secluded, water-access-only luxury lodges where you can enjoy hikes, cruises and wildlife experiences. The region is also well known for its Sauvignon Blanc and seafood.
Our favourites here are Pete and Takutai Beech with their classic old launch, custom-built for the area. It's not the type of experience you're after if you like chrome and gilt. These guys are the old school kaitiaki (guardians) of the area and have an unrivalled depth and breadth of knowledge of the history and ecology of the Sounds. If you're keen to go further, and go well off the beaten track and stay overnight on the boat. It maybe 1 star lodging, but the countless stars add authenticity and depth to your experience.
This is the area which made New Zealand famous with its Sauvignon Blanc wines. If sophistication is more your thing, then there are some excellent wineries and restaurants. It’s no wonder this region often features on New Zealand luxury tours, thanks to its blend of world-class wine, serene landscapes, and refined hospitality. The Bay of Many Coves provides good accommodation out in the Sounds and the Marlborough Lodge (wine district) and Sounds Retreat (remote Sounds) are all well up there in terms of quality.