Marlborough Country

On an overcast, rather grey morning at the early time of 7.00 am,  after our last night's sleep in Wellington,  we checked in to catch the first ferry across the Cook Straits to continue our travels through New Zealand. Although it doesn't look far on the map the crossing takes 3-4 hours. 

During the first part of the voyage we chatted to a student who was returning to study accountancy in Dunedin after a summer working in retail. It was interesting listening to a young New Zealander share his hopes and aspirations for the future. 

Later in the journey we went out on deck to find bright sunshine. As our ferry navigated its passage through Queen Charlotte Sound our breath was taken away by the stunning views of forest clad fjords, sparkling blue sea and a backdrop of mountains. It was quite simply a magnificent way to arrive.

Our first night would be spent in Picton, gateway to the South. After lunch and checking in at our campsite we tried a short walk to Bob's Bay. This gave lovely views of Queen Charlotte Sound from a footpath we'd spotted from the ferry.  A steep climb back over the hill and equally steep descent brought us out by a 'dairy' where we could get some cold drinks. The 'dairy' is an institution in New Zealand. Most small towns have at least one and they are all little independent convenience stores that sell fresh food, veg, dairy products (obviously) and sundry other items like fish bait.

The next morning we had what I thought would be a short drive to Blenheim, main town in the Marlborough wine region. Now I confess to not looking at the map too closely and decided the coast road would be a more scenic albeit slightly longer drive. What I didn't know was that 25 of the 30 miles would be on gravel..and on steep winding road. There was no rushing this drive..not that there was any need as the views were stunning. We went through lots of little bays, stopping frequently to take photos or just admire the scenery. The whole area was sparsely populated but littered with a few reminders of the 19th century whaling industry. 

Views from various places on the Picton - Blenheim coast road

Eventually we reached the level and tarmaced roads of the Marlborough plains...and acre upon acre of vineyards. Three quarters of all NZ wine comes from the Marlborough region and there are wineries galore. The reason for this is geography. Mountains surround the region protecting the grape vines from the prevailing winds. Fertile soils and a warm dry climate make for ideal growing conditions. For this reason there are also lots of orchards and plenty of places to buy delicious fresh fruit.

After first taking Mrs B to another boutique chocolatier (free tasting and a mandatory purchase) I pointed Ned in the direction of the Clos Henri winery.

Mrs B. about to enter chocolate heaven!

With a deconsecrated wooden church as the cellar door this winery was in a beautiful setting.

 

A happy consumer!

Started by a French family who have vinyards in the Sancerre region, this small wine maker produces some really good white wines. After a tasting Mrs B. treated me to a bottle of one of the Sauvignon Blanc. We were both happy with our respective purchases!


Sadly our time in Marlborough was short but at least we'd been able to sample some of the region's produce and the sun continued to shine unabated as we travelled on to our next destination:Kaikoura.