MARLBOROUGH Incentive Guide
WELCOME TO MARLBOROUGH
Imagine a place where world-class wine, gourmet cuisine, stunning landscapes, and exhilarating adventures come together in perfect harmony. Welcome to Marlborough — New Zealand’s premier destination for unforgettable incentive experiences.
In Marlborough, your group can be sipping award-winning wines at a celebrated cellar door mere moments after arrival, and by evening, be indulging in a gourmet feast at a secluded waterfront lodge, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.
This is where your team can soar above sprawling vineyards in a helicopter, kayak alongside playful dolphins, or wander through pristine native bush—all in one extraordinary day. From luxurious resorts nestled in tranquil bays to exclusive tastings at boutique wineries, Marlborough offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Recognized globally as one of the most welcoming regions, Marlborough’s warm hospitality and unmatched local expertise ensure every detail of your incentive programme is effortlessly taken care of. Our Business Events team is here to craft tailor-made itineraries that reveal the region’s hidden gems, creating a bespoke experience your team will never forget.
Let us introduce you to Marlborough—a region where inspiration flows as freely as the wine, where each moment is designed to reward and rejuvenate. For an incentive journey like no other, there’s nowhere quite like Marlborough.
Ready to elevate your next incentive programme? Let us show you the extraordinary.
The Business Events Development Team | MarlboroughNZ
CONTACT US
Destination Marlborough is a not-for-profit regional tourism organisation. We have a dedicated Business Events team who are here to offer assistance and advice for business meetings, conferences, events and incentive programmes.
If you require any additional information or have any queries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
MarlboroughNZ.com/meet conference@MarlboroughNZ.com
+64 27 203 2595
Business Events Marlborough
OUR SERVICES
›› IMPARTIAL ADVICE
Our service is completely free of charge. The Business Events team is here to recommend you ideas, suitable and available venues, accommodation, activities and connect you to the right people and businesses to make it happen.
›› BID DOCUMENTS
We send out a brief of your event to all relevant suppliers and compile a bespoke proposal for Marlborough to be successful in hosting your next business event.
›› FAMIL TRIPS & SITE INSPECTION
Destination Marlborough offers assistance with the coordination of familiarisations and arranges onsite venue inspections, accommodation and service providers helping you to get the best Marlborough has to offer.
›› PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL
Make use of our free use of images, videos, maps, regional brochures and more.
CONNECTIVITY
Getting to Marlborough couldn’t be easier with so many ways to travel! Once you’re here, Marlborough is an ideal place to explore with minimal traffic and splendid scenery.
GETTING HERE
›› BY AIR
Air New Zealand has several daily direct flights from Auckland and Wellington to Marlborough. airnewzealand.com
Sounds Air flies direct from Wellington, Christchurch and Paraparaumu to Marlborough and also from Wellington to Koromiko Airport. soundsair.com
›› BY SEA
The Bluebridge and Interislander passenger and vehicle ferries cross Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton several times daily. Start your journey off with an incredible 3.5-hour cruise through the Marlborough Sounds. bluebridge.co.nz | interislander.co.nz
›› BY RAIL (seasonal service)
From the south, the Coastal Pacific train is a great way to really enjoy the scenery without the distraction of the road. The Coastal Pacific train travels from Christchurch to Picton via Blenheim along the scenic Kaikōura coast. greatjourneysnz.com
›› BY ROAD
Marlborough is well-connected by state highways and bus services from Christchurch, Nelson and the West Coast. Arriving by car means stopping wherever you want, whenever you want. Or sit back in the bus and enjoy the scenery. intercity.co.nz | journeys.nzta.govt.nz
GETTING AROUND
Most amenities in Blenheim, Picton, and Havelock are easily accessible on foot, with safe and convenient walking distances. For group transport, Marlborough offers a range of options, from luxury cars and mini vans to large coaches, all available for private bookings. Taxis and shuttles operate day and night, ensuring reliable transport at any time.
TRAVEL TIMES
FLY DIRECT
Auckland to Marlborough 1hr 30 mins
Wellington to Marlborough 25 mins
Paraparaumu to Marlborough 30 mins
Christchurch to Marlborough 50 mins
Wellington to Picton 25 mins
FERRY
Wellington to Picton 3.5hrs
TRAIN
Christchurch to Picton 5hrs 15 mins
Only runs on scheduled days. Please visit www.greatjourneysofnz.co.nz/coastal-pacific for the most up to date schedule.
DRIVE
Christchurch to Blenheim (SH1) 4hrs 30 mins
Kaikōura to Blenheim (SH1) 1hr 45 mins
Nelson to Blenheim (SH6) 1hr 45 mins
Havelock to Blenheim (SH6) 35 mins
Picton to Blenheim (SH1) 25 mins
Marlborough Airport to Blenheim 10 mins
Koromiko Airport to Picton 10 mins
Travel times are approximate only, and do not account for road closures, detours or delays. For up to date information visit nzta.govt.nz/traffic
TIAKI PROMISE
New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations.
By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to New Zealand. To act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.
While travelling in New Zealand I will:
• Care for the land, sea & nature, treading it lightly & leaving no trace
• Travel safely, showing care & consideration for all
• Respect culture, travelling with an open heart & mind
Nau Mai, Haere Mai Ki Aotearoa, Welcome to New Zealand.
Destination Marlborough is a member of the TIA Sustainability commitment, encompassing the four elements of tourism sustainability: Economic, Visitor, Community and Environment.
tiakinewzealand.com | sustainabletourism.nz
TE TAU IHU O TE WAKA A M ĀUI MARLBOROUGH , a place based at the geopgrahic centre of Aotearoa New Zealand, is blessed with many different story lines, bound by the Nukuo Ariki - the four valleys. Each area in Marlborough has its own unique charm and attractions.
›› WAIRAU VALLEY - BLENHEIM, RENWICK, & WAIHOPAI
The word Wairau meaning 'Many Rivers' describes the braided river beds that flow through the landscape. The Wairau Valley is made up of a few townships of Blenheim, Renwick and Spring Creek. There's an abundance of vineyards and cellar doors housed in the valley to explore and discover why the world is in love with Marlborough wine.
TE WAIHARAKEKE BLENHEIM
Marlborough's largest town is best explored by foot, with an abundance of great cafes, restaurants shops and galleries, along with popular walkways along the Taylor River Reserve. It's only a short distance to the region's world famous wineries and therefore the perfect place to base yourself at your next Business Event.
›› TŌTARANUI QUEEN CHARLOTTE - PICTON & QUEEN CHARLOTTE
SOUND
The Queen Charlotte Sound is a coastal paradise of island sanctuaries, thriving native birdlife, and pristine waters where dolphins, penguins, orca, stingrays, and seabirds can be spotted. Stunning beaches meet lush native bush, creating a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. Travel by boat, bike, car, helicopter, or plane to discover its intricate waterways, exceptional resorts, and the renowned Queen Charlotte Track. At its gateway, the charming port town of Waitohi Picton offers fantastic cafés, restaurants, galleries, and specialty shops.
›› TE HOIERE PELORUS VALLEY - HAVELOCK, KENEPURU & PELORUS SOUND
Tucked in beside beautiful wetlands, gorgeous native bush, and the magical Kenepuru, Mahau and Pelorus Sounds, lies Havelock, the Greenshell™ Mussel capital of the world. It serves as a gateway to nearby waterways, hiking tracks, and offers seafood dining experiences.
›› AWATERE VALLEY - SEDDON, WARD & SOUTHERN MARLBOROUGH
From wild Pacific Coast beaches to the sacred peak of Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku, unique vineyard terroirs and New Zealand’s largest high country station, South Marlborough has incredible landscapes to discover. Drive or bike the historic Molesworth Station, explore wine and the vast Yealands Estate and enjoy authentic Kiwi hospitality.
USEFUL INFORMATION HELPFUL CONTACTS
FACTS & FIGURES
›› Marlborough has taken the sunshine crown for 2024, with 2,769 hours of sunshine recorded in Blenheim, ahead of Nelson and Bay of Plenty.
›› The region is famously home to the Marlborough Sounds, a winding and picture perfect network of sea drowned valleys which encompasses one-fifth of New Zealand's coastline.
›› Tapuae-o-Uenuku in the Inland Kaikōura Range is 2885 metres high, and not only the highest point in Marlborough, but also the highest point in New Zealand outside the Southern Alps.
›› Marlborough has been recognised as the sixth most welcoming region in the world in Booking.com's 2023 Traveller Review Awards - the only southern hemisphere destination to make the list.
›› Captain James Cook, along with his crew, was the first European to visit Marlborough, arriving in 1770.
›› Destination Marlborough is a member of the TIA Sustainability commitment, encompassing the four elements of tourism sustainability: Economic, Visitor, Community and Environment. Find out more at sustainabletourism.nz
I-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
Contact the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre for expert local knowledge, comprehensive travel information and booking services. Blenheim (8 Sinclair Street), Picton (The Foreshore), Havelock (61 Main Road) bookings@MarlboroughNZ.com 0800 777 181
LOCAL COUNCIL
Marlborough District Council can be contacted for all enquiries on planning, consents, regulatory matters and public and special event support. marlborough.govt.nz events@marlborough.govt.nz
+64 3 520 7400
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
In an emergency, dial 111 for police, fire service and ambulance. For a non-emergency call 105. Police stations
Blenheim (8 Main St), Picton (36 Broadway) and Havelock (59 Main Rd). Wairau Hospital
Hospital Road, Witherlea, Blenheim
+64 3 520 9999
Marlborough Urgent Care Centre (8am-8pm)
Entry off Hospital Road, Blenheim
+64 3 520 6377
Marlborough is splendid in every season, from cracker summer days to calm, crisp winter weeks. Protected by mountain ranges, the temperature and climate and high sunshine hours make Marlborough a fantastic year-round destination.
››
SPRING | 1 SEPTEMBER - 30 NOVEMBER
Crisp mornings and warm, sunny afternoons will have you spellbound by spring in Marlborough. As new buds form on the region’s vines and fruit trees, spring marks the release of the latest Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy sunshine with a vineyard tour under blue skies and snow on the mountains. Make the most of warm spring days in a Marlborough Sounds luxury lodge, and explore with a scenic cruise or by kayak.
AVERAGE DAILY MAX TEMPERATURE: 18°C | 64°F
››
SUMMER | 1 DECEMBER - 28 FEBRUARY
Summer in Marlborough celebrates life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding or rowing a dinghy across the bay, summer is about walking trails, cool rivers, leaping from a rope swing into the water, hammocks, and spending time around, on and in the water. Explore the Queen Charlotte Track on foot or by mountain bike, stopping at lodges along the way for lunch or for longer. Board a scenic or seafood cruise to enjoy the Marlborough Sounds scenery.
AVERAGE DAILY MAX TEMPERATURE: 23°C | 74°F
›› AUTUMN | 1 MARCH - 31 MAY
If you think summer’s great in Marlborough, wait until you experience autumn’s brilliant weather and colours. The annual grape harvest is in full swing, and cellar doors are rich with the aroma of new wine and the buzz of a province at work. See the grapevines change to autumn hues – each block a different colour, depending on the variety. Take advantage of the great weather, hit the walking and biking trails, grab your camera and catch Marlborough’s stunning autumn colours.
AVERAGE DAILY MAX TEMPERATURE: 19°C | 66°F
››
WINTER | 1 JUNE - 31 AUGUST
With crisp blue skies and abundant sunshine, winter is Marlborough’s best hidden secret. Enjoy an outdoor vineyard lunch in the afternoon warmth, or cosy up by an open fire with a rich Pinot Noir at a cellar door. The glassy, still waters of the Marlborough Sounds, with abundant marine wildlife, makes winter the perfect time to explore. It’s a fantastic time of year for fishing, diving, exploring and viewing wildlife or to cruise or sail to a secluded Marlborough Sounds bay for lunch.
AVERAGE DAILY MAX TEMPERATURE: 13°C | 55°F
IMPARTIAL ADVICE
Finding the perfect setting for your incentive group is key to creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for an intimate vineyard retreat, a waterfront escape, or a world-class meeting venue, Marlborough offers an exceptional range of bespoke locations. From historic estates to modern luxury spaces, we can help you find the ideal venue to match your group’s vision, size, and objectives.
Complementing these venues is Marlborough’s diverse accommodation portfolio. Whether your group seeks the exclusivity of a private lodge, the charm of a boutique hotel, or the convenience of a centrally located resort, we can tailor recommendations to suit your needs.
Choose from:
• Secluded Luxury Lodges – Nestled in stunning natural settings, offering privacy, indulgence, and world-class service.
• Boutique Hotels & Vineyard Stays –Unique and intimate accommodations that capture the essence of Marlborough’s hospitality.
• Resorts & Modern Hotels – Perfect for larger groups, providing convenience, premium amenities, and seamless event services.
• Coastal Retreats & Eco-Lodges – Ideal for nature lovers, with breathtaking views and immersive experiences in the Marlborough Sounds.
Let us take care of the details, ensuring your group enjoys not only the best venues and accommodations but also a seamless, stressfree stay in Marlborough.
BESPOKE VENUES & EXCEPTIONAL STAYS
DINNER ON STAGE
Create a unique theatrical event with a private dinner on the stage. The large stage house can accommodate up to 200 guests banquet style with lighting to create the ambiance, and the entertainment can be set up in the auditorium. A pre-dinner cocktail party in the foyer can also be arranged and guests can dress up in black tie or as their favourite theatrical stars!
CONTACT DETAILS
2 Hutcheson Street, Blenheim +64 3 520 8563 events@mctt.co.nz asbtheatre.com
BARREL HALL DINING
EXHIBIT & DINE AT OMAKA
Movie set like scenes, complete with full-scale aircraft such as the Mk.XIV Spitfire, will wow your guests and combined with award winning Marlborough wine and cuisine, will ensure a memorable and exciting event. Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is available for cocktails or seated dining for up to 320 guests.
CONTACT DETAILS
79 Aerodrome Road, Omaka +64 3 579 1305 marketing@omaka.org.nz omaka.org.nz
UNDERGROUND FUN
Our two purpose-built board room facilities with data projectors and open fires are perfect for private meetings or even a cocktail party. The pinnacle is our Barrel Hall which offers a unique and memorable dining setting for 14 guests, seated amongst the barrels of next year’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
CONTACT DETAILS
211 New Renwick Road, Burleigh +64 3 520 8284
ben.godsiff@lionco.com witherhills.co.nz
Originally a wine cellar and wine library, is now home for functions, pop-up gigs and art exhibitions. Framingham can be hired for private events, with many unique options like having canapes served through the bars of the wine cellar. The team share their love for wine and music and are open to any innovative and crazy ideas!
CONTACT DETAILS
19 Conders Bend Road, Renwick +64 3 572 8884 info@framingham.co.nz framingham.co.nz
SECRET RESTAURANT
Enjoy an escape to charming Waterfall Bay, situated at the end of Onahau Bay in the Queen Charlotte Sounds. Only 20 minutes from Picton this delightful little haven is waiting to be found! Suitable for small gatherings, the restaurant can be set up to host a sit down function for 45 people.
CONTACT DETAILS
163 Onahau Bay, Queen Charlotte Sounds
+64 27 688 6030 kmmrolls@gmail.com waterfallbay.nz
MAHI CAVE DINING
Guests will enjoy a special, private candlelit dinner in the caves, which were built with the winery in 1984, with a tour of the winery in between courses. An intimate private dining in the cave with special library release wines and older vintages can be arranged for small groups of 6 to 26 people.
CONTACT DETAILS
9 Terrace Road, Renwick
+64 3 572 8859
max@mahiwine.co.nz mahiwine.co.nz
DINE WITH VIEWS
Located on the Brancott Vineyard, home of the first Sauvignon Blanc plantings, the architecturally designed Brancott Estate Heritage Vineyard Site is one of the region’s premier off-site venues. The elevated main dining area provides panoramic views sweeping across the region for an idyllic backdrop for an exclusive lunch, dinner or wine tasting event.
CONTACT DETAILS
180 Brancott Vineyard, Fairhall +64 27 281 6444 info@opevents.nz onpointevents.nz
SPY THEMED EVENT
With award-winning architecture, dramatic vineyard views and a name that sparks intrigue, Spy Valley is the perfect venue for a themed corporate event. Think James Bond cocktail party, secret-agent challenge or a twilight wine tasting under the stars. Three unique spaces available including lawn, boardroom and cellar door.
CONTACT DETAILS
37 Lake Timara Road, Waihopai
+64 3 572 6207
info@spyvalley.co.nz spyvalleywine.co.nz
14TH LANE URBAN HOTEL
This truly boutique hotel and urban retreat, in a refurbished heritage building, is conveniently located in the heart of Blenheim CBD. Each room is uniquely stylish and spacious, with modern and contemporary, tiled private bathrooms, luxury NZ made bathroom amenities, and all the mod cons to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
CONTACT DETAILS
1A Kinross Street, Blenheim +64 3 972 2727 stay@14thlane.nz 14thlane.nz
THE MARLBOROUGH
Located in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, our 1901 building has been extensively renovated, creating ten contemporary rooms that are elegantly and uniquely designed to ensure your every comfort is met within your room whilst also providing many comfortable spaces for all to enjoy throughout the property.
CONTACT DETAILS
776 Rapaura Road, Rapaura +64 3 570 5700 reservations@themarlborough.co.nz themarlborough.co.nz
SECRET SHACK ESCAPE
The Cloudy Bay Shack is not usually available for private bookings, however, at present there is the opportunity to be our guest. It showcases the best of New Zealand art and design, with open living spaces and four queen ensuite bedrooms that reflect the local environment.
CONTACT DETAILS
230 Jacksons Road, Blenheim
+64 3 520 9147
privateexperience@cloudybay.co.nz
cloudybay.co.nz
MIDDLEHURST STATION
Our brand new purpose-built Lodge boasts seven super king rooms, one Family room in addition to an apartment-style space that has two super king rooms as well as ensuite, kitchenette and living room. Our rooms offer unlimited wifi, have underfloor heating, luxury linen and stunning views!
CONTACT DETAILS
7935 Awatere Valley Road, Awatere Valley +64 27 217 2461
info@middlehurst.co.nz middlehurst.co.nz
BAY OF MANY COVES
Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, nestled between stunning native bush and our secluded bay, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience: Whether you are seeking worldclass cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it here, whatever the season.
CONTACT DETAILS
Arthurs Bay, Queen Charlotte Sound +64 3 579 9771 enquiries@bayofmanycoves.co.nz bayofmanycoves.co.nz
RAETIHI LODGE
We want our guests to feel the intangibles of serenity and peace derived from our surroundings. Raetihi Lodge offers an All-inclusive Exclusive Use private boutique lodge on the 50-acre estate right on the waterfront. The exclusive use includes: Accommodation, all Meals, Private Chef/Staff and we accommodate between 10 – 28 guests.
CONTACT DETAILS
7124 Kenepuru Road, Kenepuru Sound +64 22 397 1828 lodge@raetihilodge.co.nz raetihilodge.co.nz
FURNEAUX LODGE
Located at the head of stunning Endeavour Inlet, is Furneaux Lodge. Surrounded by 800 hectares of native forest and easy access to the Queen Charlotte Track, the lodge offers a range of accommodation options, water and land activities, and award-winning cuisine, including recently being named in the 'Top 10 Most remote restaurants in the world'.
CONTACT DETAILS
Endeavour Inlet, Queen Charlotte Sound +64 274 194 894 groups@marlboroughtourcompany.co.nz furneauxlodge.co.nz
WATERFALL BAY
Arguably the most beautiful house in the Sounds the Glass House showcases true harmony between nature and architecture. The house flows over 300 m2 with a modern fully equipped kitchen with marble benches sits in a stunning dining area which seats 14 people flowing into a lounge with 2 open fire places.
CONTACT DETAILS
Waterfall Bay, Queen Charlotte Sound +64 27 513 8661 info@pictonwa.nz pictonwaterfrontapartments.co.nz
TAILORED FOR IMPACT
Incentive programmes are all about creating extraordinary moments that leave a lasting impression. Marlborough delivers with a collection of unique, world-class experiences designed to inspire, energise, and reward. Whether it’s exclusive wine adventures, immersive cultural encounters, adrenalinefueled challenges, or breathtaking natural wonders, the region offers something truly special for every group.
Let your guests blend their own wine, sail through the stunning Sounds, embark on a high-country expedition, or witness the raw power of a falcon in flight. Looking for something out of the ordinary? We can introduce you to the operators who bring these experiences to life, ensuring your incentive programme is nothing short of unforgettable.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
UNDERGROUND CELLAR
Johanneshof’s adoration for Europe’s century old wine culture led them to establish New Zealand’s first underground rock cellar, which is 50 meters long and 20 meters deep underground. In a magical tour through this subterranean cellar, learn about the ancient Champagne Method and enjoy a private tasting of award-winning wines .
FROM(M) VINE TO WINE
Fromm winery is offering you many different private group experiences: from blind wine tastings to wine tastings for beginners, from making up your own wine blend to bottling your own wine, or you can even go on an organic vineyard experience. If you have a special request, the FROMM team is happy to create something tailor-made for your group.
WINE + FOOD EXPERIENCE
The Wine and Food Centre will provide a boutique visitor experience showcasing the unique wines, beverages and food produced in the Marlborough region. The flexible function space and the private dining facility offers a fantastic wine & food experience for your incentive group.
FRENCH ATMOSPHERE
The icon for Clos Henri is the Sainte Solange Chapel, situated in the heart of our vineyard. The chapel makes the perfect backdrop for a special event and is an idyllic setting for events. Why not incorporate a game of petanque, some French food & music, wear a beret and pretend you are overseas! Or an outdoor movie could be arranged too.
FIRST TASTE TOUR
A private vineyard tour to explore the 'terroir' of Cloudy Bay vineyards in the Wairau Valley and Southern Valleys, followed by a small tour around our Founders Cellar and culminates with a Cellar Door tasting. Hosted by a Cloudy Bay wine ambassador.
BEHIND THE SCENES
From the family of innovative and adventurous winemakers. Enjoy an exclusive winery tour; an unparalleled opportunity to find out more about winemaking, take a peek behind the curtain, walk in the barrel hall, try wine straight from the puncheon or tanks and hear stories from the people that make Allan Scott wine.
CAVE TASTING
The Jackson Estate settlers hut houses the cellar door, designed and built by Brian Massey, art director of The Hobbit trilogy. Hidden from sight they have an exclusive Cave, deep beneath the cellar door. This is where they hold prized vintage selections and can arrange exclusive tastings and events.
GIN EXPERIENCE
Elemental Distillers is a Marlborough based craft distillery delivering premium spirits from individually sourced botanicals. This unique distillery is designed to house the entire production process while promoting sustainability through water re-circulation systems and gravity fed piping. Private tours and bespoke experiences can be arranged on request.
SIP & SAIL AWAY
Begin the day with a tour of Cloudy Bay's Estate Vineyard, followed by a hosted private tasting. Private transport to Picton to enjoy the captivating beauty of one of New Zealand’s most beloved sailing regions, the Marlborough Sounds. Sit back and unwind (or roll up those sleeves and get involved) while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds you.
TIME FOR WINEFULNESS
Fancy a SauvignOMmmm moment? Immerse yourself in a space where mindfulness meets wine. Experience the perfect fusion of wellness and celebration. From yoga, breathwork, and ice baths to meditation and sensory wine experiences, each session is tailored to your group and open to all levels.
MUSSEL ADVENTURE
At Mills Bay Mussels we are on a mission to spread happiness through our delicious, healthy food: the New Zealand Greenshell™ Mussels, grown on our farms in the Marlborough Sounds. Take your group on a culinary adventure, learn how to raw shuck mussels, taste our secret recipes, while also learning about sustainability in marine farming.
EXCLUSIVE MARKET
Why not creating your own Vines Village market featuring the Village retail and tasting rooms, along with local Marlborough artisans. Stroll through the garden village full of entertainment, local producers, and savor the delectable food and drinks on offer. Our village is ready to greet your group for a special market!
PAUA PEARL TOUR
Let us unveil to you one of the best-kept secrets in the jewellery world: New Zealand Abalone-Paua pearls. You will learn directly from the growers how we produce the finest, most beautiful rare pearls in the world at our land-based farm at Arapaoa Island. A once-in-a-lifetime experience your group has dreamed of.
PRIVATE FISHING CHARTER
Hungry for some self-caught Kai Moana? The skippers know the area like no one else and can accommodate your interests whether you are a seasoned fisherman or just keen to get out on the water and take a look around. Fishing is all year round, with services suited to individual group requirements using sustainable fishing practices.
TEAM BUILDING FUN
Our wheels and water package involves your team working together and learning to trust one another with a guided or independent option for mountain biking and sea kayaking. Or go on an adventure race – a competitive outdoor activity challenge filled with paddle sports and team building tasks, that makes for a fun filled team race with a competitive edge.
SWIM WITH DOLPHINS
On this cruise with E-Ko Tours you will be searching for Dusky, Bottlenose, Common, Orca and the rare Hector’s dolphins. Once spotted, your group will first cruise with the dolphins and marvel at their high leaps, backflips, and somersaults during social bouts. Then you get ready to swim if conditions allow.
HOBBIT KAYAK TOUR
Drift down the crystal-clear Pelorus river paddling your own canoe and enjoy New Zealand’s pristine native forest with Pelorus Eco Adventures. The Hobbit Kayak Tour will help you explore this famous filming location by standing on the same rocks & passing the same waterfall as Bilbo and his friends.
DISCOVER SCUBA
Join us for an unforgettable diving adventure with our Day Trips! Based just 3 hours out of Picton, the drive to the lodge is filled with picturesque views of the sounds and native bush. Then we gear up and dive the wreck and reefs. See rare wildlife, including the King Shag, and enjoy plenty of walks and activities for non-divers.
HIGH COUNTRY RETREAT
Middlehurst Station is one of New Zealand’s original high country runs and covers 16,550 hectares. Whether you are looking for a corporate retreat, an exhilarating mountain biking adventure, a hunting expedition, archery, a woolshed tour, horse trekking or a 4WD or Helicopter Station Tour - we have the perfect experience for your group!
FALCON DISPLAY
The Kārearea Falcon Trust is dedicated to protecting and restoring New Zealand’s only endemic bird of prey. Join us for an up-close encounter and private flying display. Learn about these remarkable birds and discover how you can support our mission to help the kārearea population thrive.
PRIVATE CRUISE
Relax and unwind while you cruise in the tranquil Marlborough Sounds. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood straight from the source or exploring a sanctuary that’s helping to protect New Zealand’s treasured kiwi, a private cruise offers a truly immersive way to experience the region’s rich marine life and, stunning landscapes.
AVON VALLEY LODGE
Go on a smaller premium hunting experience with easy access to hunt all New Zealand’s varied game animals. Complement this with trout fishing in the crystal-clear waters on the back door. Try long distance shooting or “The Governors Rest”, the region’s only fully automated sporting clay bird system. Delicious meals are available too
SOLAR SYSTEM TOUR
One of the wonderful things about an outdoor observatory is you can enjoy the beauty of the land as well as the sky. Journey through our tī kōuka (cabbage tree) reserve to our purpose built crater and enjoy the incredible deep sky objects seen through our range of telescopes.
LUXE FARM WALK & STAY
From curated high country walks to luxurious glamping and gourmet catering, our bespoke incentive experiences are designed to impress. We also offer private meeting facilities for up to 20 guests—ideal for strategy sessions, team building, or day retreats. Everything is thoughtfully arranged to suit your group and delivered with signature Aschworth hospitality.
HISTORIC SHIP COVE
Meretoto/Ship Cove was Captain James Cook’s favourite New Zealand base during his three voyages of exploration. The area holds key cultural heritage stories told in a beautiful, sheltered cove with a lush coastal forest backdrop. Bring a Maori group out for a cultural demonstration, or even look at hiring some Wakas to explore the neighbouring coves and bays.
SCENIC FLIGHTS
Take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the wild, beautiful and remote atmosphere of this special part of the world. Pelorus Air’s Water and Wilderness scenic flights over Marlborough make an outstanding spectacle of this unique land and seascape. There are a variety of scenic flight options for 2-11 people.
YACHT CHARTER
For small business groups, Voila offers a fantastic platform to boost morale of employees and implement team building exercises in a unique and memorable setting. Relax and unwind, enjoy the tranquility of sailing on the smooth waters or take the wheel and feel the adrenaline rush in the palm of your hands.
SKY-HIGH THRILLS
Take to the skies for an unforgettable aviation experience. Soar above the stunning landscapes on a joy flight, feel the adrenaline rush of a fighter aircraft, or enjoy a private aerial display featuring vintage warbirds. Whether you're seeking adventure or a spectacular show, Omaka offers a truly exhilarating way to experience flight.
HELI EXPERIENCES
If your group loves fresh food and fine wines this is the exclusive tour for you. Follow the Marlborough Sounds coastline before arriving on D’Urville Island for a spot of helicopter reef fishing. Once we have a decent catch we hop across to a sheltered bay where your freshly caught fish will be prepared alongside fresh local produce.
NOPERA GOLF
This truly spectacular 9-hole course set on a working farm certainly does justice to its wonderful surroundings. Come on a tailored golf trip to stunning Nopera Bay Golf Course in the Kenepuru Sound. We can arrange picnics and BBQ’s at the Clubhouse along with a game of croquet for those less keen of a round of golf.
SEAMLESS SOLUTIONS
We’re here to make organising seamless with impartial advice and access to the region’s best support services. From transport solutions—whether by road, water, or air—to catering, photography, AV, event styling, and entertainment, we’ll connect you with the right operators to ensure every detail is covered.
Our team can also assist with coordinating familiarisation visits, arranging site inspections, and facilitating meetings with service providers, giving you the confidence to deliver a flawless event. Plus, our comprehensive Business Events Guide provides a curated directory of trusted suppliers, making it easy to find everything you need in one place.
With our local knowledge and industry connections, we’ll help streamline the planning process—so you can focus on creating an exceptional Marlborough experience.
FANTASTIC SUPPORT SERVICES
