MARLBOROUGH Incentive Guide
Meet in Marlborough
Closer than you think. Greater than you imagine.
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 Marlborough Team
Contact us
Destination Marlborough is a division of Marlborough District Council and the regional tourism organisation for Marlborough.
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.
conference@MarlboroughNZ.com
+64 27 203 2595
MarlboroughNZ.com/meet
Business Events Marlborough
Destination 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, gifting options 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 proposals 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.
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PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL
Make use of our free use of images, videos, maps, regional brochures and more.
Connectivity & Transport
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 operates several daily direct flights from Auckland and Wellington to Blenheim and also offers connections from other destinations across the network via Auckland and Wellington. airnewzealand.com
Originair flies direct from Christchurch, Wellington and Palmerston North to Blenheim. Originair also offers group travel and charter services tailored to the specific needs of businesses. originair.co.nz
Sounds Air flies direct from Wellington and Paraparaumu to Blenheim and from Wellington to Picton. They can also offer a variety of charter services catered to your specific needs. soundsair.com
Air Chathams can service air charter needs with a range of aircraft options throughout the country. accharters.co.nz
›› BY SEA
Within 3.5-hours you can cross the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton with either the Bluebridge or Interislander passenger and vehicle ferry.
bluebridge.co.nz | interislander.co.nz
›› BY ROAD
Marlborough is well-connected by bus services and state highways from Christchurch, Nelson and the West Coast. intercity.co.nz | journeys.nzta.govt.nz
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BY RAIL
Enjoy a custom group journey with the Coastal Pacific train or Rail Journeys New Zealand and come on one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand's railways. The train travels along the scenic Kaikōura coast in either direction from Christchurch to Picton or Picton to Christchurch (via Blenheim). greatjourneysnz.com railjourneysnewzealand.co.nz
Travel times
FLY DIRECT
Auckland to Blenheim 1hr 30 mins
Wellington to Blenheim 30 mins
Christchurch to Blenheim 50 mins
Palmerston North to Blenheim 40 mins
Paraparaumu to Blenheim 35 mins
Wellington to Picton 30 mins
FERRY
Wellington to Picton 3hr 30 mins
TRAIN
Christchurch to Blenheim 5hrs 10 mins
Christchurch to Picton 5hrs 40 mins
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
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 large coaches, to luxury cars and mini vans, all available for private bookings. Taxis and shuttles operate day and night, ensuring reliable transport at any time.
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 and leaving no trace
Travel safely, showing care and consideration for all
Respect culture, travelling with an open heart and mind
Destination Marlborough is a member of the TIA Sustainability commitment, encompassing the four elements of tourism sustainability: Economic, Visitor, Community and Environment.
The Four Valleys
Te Tau Ihu O Te Waka a M ā ui 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.
›› WAIRAU - 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 cafés, 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 - WAITOHI 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. 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.
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HOIERE - PELORUS, KENEPURU, HAVELOCK
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 - 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
Facts & Figures
Marlborough has consistently taken the crown for the sunniest region in New Zealand, e.g. in 2024 with 2,769 hours, sharing the top ranking with Taranaki, 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
Helpful contacts
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
›› 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: 16°C – 19°C (61°F – 66°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: 20°C TO 26°C (68°F – 79°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: 17°C TO 21°C (62°F – 70°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: 10°C TO 16°C (53°F – 61°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.
Contact details
2 Hutcheson Street, Blenheim +64 3 520 8558 sales@mctt.co.nz whitehaventheatre.co.nz
BARREL HALL DINING
Two purpose-built boardrooms, complete with data projectors and open fires, provide an inviting setting for private meetings, executive retreats or intimate cocktail gatherings. The highlight is the Barrel Hall, where up to 14 guests can dine amongst barrels of next year's Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for a truly memorable experience.
Contact details
211 New Renwick Road, Burleigh +64 3 520 8284
ben.godsiff@lionco.com witherhills.co.nz
MOVIE SET LIKE SCENES
Host an extraordinary incentive experience amongst rare aircraft and award-winning exhibitions. From intimate dinners to stylish cocktail receptions, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre combines immersive storytelling, iconic aviation history and exceptional Marlborough hospitality in a truly unforgettable setting.
Contact details
79 Aerodrome Road, Omaka +64 3 579 1305 marketing@omaka.org.nz omaka.org.nz
UNDERGROUND FUN
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
CAVE DINING EXPERIENCE
Hidden beneath the winery, Mahi's atmospheric caves provide an unforgettable setting for intimate gatherings. Guests enjoy a candlelit dining experience paired with rare library release wines and older vintages, complemented by a private winery tour between courses. Available for exclusive groups of 6 to 26 guests.
Contact details
9 Terrace Road, Renwick +64 3 572 8859 max@mahiwine.co.nz mahiwine.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
SECLUDED & PEACEFUL
Nestled beside the river and surrounded by mountains and native greenery, Avon Valley Lodge offers a versatile setting for incentives and retreats. Located just 30 minutes from Blenheim, the lodge features comfortable indoor spaces and expansive lawns for outdoor dining or team activities, creating a memorable environment.
Contact details
715 Avon Valley Road, Waihopai Valley +64 21 767 704 carrie@avonvalleylodge.co.nz avonvalleylodge.co.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
THE MARLBOROUGH
Located in the heart of Marlborough’s wine region, The Marlborough Boutique Hotel is a beautifully restored 1901 property offering ten contemporary rooms designed for comfort and style. Available for exclusive use, it is ideal for corporate retreats, with capacity for up to 20 guests and future Vineyard Suite expansion increasing capacity to 66 guests.
Contact details
776 Rapaura Road, Rapaura +64 3 570 5700 reservations@themarlborough.co.nz themarlborough.co.nz
SECRET SHACK ESCAPE
The Cloudy Bay Secret Shack is a rare opportunity to stay at an exclusive designer retreat usually not available for private bookings. Featuring four queen ensuite bedrooms and expansive openplan living spaces, it showcases New Zealand art and design inspired by the surrounding landscape, offering a premium Marlborough experience.
Contact details
230 Jacksons Road, Blenheim
+64 3 520 9147
privateexperience@cloudybay.co.nz cloudybay.co.nz
MIDDLEHURST STATION
Experience the rugged beauty of Marlborough's High Country. Set on a 16,500-hectare working merino station, The Quarters combines luxury accommodation with authentic station experiences. Enjoy 4WD farm tours, paddock picnics and evenings around the fire pit beneath spectacular dark skies for an unforgettable incentive retreat.
Contact details
7935 Awatere Valley Road, Awatere Valley +64 27 217 2461 info@middlehurst.co.nz middlehurst.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
BAY OF MANY COVES
Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, nestled between stunning native bush and a 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
Set on a 50-acre waterfront estate, Raetihi Lodge offers an all-inclusive, exclusive-use boutique retreat for 10 to 28 guests. Accommodation, chef-prepared meals and dedicated staff are all included, creating a serene setting where teams can reconnect, recharge and be inspired by the surrounding natural beauty.
Contact details
7124 Kenepuru Road, Kenepuru Sound +64 22 397 1828 lodge@raetihilodge.co.nz raetihilodge.co.nz
FURNEAUX LODGE
Set at the head of Endeavour Inlet, Furneaux Lodge is a distinctive Marlborough Sounds retreat surrounded by 800 hectares of native forest. Enjoy the Queen Charlotte Track, land and water adventures, and exceptional cuisine at its restaurant, recognised among the world's Top 10 Most Remote Restaurants.
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 invites guests to discover wine in a more personal way through exclusive, handson experiences. From blind tastings and organic vineyard walks to creating your own blend or bottling your own wine, every visit can be tailored to your group's interests for a truly memorable Marlborough experience.
WINE + FOOD EXPERIENCE
Wine + Food Experience Marlborough brings the region's finest flavours together under one roof. Incentive groups can enjoy curated tastings, local artisan produce and personalised food and wine experiences in an elegant setting designed for connection, celebration and discovering the best of Marlborough.
FRENCH ATMOSPHERE
Set amongst the vines, Clos Henri's Sainte Solange Chapel provides an enchanting setting for exclusive incentive experiences. Embrace the French art of living with pétanque, seasonal cuisine, music and fine wine, or create a memorable outdoor movie evening beneath the Marlborough sky.
FIRST TASTE TOUR
Discover the story behind one of New Zealand's most iconic wine brands. Hosted by a dedicated Cloudy Bay Ambassador, this private experience explores the estate's vineyards in the Wairau and Southern Valleys, before continuing with a visit to the Founders Cellar and a hosted tasting at the Cellar Door.
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
Beneath Jackson Estate's distinctive cellar door lies a hidden cave reserved for rare vintages and unforgettable moments. Incentive groups can enjoy exclusive tastings and hosted experiences in this intimate underground setting, discovering prized vintage selections and the stories behind the wines that define Marlborough.
GIN & BEER EXPERIENCE
Celebrate Marlborough's flourishing craft beverage culture through exclusive tastings. Meet the makers and gain behind-the-scenes insights into the creativity, passion and innovation behind the region's award-winning spirits and brews. Relax, connect and celebrate in welcoming taprooms and tasting spaces designed to bring people together.
SIP & SAIL AWAY
Set sail through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds on a private yacht charter blending relaxation, adventure and exceptional wine. Enjoy hosted tastings as you unwind on the water, or take the helm and get involved, creating an unforgettable incentive experience in one of New Zealand's most spectacular sailing destinations.
TIME FOR WINEFULNESS
SauvignOM creates memorable experiences where Marlborough's wine culture meets wellbeing, creativity and connection. From mindful wine tastings and sensory challenges to movement, breathwork and team experiences, each session is tailored to engage delegates, foster connection and leave a lasting impression.
MUSSEL ADVENTURE
Discover the story of New Zealand Greenshell™ mussels with Mills Bay Mussels. Incentive groups can enjoy a hands-on culinary experience, mastering the art of raw mussel shucking, tasting signature recipes and gaining insight into sustainable marine farming in the pristine waters of the Marlborough Sounds.
EXCLUSIVE MARKET
Celebrate the best of Marlborough with an exclusive Vines Village market experience, featuring its collection of retail and tasting rooms alongside talented local artisans. Stroll through the picturesque garden setting, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in Marlborough's outstanding food, wine and craft beverages.
PAUA PEARL TOUR
Uncover one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets with Arapawa Blue Pearls. Incentive groups are invited behind the scenes of this unique landbased pāua pearl farm on Arapaoa Island, learning directly from the growers while discovering the craftsmanship behind some of the world's rarest and most beautiful pearls.
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
Challenge your team to step outside their comfort zone through shared adventures and friendly competition. From sea kayaking and mountain biking to problem-solving challenges and adventure races, these tailored experiences build trust, encourage collaboration and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.
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
Venture into the remote beauty of the Marlborough Sounds for an unforgettable underwater adventure. Explore spectacular wrecks and reefs, encounter rare wildlife and share extraordinary moments in one of New Zealand's most pristine marine environments, with experiences tailored for divers and non-divers alike.
HIGH COUNTRY RETREAT
Experience one of New Zealand's original high country stations at Middlehurst Station. From mountain biking, horse trekking and archery to 4WD and helicopter station tours, hunting expeditions and behind-the-scenes woolshed experiences, every adventure is tailored to create an unforgettable incentive escape.
RESTORE & RECONNECT
Embrace a slower pace with Marlborough's tailored wellbeing experiences. Set amongst vineyards, coastlines and native landscapes, restorative retreats can bring together yoga, breathwork and holistic treatments with mobile saunas and thought-provoking speakers, leaving guests feeling refreshed and re-energised.
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 ESCAPE
Escape to 5,000 acres of untouched wilderness with Avon Valley Lodge's bespoke incentive experiences. From clay bird shooting and trout fishing to chef-led cuisine and helicopter flights to a remote mountain-top tasting hut. Enjoy premium spirits, spectacular scenery and authentic High Country hospitality in the heart of Marlborough.
SOLAR SYSTEM TOUR
Journey through Omaka Observatory's tranquil tī kōuka reserve to a purpose-built crater for an unforgettable celestial experience. Explore the wonders of the night sky through powerful telescopes and discover distant galaxies, star clusters and deep-sky objects beneath Marlborough's dark skies.
LUXE FARM WALK & STAY
From curated high country walks to luxury glamping and gourmet dining, bespoke incentive experiences are designed to impress. Private meeting facilities for up to 20 guests provide an ideal setting for strategy sessions, team retreats and meaningful connections, all 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. Rich in cultural heritage and framed by lush coastal forest, this sheltered cove offers opportunities for Māori cultural encounters and memorable waka experiences exploring the surrounding 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.
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
Unleash your group's creative side through immersive experiences led by Marlborough's talented makers and artisans. From French patisserie and interactive cooking classes to artistic and hands-on workshops, each experience offers a unique opportunity to connect, create and be inspired.
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
Take incentive travel to new heights with bespoke helicopter experiences across Marlborough. From remote vineyard lunches and high country tastings to secluded Marlborough Sounds escapes and exclusive reef fishing adventures off D'Urville Island, helicopter experiences unlock access to some of the region's most extraordinary places.
NOPERA GOLF
Overlooking the stunning Kenepuru Sound, Nopera Bay Golf Course combines spectacular scenery with laid-back charm. Tailored golf experiences on this unique nine-hole course can be complemented by picnics, BBQs and croquet, offering an unforgettable Marlborough escape to connect, unwind and celebrate together.
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
