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Marlborough Recreation
Marlborough's high sunshine hours and temperate climate make it possible to enjoy the region's attractions pretty much all year round.
The Marlborough Sounds are a vast network of stunning scenic bays, fishing spots, water sports offering everything from kayaking to yachting. There’s also great fishing, mountain biking and spectacular walking, particularly along the Queen Charlotte Track.
Marlborough | Tourism New Zealand
Recreation centres | Marlborough District Council
Sports clubs and social groups
New Zealanders enjoy a huge range of sporting activities - the Sport New Zealand website lists everything from Aikido to Zen Do Kai! Check the site to see what’s available in your area and how you can get involved. Joining a club or team is a great way to meet people.
Find a sport | Sport New Zealand
Clubs in Marlborough | Citizen's Advice Bureau
Outdoors
Tracks and walks
There are many opportunities to stretch your legs, clear your lungs and get close to nature on the walkways and tracks you’ll find wherever you go in New Zealand. Check the Department of Conservation site to find the great walks available in the Marlborough and surrounding regions. You'll find the parks and open spaces available near you on the Marlborough District Council website.
Tracks and walks in Marlborough | DOC
Parks and reserves | Marlborough District Council
Playgrounds
Marlborough offers plenty of opportunities for children to play in safe playgrounds, including a number of skateboard parks. Check with the local council to find those near you.
Playgrounds | Marlborough Council
Hunting and fishing rules
Both fishing and hunting are a big part of life for many in the Marlborough region. Check the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Fish and Game NZ websites for full information about licences and restrictions on hunting and fishing in freshwater. The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has information about the rules of fishing in the sea.
It is very important to be aware of restrictions as there can be serious penalties for breaching them.
Nelson/Marlborough | Fish and Game NZ
Challenger area fishing rules | MPI
Cat and dog regulations
New Zealand has various laws about looking after and controlling dogs, cats, and other animals. Each council has their own bylaws so check out the Marlborough Council website for details.
Dogs | Marlborough District Council
Cats | Marlborough District Council
Cycling
The Marlborough region features great tracks through beautiful scenery. In particular, the Queen Charlotte Track ride is said to be one of the greatest track rides in New Zealand. For more about the tracks available see the links below.
Mountain biking in Marlborough
Art and culture
Museums and galleries
There are a number of museums and art galleries to visit in the Marlborough region. You'll find details of each on the NZ Museums website.
Markets
You can get a taste of Marlborough's great produce direct from the local producer, at the Marlborough Farmers' market every Sunday morning.
The Over the Tracks market organised by Blenheim Rotary Club is held in the Blenheim Railway Station car park from 8am-2pm on Saturdays.
Marlborough Hospice runs the Redwood market in the Tavern car park in Cleghorn St in Blenheim from 8am-12am.