Blenheim is located near the top of the South Island and is known for its rich wine industry with over 50 of wineries located along the towns edges and many more within short driving distance. However wine tasting and tours aren’t the only attraction in Blenheim, there are lots of other fun and adventurous activities to occupy your time while visiting. Here are 5 of the top activities in Blenheim.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Omaka aviation heritage centre is Blenheim’s pride-and-joy with it’s spectacular collection of both original and replica war aircrafts on show. Peter Jackson, Wingnut Films and Weta Workshop came together to produce this amazing attraction which is also filled with rare and unique memorabilia and dramatic depictions of past war-time events. After the excitement enjoy a coffee at the attached cafe to complete your visit.
The Millennium art gallery
This art gallery is located right in the centre of Blenheim and is filled with stunning art ranging from photography and paintings to sculptures and crafts. The beauty of the Millennium art gallery is the emphasis on locally produced exhibitions, making for a culturally rich viewing experience.
The River Queen Riverboat cruises
The River Queen is a family owned and operated river boat business situated on the Opawa River. Relax on the purpose built boat as you wine and dine while enjoying the peaceful journey up the river towards Cloudy Bay. When The River Queen isn’t traveling you can find her moored at the dock where she is open for coffee and light refreshments. Remember to pop down for a cruise or a coffee and don’t forget the camera, the journey is spectacular.
Wine tours by bike
Wine tours by bike has been ranked ‘Top Tour’ in New Zealand 3 years in a row and has successfully operated for over a decade. As Blenheim is famous for being the largest wine region in New Zealand, you absolutely must experience a Blenheim winery tour. Enjoy leisurely cycling through the quiet countryside for either a half or full day as you explore the vast array of wineries in the district. Don’t worry about the length of the journey, all of the wineries are located within 10 km of Blenheim and the tours are taken at an enjoyable pace along flat roads. Choose a sunny day and head out with friends, as a group or solo, either way you are guaranteed to have an exceptional day.
Blenheim dive centre
If you want to have a go at scuba diving, free-diving or spearfishing look no further than the Blenheim dive centre. Operating for over two decades the crew can cater for experienced divers as well as first-timers. With a variety of dive options, including the famous ‘Koi’ dive you are spoilt for choice. The Koi is a sunken 84ft steamer that once plied the waters of the Nelson region during the early 1900’s, have a chance to view the amazing wreck as well as marine life during a day or night dive.
Written by Jess, a travel blogger for TOP 10 Holiday Parks. They have many Marlborough accommodation options ranging from motels to camping, and a variety of wonderful Blenheim accommodation options to choose from.