Where the Sauvignon Blanc is Plentiful
Blenheim will welcome you with sunshine, quench your thirst and delight your taste buds. As the producer of 75% of New Zealand’s wine, there’s no better reason to visit.
2,438 hours of sunshine will keep you warm in Marlborough’s largest town. The town is beautifully located with the mountains keeping the heat in and protecting the town from fresh southerly gales. The rows of vines thrive in this environment and produce the majority of New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc. It’s crisp, it’s unique, and it is rightly known as some of the world’s best wine. Blenheim provides sunrise to sunset photo opportunities that make a great addition to your Coastal Pacific train journey.
A Booming Wine Industry
Named “The Beaver” by early European settlers due to its regular flooding, Blenheim was originally a small farming-related community that turned into a booming wine industry giant.
In 1855, an 8.2 earthquake deepened the Opawa River making it navigable for ships and allowing Blenheim to trade profitably. As Blenheim’s growth increased, it took the title of Marlborough’s capital in 1865.
The flooding wasn’t all bad news, as the soil now provides the ideal environment for growing grapes for wine, and has made Blenheim a focal point in wine growing. Internationally known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Blenheim now boasts 65 wineries and 290 grape growers of Sauv, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer.
Things to do in Blenheim
Food and wine are always on the agenda when stopping in Blenheim. But before you fill your stomach, get out and explore what the town has to offer. To make sure you don’t miss out, here are our top picks.
Blenheim's Must-Do Activities
From savoring world-renowned Sauvignon Blancs on a leisurely wine tour to exploring the intricate tapestry of local history at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Blenheim offers a mosaic of must-do activities for every traveller.
Discover Blenheim
Whether you're here for a day, or a few days, there are so many things to discover and see. Here are a few tips about where to stay and how to get around.
Blenheim Railway Station
Located in the heart of town, Blenheim Railway Station provides easy walking access to the town centre.
Find out more about the station, including maps, parking, and amenities and the Coastal Pacific timetable.