Stuff Travel Guide: Marlborough

New Zealand’s Amalfi Coast

In Marlborough, you’ll find New Zealand’s version of the winding Amalfi Coast, only with cliffside farms rather than vineyards. Officially known as Croisilles Harbor – French Pass Road, it is one of the country’s best hidden gems. The road is only 60 kilometers but it will take you over an hour and a half to drive. It is very windy, sometimes along the ridge line, with towering cliffs to the bays below. At almost every turn you’ll see a new secluded bay, surrounded by native bushes and emerald waters. Read more

The surprising alien salt lake of Marlborough

The Red Sea is too far away for most of us to visit. Even Australia’s pink lakes are currently off-limits, but the result of the same conditions that make these bodies of water so distinctive can be seen just a half-hour drive from Blenheim. The surprisingly exotic Grassmere Lake (Kāpara te hau), which ranges from pale to purple, is caused by the presence of tiny algae and prawns in the water. You cannot swim here, but continue on the road and you will come to Marfells beach. Read more

The most scenic postal route in the world

the Pelorus courier boat departs three days a week from the small town of Havelock, to sail the Marlborough Sounds, delivering not only mail, but more, to the people who live nestled in the bays along this convoluted coastline, some of them them so far away that they have no road access. On board the comfortable catamaran, everyone is greeted and educated before passing beaches, bush-covered hills and mussel farms. Read more

A floating hotel at sea

Renting a yacht is like something only the rich and famous do. However, Sounds under sail offers a luxury night afloat on its 32 feet for $ 395 per person, which includes dinner in a secluded bay with local wine. The skipper will even row ashore for the night to allow you to enjoy the atmosphere. The boat is operated by Phil and Deborah Clegg, who have exceptional knowledge of the area – and will be happy to let you take the helm and introduce you to sailing. Read more

Kayaking with stingrays

One of the best ways to explore sounds is to use Sea kayaking adventures, which has a base in the coastal village of Anikiwa. A guided tour will make you feel removed from civilization in minutes as you glide along the bush-covered cliffs. Guides are excellent at spotting wildlife, including dolphins and the occasional killer whale, which come looking for stingrays. As you paddle deeper into the Sounds, it’s common to spot huge stingrays, which show up for a closer look. Read more