Blenheim Regional Information

Blenheim is situated on the Wairau Plain, at the meeting point of the Taylor and Opawa Rivers. With a population of nearly 29,000, Blenheim is the main commercial centre in the Marlborough region and the focal point for the world renowned Marlborough wine district.

The history of the region is thought to extend back as far as the 12th century, when Maori populated the sheltered coastal bays in the region. They cultivated crops, including the kumara, or sweet potato, and caught fish from the sea; evidence of food storage can still be seen today. The earliest Europeans in the area were whalers, who were followed later by settlers in 1840.

Today, the region has developed into a wine producing extraordinaire. Blenheim is one of the best places from which to explore the region's famous wineries. The annual Wine Marlborough Festival is held in Blenheim and provides the chance to taste award winning wines and mouthwatering cuisine. At any time of the year, the vineyards are a must for all visitors. The acres around Blenheim are filled with over 50 wineries, making it New Zealand's largest wine producing region. Varieties on offer include sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, riesling and sparkling wines. To sample the wines and gourmet foods of the Marlborough region, a tour of the area's wineries is a great way to spend a day. The region can be explored either by car or, for the adventuresome, by bicycle. Many of the vineyards also operate a cafe or restaurant, often with beautiful outlooks, serving gourmet creations made from locally grown produce.

Back in town, those with an interest in culture will enjoy the Millennium Art Gallery, which exhibits the work of local, national and international artists. Other galleries showcase locally created art and crafts: jewellery, pottery, paintings, glassware and much more are on offer. Blenheim's compact nature makes it easy to wander the town on foot, exploring other attractions such as the central Market Place, with a century-old rotunda and piazza. For more of an insight into Blenheim's history, visit the Brayshaw Museum Park, where the town has been re-created as it appeared in colonial times. Also at the park are the Vintage Car and Farm Machinery Museums.

Navigate with our great Blenheim map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Blenheim weather.

For further information on Blenheim, visit Destination Marlborough.