Festival-goers can sample the crisp sauvignon blancs that the region is famous for, along with many other delicious varieties of wine, scrumptious local produce and gourmet cuisine. For wine aficionados, there are wine tutorials from the region’s leading winemakers, a food and wine matching competition and, of course, tastings and sales of Marlborough’s award-winning wines.
The festival also celebrates fashion, with its popular Fashion in the Vines competition, and there is musical entertainment from some of New Zealand’s top performers.
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine-growing region and has over 40 cellar doors. There are plenty of winery tours available, including cycle tours, and vineyard restaurants offering superb food in stunning settings.
The Marlborough Sounds are a series of intricate waterways with spectacular coves, islands and peninsulas, crystal clear waters and lush, coastal forest – it is simply breathtaking. The best way to explore the Sounds is on the water. Choose from a range of options including ferry cruises, kayak hire or luxury yacht tours.
The Sounds are also home to the Queen Charlotte Track - 71km of spectacular walking tracks that make up one of New Zealand’s best-known walks. This four or five day walk allows walkers to immerse themselves in the magical Sounds and take in the beautiful coastal views, and native bush and wildlife.