Five days in Marlborough/Abel Tasman Area
 

My wife and I will be in this area in mid November at the end of a month-long visit to Australia and NZ. Would appreciate suggestions on where to go and stay. Tentative plans are either, two nights in Blenheim or Picton area, one night someplace in the Sounds, and two nights at the Resurgence near Mouteka with day trip to Abel Tasman. We're interested in walking, biking, seeing the ocean and to a lesser extent some wineries. Suggestions?

Hi bouchee -

Welcome to one of my favorite parts of the South Island. So much to see, so little time!

If you opt for a night in the sounds, I highly recommend Bay of Many Coves resort. Keep in mind it's not on the Queen Charlotte Track although you might be able to arrange a dinghy to take you to a walk in the vicinity if that appeals to you. Otherwise, BOMC is about relaxing, eating good food, hanging out and soaking up the scenery.

Two nights in Picton will give you one full day for walking a section of the Queen Charlotte Track or taking the mailboat (highly recommend both) but will leave little time for exploring the wineries of nearby Blenheim and having a nice winery lunch - IMO and IME you need a minimum of two full days in the area to do both.

I can recommend a nice little out-of-the-way Air BnB between Picton and Blenheim if you're interested. And a great winery for lunch!

Mel

I'd welcome your B&B recommendations. I'm finally heading over that way later in the year.

Hi margo -

Lucky you heading to the top of the South Island!

I highly recommend these; both self-contained, lovely Kiwi hospitality.

Tasman Green is listed on several websites and located in Tasman, a small village between Nelson and Mouteka. Rarangi is located between Blenheim and Picton, a bit off the beaten track (which is why we chose it):

https://www.booking.com/hotel/nz/tas...dio.en-gb.html

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1670940...DtnHNEQENBauRL

Thanks, Mel

I have friends in Motueka (one of the reasons for the visit), but Rarangi does look good for a bit of R&R