Excursion Marlbourgh region farm and winery tour at Picton

The wealth of the Marlborough region has been built up over many decades on the efforts of its early sheep farmers, but since the mid-seventies the wine industry has prospered. Now nearly 60% of New Zealand's grapes are grown in the Marlborough region grown mainly on the Wairau Plain and Awatere Valley, with Sauvignon Blanc making up 80% of total production. Highlights of this half-day tour include visiting a typical working sheep farm as well as one of Blenheim's leading boutique wineries.

Wairau Valley

Enjoy the diverse changes in scenery from rugged steep forestry hill country to the flat fertile Wairau Valley, the home of the world famous Marlborough wine region. Travelling with your driver-guide through the wine region is stunning with row upon row of grapes as far as the eye can see, all set to the backdrop of the barren Wither Hills.

Kaituna Ridges Farm or Meadowbank Farm

Kaituna Ridges Sheep Station, a 1976 acre (800 hectare) sheep and cattle farm for a private sheep dog demonstration. Watch as the shepherd and dogs work together to bring the sheep in from the paddocks into the pens and then watch a sheep shearing and wool carding demonstration. (based on availability and timing)

If Kaituna Ridges Farm is not available, a stop will be made at Meadowbank Farm. A working sheep and cattle farm. Watch as the shepherd and dogs work together to bring the sheep in from the paddocks into the pens and then watch a sheep shearing and wool carding demonstration.

Winery

From the farm commence your drive into the wine region. Marlborough is recognized as one of the premium wine regions of the world. It's sunny, but relatively cool climate, makes it an ideal region for producing top quality wine with distinctive zesty fruit flavours. The quintessential home of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

The tour concludes back at the pier.

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair; however, guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach via the bus steps and manage some uneven surfaces. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages.