Wellington to Marlborough

Wellington to Marlborough road trip

Short drive days, huge payoffs—ferry views, sunshine, beaches and vineyards. This is an easy, high-reward campervan trip.

The trip begins in Wellington – our nation’s vibrant capital full of interesting faces and places. 

Cafe-hop your way round and soak up the art, culture and natural beauty of Welly the windy city. We recommend a long black at Fidel’s to fuel the exploring. Don’t miss Te Papa either, a museum that’s far from boring.

Picton’s up next, and to get here you’ll need to board a ferry and cross the Cook Strait – the body of water that separates the North and South Islands of Aotearoa.

The views on the way across are breathtaking, it really is an awesome way to travel. On arrival in picturesque Picton you’ll be right on the Abel Tasman’s doorstep. Here you can walk or kayak through this breathtaking natural park, spotting seals and dolphins on your way.

From Picton, we reckon head to Nelson.

The sunniest city in New Zealand is full of creative types and natural wonders. Golden beaches line the coast, untouched forests border the city and then if you look up you’ll see the rugged mountains that border the pure Nelson lakes. The lakes are well worth the day trip.

Don’t miss Motueka, or ‘Mot’ as it’s more affectionately known.

The region’s worst kept secret boasts three national parks on its doorstep and is minutes from the golden sand of Kaiteri. Peruse the quaint wee craft shops and pick yourself up a nick nack or two to remember your trip.

Blenheim’s the perfect place to end your tour of the middle of the country.

Reflect on your adventure with a glass of vino from one of the region’s world class vineyards then gather yourself for a trip to the stunning Marlborough Sound.