Itinerary

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DAY ONE                                                AT, D 

Our festive Christmas tour begins with travel to Tauranga Airport for check-in and onward flights via Auckland to Blenheim. There will be time in Auckland to purchase lunch to eat on the plane, or you can bring lunch from home if you prefer. Our first stop in the Marlborough region is Longfield Cottage in Fairhall for afternoon tea and a garden tour. Longfield is a nationally recognised garden of significance, renowned for its grand European-inspired garden rooms, classical statues, fountains and formal plantings that evoke the elegance of an Italian villa garden. Following this memorable visit, we will continue to the Scenic Hotel Marlborough in central Blenheim. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to settle into rooms or enjoy a gentle walk through Seymour Square, before gathering for a convivial social hour at the hotel’s Savvy Bar followed by dinner.  

DAY TWO                                               B, L, D 

Our first stop is the beautiful Westgrove Garden in Blenheim, a mature home garden and vineyard featuring cloud pruning, an elegant formal courtyard, and timeless landscaping that continues to evolve. From there, indulge in sweet treats at Makana Confections before heading to the nearby Bhudevi Garden—an award-winning property recognised as a Garden of Regional Significance. Bhudevi has expansive grounds which include a native garden with tranquil seating areas, a secluded rock and fern garden, and elevated terraces with sweeping views over vineyards to the Richmond Range. The day continues with wine tasting and a two-course lunch at Allan Scott Winery, followed by a private water transfer from Picton to Furneaux Lodge. Settle in and unwind in this stunning and remote paradise in Endeavour Inlet. 

DAY THREE                                            B, L, D 

Enjoy a peaceful day of relaxation in the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Begin the morning with a cooked breakfast at the restaurant before choosing how to spend your day— perhaps with a gentle walk along part of the scenic Queen Charlotte Track or simply unwinding in the tranquil surroundings of Furneaux Lodge. The lodge offers plenty of leisure options, from exploring native bush trails and birdwatching to kayaking in the sheltered waters or lounging with a book by the water’s edge. A light lunch will be served at Furneaux Lodge, followed by more free time to relax or connect with fellow travellers. In the evening, gather for a social drink at the lodge’s welcoming bar before sitting down to enjoy a delicious dinner, rounding off a rejuvenating day in this idyllic setting.

DAY FOUR                                              B, L, D                 

Christmas Day

Start your Christmas Day with a cooked breakfast at the restaurant before enjoying some free time to unwind or explore the surroundings. Santa has made a special stop at Furneaux Lodge  join us late morning for the festivities. A delicious Christmas buffet lunch will be served at the lodge. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the hot tub, swimming in the sheltered bay, or take a short 10-minute walk to see the ancient, 1000 years old, rimu tree nestled in native bush behind the lodge. Later, gather in the bar for a social drink before enjoying a festive dinner. To end the day, take a gentle evening stroll to discover the magical glow worms nearby.

DAY FIVE                                                B, MT, L, D

After a leisurely start to the day, we embark on a scenic cruise to historic Ship Cove. Enjoy morning tea on board as you learn about the region’s aquaculture industry from the knowledgeable crew. Take in the stunning Marlborough Sounds scenery and keep watch for seals, dolphins, and native birdlife. At historic Ship Cove, once visited by Captain Cook, enjoy a short 20-minute return walk to a nearby waterfall through lush native bush. A delicious buffet lunch is served onboard as you cruise back to the lodge. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps hire a rod and try your luck fishing off the jetty. In the evening, we savour our final dinner in the paradise that is Furneaux Lodge.

DAY SIX                                                   B, L  

After breakfast, we depart Furneaux Lodge by private water transfer to Picton. On arrival there is free time to explore the waterfront town, browse local shops, visit a museum or relax at a café. The group will then rejoin the coach and travel to Wairau River Winery and Number 11 Restaurant for lunch. Wairau River Wines is a family-owned Marlborough winery renowned for its elegant, sustainably produced wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Wairau Valley. Here we enjoy a relaxed lunch alongside a selection of their wines. The afternoon continues with a guided visit to Willows Green in Blenheim, a Garden of National Significance featuring romantic, formal garden rooms, sweeping lawns, mature trees and abundant perennial borders set around a historic homestead. Our Marlborough festive tour concludes with transfer to the airport and return flights home, taking with you great memories and new friendships.