Marlborough/Tasman - NZ’s Sunshine Sisters
We take a look at a part of the country that regularly tops the sunshine hours charts.
If you want to experience New Zealand’s blazing sunshine then you have to head to the top of the South Island. Just make sure you stock up on plenty of sunscreen before you go. These regions are always right up there in terms of sunshine hours and feature some of the most beautiful scenery in the country to boot. We’ll take a brief look at each region and have a look at some of the cool things you can get up to while visiting them.
Marlborough
Marlborough is famous primarily for two things - the Marlborough Sounds and Wine.
The sounds are a collection of ancient sunken river valleys that have been filled by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Within them you can see and do so many things, with most visitors having a go at one of the many walks and hikes. The most popular hike is the Queen Charlotte track, which takes 3-5 days to do to completion, though a lot of people will only walk part of it. Other than hiking you can also go kayaking, mountain biking, yachting, sightseeing and much more. There is a lot of native wildlife in the sounds and it’s not uncommon to spot whales or pods of dolphins.
Marlborough is known locally as ‘Wine Country’, as it boasts some of the country’s finest vineyards. Most of the vineyards here have won multiple awards, both locally and internationally and take an immense amount of pride in their work. Wine tours are available and events are held year-round to celebrate the region’s association with wine. Many of the wineries also offer delicious food, chosen specifically to pair with their own wine creations.
Tasman
The Tasman region contains incredible scenery, beautiful landscapes, golden beaches, towering mountain ranges and a plethora of activities to partake in. Dotted throughout the region are 17 townships, all with their own unique charm and impossibly happy inhabitants. These townships contain cafes, restaurants and bars with amazing food and atmosphere that should be checked out. Also within the region is the incomparable Abel Tasman National Park. It is New Zealand’s smallest national park, but don’t let this deceive you. It is a veritable coastal paradise with beautiful golden beaches broken up by native bush and clear streams tumbling through mossy valleys. The songs of native birds will echo throughout the trees and shag, gannet and penguin colonies are a common site.
If you would like to visit this stunning part of the country, then contact Rite Price Rentals today and ask about hiring one of our many vehicles. We have cars, vans and trucks for hire to fulfill whatever your needs may be. You can visit one of our branches in Hamilton, Tauranga or Rotorua and speak to one of our friendly staff or call us on 0800 250 251. Rite Price Rentals is New Zealand’s trusted car rental company.
