9. Fabulous Marlborough Combo

Fabulous Marlborough Combo includes a scenic bus tour of the Marlbourough region with a1 Shuttles and admission to EcoWorld Aquariuim & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. 

Fabulous Marlborooughscenic bus tour - a1 Shuttles

The tour departs Picton for the 30 minute drive to Blenheim, the first stop is Makana, Boutique Chocolate Factory. There are free samples of these delicious treats which are handmade in front of you, purchase if you wish.

Next stop is optional, Omaka, 'Knights of the Sky' is an exhibition by Sir Peter Jackson (of Lord of the Rings notoriety) and showcases his personal collection of WWI fighter planes in recreated battle scenes. This is a fabulous exhibition and is highly recommended. Alternatively, your driver will take you on to a nearby winery where you can relax and enjoy the view (and maybe a wine) for an hour.

We then take you on to a winery for tastings, there are more than 30 cellar doors to choose from and your guide will choose for a mixed group or take you to the winery of your choice .

Leaving the vineyards behind, we travel through the picturesque Kaituna Valley to Havelock, home of world-famous Green Lipped Mussels. You can enjoy these delicious mussels served in a variety of gourmet dishes from Mills Bay Mussel Restaurant. Alternatively, explore this pretty harbour town and take lunch in one of the local cafes, and don’t forget to visit the Art Gallery.

Return to Picton via Queen Charlotte Drive, to enjoy stunning scenery with photo opportunities. If you are travelling on a cruise ship there is a great opportunity for full view and photos of your ship.

 Please note: entry to the Omaka exhibition is not included and there may be nominal charges for wine tasting depending on the wineries visited, please discuss with your guide.

EcoWorld Aquarium & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre 

Meet amazing Marlborough Sounds creatures up close

Touch our rare living dinosaur (Tuatara - can live up to 250 years)

Get close to rescued Little Penguin*, native fish and more

✓conservation in action  ✓nature     ✓heritage     ✓explore & learn     ✓family–friendly     ✓FUN

Get up close and discover some of the amazing animals that live in our beautiful

Marlborough Sounds.   EcoWorld’s knowledgeable staff share with you
outstanding, intimate animal experiences with our animals that have been
rescued, donated or bred by us.

“New Zealand is a Biological Ark.  80% of New Zealand's native species are

found nowhere else on Earth.  Most of EcoWorld’s animals come from
the  Marlborough Sounds whose nearshore rocky reefs are diverse, capable
of endless surprise, murky, cold and difficult to visit.  Rocky reefs are
haven for rare and endangered species which contributes to their fascination
which we share with you.”  

John
Reuhman  Director

(*Exhibits
may change without notice)