Marlborough & Nelson

For many travellers, Marlborough and Nelson will be their introduction to what South Islanders refer to as the ‘Mainland’. Having left windy Wellington, and made a white-knuckled crossing of Cook Strait, folk are often surprised to find the sun shining and the temperature 10°C warmer.

Riwaka Valley seen from Hawkes Lookout near Motueka.

©Matt Munro/Lonely Planet

Book
New Zealand Travel Guide
Book

New Zealand

Shop $28.99 USD
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

World Nomads travel insurance
Trusted Partner

Dreaming of Marlborough & Nelson? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your New Zealand trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to New Zealand

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Marlborough & Nelson

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Marlborough & Nelson and beyond