Wellington - Nelson - Wellington

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Day 1 : Blenheim to Wellington

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

	Travel Time	Km	(Miles)
Blenheim - Picton	0.5 hr	28	18
Picton - Wellington	3 hrs	98	61
Totals for Day	3.5 hrs	126	79

Blenheim - Picton

28 km (18 miles)
Approximately 0.5 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway

Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough. You'll find a pleasing selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops and golf courses. Character accommodation is another Blenheim delight—everything from homestays to boutique hotels. There are more than 20 wineries within driving distance of the town, and nearly all of them welcome visitors.

The short drive to Picton takes you across the Wairau Plains past vineyards and wineries. Diversions along the way include a golf course and farm parks.

The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for the Interislander ferry service, which links the North and South islands of New Zealand. It's also the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. Museums and interesting walks will keep you entertained while you’re here.

Picton - Wellington

98 km (61 miles)
Approximately 3 hours
Road Conditions: By Sea

The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for the ferry service that links the North and South islands of New Zealand. It's also the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. Museums and interesting walks will keep you entertained while you're here.

The passage through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait is one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world. The fast ferry makes the trip in just over 2 hours, the cruise-style ferry takes 3 hours. Both types of ferry can transport vehicles. Highlights along the way include the beautiful inlets and coves of the sounds, Cook's Lookout, Tory Channel and Red Rocks seal colony.

Wellington City is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty. As New Zealand's capital, this city is rich in political history.

View more Wellington driving routes.