Wellington - Nelson - Wellington

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Day 2 : Nelson to Blenheim

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

	Travel Time	Km	(Miles)
Nelson - Murchison	1 hr	88	55
Murchison - Blenheim	1.25 hrs	102	64
Totals for Day	2.25 hrs	190	119

Nelson - Murchison

88 km (55 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway/Arterial

The city of Nelson is home to a fascinating community of beach, bush and art lovers. From here you can organise yourself an eco-adventure or become immersed in the local creative culture.

The shortest route to the Nelson Lakes National Park begins on State Highway 6. After Richmond, a lively community at the head of beautiful Tasman Bay, a string of settlements leads you to Belgrove, where you'll turn left towards St Arnaud. Enjoy a mixture of forest, farmland and hill country until you reach Lake Rotoiti.

The alpine village of St Arnaud sits on the edge of the lake against a stunning backdrop of mountains. It's the perfect base for exploring the Nelson Lakes National Park, New Zealand's second-largest national park. There are magnificent hiking trails—short and long. Local adventure operators offer you a choice of kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, horse trekking and 4WD motorbiking.

Murchison - Blenheim

102 km (64 miles)
Approximately 1.25 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway

The alpine village of St Arnaud sits on the edge of Lake Rotoiti against a stunning backdrop of mountains. It's the perfect base for exploring the Nelson Lakes National Park, New Zealand's second-largest national park. There are magnificent hiking trails—short and long. Local adventure operators offer you a choice of kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, horse trekking and 4WD motorbiking.

For most of your journey to Blenheim, you'll follow the Wairau River. Spread a picnic rug by the river bank or flick a rod and try for a trout. From the Wairau River Valley, walking tracks lead into the Mount Richmond Forest Park. When you reach Renwick, which is surrounded by vineyards, it will be clear that you've arrived in wine country.

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.

View more Wellington driving routes.