What's special about the Sutherland Stream valley at Wither Hills?
The GrapevineCity guide
Much of the valley is a QEII National Trust covenant, where native plants are being restored. It's a nice, gentle area to walk through.
Blenheim Questions
Blenheim people helping Blenheim people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Is parking easy at Rifle Range Place on a sunny weekend, or does it fill up?
Will I be sharing the Taylor River Trail with walkers if I cycle out to the dam?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the trail is shared by walkers, runners and cyclists, and dog walkers use it too. There's plenty of room, but keep left and be courteous to other users.
Is there drinking water at the dam, or should I bring my own?
Can I get my luggage moved between stops so I only carry a day pack?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, boat operators will carry your pack between accommodation stops on the track. That works best if you start from Meretoto/Ship Cove, which is the recommended starting point.
Is it easy to find a park at Anakiwa on a weekend, or does the car park fill up?
Can I park for free if I hire a bike in Renwick and ride from there?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, Wine Tours by Bike in Renwick has plenty of free parking at its base, so you can drive out and start your ride from there instead of central Blenheim.
Is there much shade along the route, or is it fully exposed on a hot summer afternoon?
Where's the best place to launch a kayak at Grovetown Lagoon?
The GrapevineCity guide
The best launch spot at present is the corner of the lagoon on the south-western side. Kayaks can be launched on the lagoon itself.
Is it easy to pass walkers on the boardwalk sections when you're on a bike?
Is the water deep at the Ferry Bridge swimming spot on the Wairau?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the water is quite deep and not suitable for non-swimmers. Small sandy areas lead into the water and are popular with locals.
When it's open, is there any shade on the banks by the Ferry Bridge in the afternoon?
How long should I wait after rain before swimming at the Wairau rowing club?
The GrapevineCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming. Rain washes contaminants into the river, even at spots where the water is normally good quality.
Are there public toilets at the rowing club, or is it best to go before you come?
Does the Taylor River Trail cross the river, and can I get over after rain?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the trail crosses the river in two places. After heavy rain those crossings can be rough or impassable, so don't try to cross then.
What's the river bed like underfoot at the pools, stony or muddy?
Is there a carpark at the start of the Wairau Lagoons Walkway?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is a carpark at the end of Hardings Road, which leaves State Highway 1 about 5 km south of Blenheim. There is also an information area there.
Does anyone run guided walks or bird tours at the Wairau Lagoons?
Is the Whites Bay campsite gate locked at night?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, from Labour Weekend to Easter the gate is closed from 9 pm to 7 am daily. Plan to arrive and leave within those hours, as late ferry arrivals or early departures won't work.
Does the campsite suit vans that aren't self-contained, or is it mostly tents?
How long after heavy rain should I wait before swimming at Ferry Bridge?
The GrapevineCity guide
Stay out for 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, even though the site usually has good water quality. Rain flushes contaminants off the land and into the river.
Is there any shade along the riverbank at Ferry Bridge in the afternoon?
How long should I wait to swim at Craiglockhart after heavy rain?
The GrapevineCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, even though the site usually has good water quality. Rain flushes contaminants from farmland and town land into the river.
Is there room to park near the gravel beach, or do you walk in from the road?
Is there much parking at Governors Bay?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the car park is small and there is no overflow parking. On busy summer days it is best to arrive early.
Does the beach get any shade in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Can I bring my dog to the Robin Hood Bay campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
Only with a DOC permit. Dogs aren't allowed at the campsite without one, and you get the permit from your closest DOC office before you go.
How busy does the campsite get in summer, and how early do you need to arrive for a spot?
Is it safe to walk Wither Hills Farm Park in the middle of a summer day?
The GrapevineCity guide
Often not. In summer the fire risk is high, so entering the park between 9am and 5pm is often not recommended. Signs at the main entrances warn you when fire danger is up.
Is it easy to get a park at Rifle Range Place on a weekend morning?
Is there a carpark near the beach at Anakiwa?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a carpark near the end of the Queen Charlotte Track at Anakiwa, with a shelter and toilets close by.
Is there any shade on the beach in the afternoon, or is it all full sun?
Can I camp overnight at Shelly Beach Reserve in Picton?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, camping isn't permitted at Shelly Beach Reserve. It's a day spot for swimming, picnics and boating access.
Does the water stay shallow for little kids, or does it drop off quickly?
Can I still camp overnight at the old DOC campsite at Okiwi Bay?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the old campsite is closed for overnight stays. You can still use the area for a picnic or to park the car.
Does the water stay shallow a good way out for little kids, or does it drop off quickly?
Are there any steep sections on the Taylor River trail up to Taylor Dam?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the trail up to Taylor Dam is generally flat and easy going. The two river crossings can be rough or impassable after heavy rain, so don't cross then.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle along the Taylor River trail?
Are campfires allowed at Davies Bay campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. Fires aren't allowed at Davies Bay at any time, so bring a portable cooker if you plan to cook.
How noisy does Davies Bay get at night with boats and water-skiers in summer?
Do I need to worry about the sheep and cattle in Wither Hills Farm Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the stock are used to walkers and pose no threat, but give them respect and mind your step. It's a working farm, so leave gates as you find them.
Do you share the Rotary Lookout track with mountain bikers, and is it busy with them?
What time are quiet hours at Cowshed Bay campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
Quiet hours run from 9:30 pm to 6:30 am. Music players need headphones or must be kept at a level the neighbouring campsites can't hear.
How are the tent sites after heavy rain, do they get boggy or flood?
Are bikes allowed on the Mount Vernon Track?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the Mt Vernon Track is shared use, so bikes are allowed. The Quail Stream, Sutherland Stream and Lower Farm tracks nearby are walking only.
Do primary school age kids cope with the climb up to the Mt Vernon lookout?
Can I book a field at Oliver Park for a sports team?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the fields can be booked. North Field and East Field are bookable separately, with East and North combined for winter, and East, North and South fields combined for summer sport.
Is it easy to get a pram around Oliver Park, or is it mostly grass?
Is there parking for the Pukatea Walk at Whites Bay?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is signed parking at the Whites Bay campsite and near the Cable Station.
Are there any information panels at the Cable Station explaining what it was used for?
Is there a bridge over the creek at the start of Black Jack Track?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the bridge at the start has been removed, so you cross the creek on foot. Take care, because the water flow changes.
Is the creek crossing at the start of Black Jack Track okay after a few days of rain?
Is Mark Smith Reserve a big park or just a small local playground?
The GrapevineCity guide
It's a small neighbourhood reserve with play equipment, not a big park. You can get in from Turnbull Drive or from the Taylor River Reserve side.
Are there any picnic tables or seats near the tractor playground?
How much does it cost to camp at Rarangi campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
Adults pay $15 a night and children aged 5 to 17 pay $7.50. Infants aged 0 to 4 are free. Bookings are required, and it is worth booking well ahead from December to February.
Does the Rarangi campsite suit tents, or is it mostly self-contained vans?
How much does it cost to camp at Marfells Beach per night?
The GrapevineCity guide
Adults pay $15 a night and children aged 5 to 17 pay $7.50. Infants aged 0 to 4 are free, and the DOC Campsite Pass can be used here.
How rough is the unsealed bit of road for a campervan or car towing a caravan?
Which rivers feed into the Wairau River near Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
The Branch and Waihopai are the key upper valley tributaries. The Omaka joins the Opaoa, which passes through central Blenheim before it flows into the Wairau.
Is the river safe to get into a day or two after heavy rain, or does it stay high and dirty?
Is there space for kicking a ball or flying a kite at Ballinger Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's open space around the playground for kicking a ball or flying a kite, so it works for more than just the play equipment.
Is there any water play at Ballinger Park, or is it all dry equipment?
What does the name Ōpaoa actually mean?
The GrapevineCity guide
Ōpaoa means smoking or smokey river. Local Māori used the name for the mist that rose from its waters.
Where's the best spot to park and start a walk along the Ōpaoa, and is it busy?
Can you get a guided tour of the collections at Brayshaw Heritage Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, on Heritage Day, 6 February, when the volunteer groups open fully and offer guided or self-guided access to all the collections.
Are there info panels explaining the machinery and Beavertown buildings, or is it mostly just looking?
Is it free to get into the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, entry is ticketed. There are standard ticket prices as well as special passes, so check the admissions page before you go.
Is it all under cover, or do you get wet walking between the exhibitions on a rainy day?
Is there a public toilet at Sheps' Park in Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is a toilet on site. There is also a centrally located car park, so it's an easy stop with kids or dogs.
Is the playground fenced off from the dog area, or can dogs wander right through?
Is there parking at Horton Park in Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the park has extensive parking. You get in from Redwood Street or Stephenson Street.
Is the playground fenced off from the road and the cricket pitch?
Does the Seymour Square clock tower chime on the hour?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the clock tower chimes every hour on the hour.
Is there much shade in the square on a hot afternoon, or is it mostly open?
Is there a separate play area for toddlers at Pollard Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a fenced toddler area with lower equipment, and caregivers get good visibility of it.
How is parking near the playground on a weekend? Easy to find a spot?
Can I buy fuel or food on the Molesworth road, or get phone coverage?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. There is no fuel, no food and no mobile coverage along the Acheron Road through Molesworth, so fill up and bring supplies before you go.
Is it easy to pull over and park at the old cob cottage and accommodation house along the road?
Is Harling Park a good spot for a picnic?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, it has open space for picnicking and play, plus the Japanese garden to wander through.
Is there much shade in the park on a hot afternoon?
Are there public toilets at Lansdowne Park in Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there are public toilets at Lansdowne Park, including a block near the softball fields.
Does anyone know if there are any BBQs you can use at Lansdowne Park, or is it just clubs on game days?
Can you walk down to the Awatere River from the camping area?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the Awatere River is just a short walk from the camping area.
Is there any phone coverage at Blairich, or are you out of range?
Is the Blenheim library in the same building as the art gallery?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the library and the Marlborough Art Gallery share the same purpose-built building. There's also a café called CBD at the Library, plus six meeting rooms.
Is it easy to get around inside with a wheelchair or mobility scooter?
Can I bike through the pine plantations to get into Mount Richmond Forest Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, bikes are allowed on the public access easements through the plantations. The forest owner can close or restrict them after dark, or for safety and forest protection reasons.
Has anyone taken a dog on the Old Man Hut Circuit or the other tracks? How did it go?
Where do I pay to get into Omaka Classic Cars?
The GrapevineCity guide
You buy entry tokens next door at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre on Aerodrome Road. Parking tokens are sold there too.
Do the cars have info boards beside them, or is it mostly just looking at the cars?
Are there separate areas for scooters and skateboards at Blenheim Skate Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, there are no separate zones. Skateboarders, scooter riders, BMX users and inline skaters all share the same open layout at the same time.
Is there a drinking fountain or tap near the skate park, or should I bring water?
Can I take my dog to Bob's Bay?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed at Bob's Bay but they need to be on a lead. Camping isn't permitted at the reserve.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a swim at Bob's Bay, like a shower or tap?
Can I get a Justice of the Peace at the Picton library, and which day?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there are JPs at the Picton library every Wednesday.
Is it easy to find a park near the library on Dublin Street, say on a busy weekday?
How long should I allow for a visit to the Marlborough Museum?
The GrapevineCity guide
Allow about one to two hours for a relaxed visit to the museum itself.
Is it easy to get around with a pram or wheelchair?
Where can I check water quality before swimming around Marlborough?
The GrapevineCity guide
Marlborough's environmental data website has a recreational water quality page covering bathing sites and testing across the region. Check it before you swim.
Is there a decent boat ramp for getting onto the lower Wairau, or is it all bank fishing?
Is there a supermarket near Renwick Domain?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, Renwick village has a supermarket, plus a pub, cafes and bike hire options. The domain sits in the heart of the village, so they are all close by.
Are the toilets at Renwick Domain open overnight for campers?
Who looks after Brian Soper Reserve in Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
Marlborough District Council looks after it, as part of Blenheim's connected network of open spaces.
Is the path through to Mark Smith Reserve easy going with a pram?
Can I use the day-stay area at Wairau Diversion Reserve right now?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. There is currently no access to the day-stay area until construction there is finished. The temporary freedom camping site is still available until further notice.
How many vans are usually there overnight? Does the temporary site fill up by evening?
What's the fine for freedom camping illegally around Blenheim and Marlborough?
The GrapevineCity guide
Infringement fees are now $400 or more depending on the offence. The old fee was $200.
How early do the spots fill up in summer, and is it still possible to get in after dark?
Where do campervans park at Taylor Dam Reserve?
The GrapevineCity guide
Campervans must stay on the upper level only. It isn't safe to camp there in flood conditions or heavy rain, so pick another spot if the weather has turned.
Do the 10 spots at Taylor Dam fill up early on summer weekends?
Is there anywhere for kids to fish near the Ōpaoa in Blenheim?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes. Taylor Stream, a tributary of the Ōpaoa, has a section open only to children, called the Taylor River Family Fishery.
Is it okay to bring a dog along the Ōpaoa banks when fishing through town?
Can I camp overnight at Renwick Domain by the skatepark?
The GrapevineCity guide
Only in a fully self-contained vehicle, with no tents. The domain's responsible camping site has 20 spaces in a marked area, a 2 night maximum, and you can stay from 6pm to 9am.
Does the skatepark get much shade in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Is the public toilet at Taylor River Reserve open all hours?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the public toilet at Taylor River Reserve is open 24 hours.
Can you get a wheelchair right down to the water at the family fishery stretch?
Are there toilets at Mill Flat near Pine Valley Waterfall?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there are long drop toilets at Mill Flat. There are also picnic and camping areas there.
Has anyone taken a dog to Pine Valley Waterfall? Wondering how they coped on the track.
Where do I park when fishing the Wairau River mouth?
The GrapevineCity guide
Park on the open gravel off the road. Keep clear of the boat ramp and of any private property.
Are there any toilets near the river mouth, or should I go before the drive out?
How much does it cost to camp at Rarangi?
The GrapevineCity guide
It's $15 a night for adults and $7.50 a night for children aged 5 to 17. Under 5s are free.
How far is the carry from the car to where you fish on the stones?
Can I have a campfire at Marfells Beach campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. Fires are not allowed at the Marfells Beach campsite at any time.
Can a wheelchair get from the car park down to the water at Marfells Beach?
How long is the Pukaka Valley Track in kilometres?
The GrapevineCity guide
The Pukaka Valley Track is 3.6 km one way. It takes 3 to 5 hours depending on how far you go, so it's a longer outing than the distance suggests.
How steep is the climb once the track leaves the stream? Any bits where you need hands?
Are there any shops at Port Underwood for bait and food?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, there are no shops in the harbour. Buy your bait, ice and food in Blenheim or Picton before you head in.
Does anyone fly fish for kahawai from the shore here, or is it mostly boats?
Can I light a campfire at Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. Fires are not permitted in the reserve.
Is there a boat ramp or anywhere to launch a small boat on the Pelorus near the bridge?
Lots of baches at Ngākuta Bay, can the public still use the shore?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes. Most of the bay is lined with private homes and baches, but the public has access to the whole foreshore area, and there is a small beach popular for swimming.
Is there any shade at the beach in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Are there public toilets at the Wairau Diversion Reserve?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is a public toilet in the reserve. It is accessible and open 24 hours.
Is the Diversion mouth a good spot for kids or beginners to have a go at fishing?
Who looks after the Mistletoe Bay tracks?
The GrapevineCity guide
The Department of Conservation (DOC) looks after the Mistletoe Bay tracks, which include the James Vogel Track and the Peninsula Walk.
Where do you park for the Mistletoe Bay tracks, and does it fill up in summer?
Is the Motuara Island Lookout Track a loop or do you come back the same way?
The GrapevineCity guide
It's not a loop. You walk 1.6 km return and come back down the same track you climbed.
Could someone in a wheelchair get along the Motuara track from the jetty, or is it too rough?
Is there a sandy surf break near Mangamaunu if I want to avoid the rocks?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, Ōkiwi Bay, about 10 minutes' drive past Mangamaunu. It isn't all sand, but at low tide it breaks on a sand bar, so it suits surfers who can't handle the rocks.
How crowded does the lineup get on a good swell, and when is it quietest?
Is this a good walk to do with kids?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the interpretation panels along the track make it a good choice for children, and the gravel surface is easy going underfoot.
Is it easy to find a park near the start in summer, or does it fill up?
Is the water safe to drink at Kumutoto Bay or do I need to bring my own?
The GrapevineCity guide
Boil, filter or treat any water before you drink it. On some tracks in the Sounds you need to carry your own water too.
Is there much shade around the campsite and jetty at Kumutoto Bay in the afternoon?
Is there anything to watch out for on the Putanui Point walk in autumn, like wasps?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, wasps. In late summer and autumn, carry antihistamine if you're allergic to wasp stings. Boil, filter or treat any water before drinking it.
How muddy or slippery does the Putanui Point track get after rain?
Can I drink the water at Ferndale campsite straight from the source?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, boil, filter or treat any water before you drink it. Bring a way to do that with you.
How muddy or slippery do the Ferndale tracks get after rain?
Can you drive to Whites Bay from Picton?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, it's a 41 km drive from Picton along Port Underwood Road. The road is historic and spectacular but winding and unsealed, so allow extra time.
How slippery or muddy does the Rarangi to Whites Bay track get after rain?
Can I do both Cullen Point walks in one stop?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, both tracks start from the same well-marked car park, 5.5 km down Queen Charlotte Drive from Havelock, so you can easily walk one or both.
Has anyone taken a pram on either track? Is the surface smooth enough?
What is the drive in along Kenepuru Road like for Mount Stokes?
The GrapevineCity guide
Kenepuru Road is narrow and winding. The track starts 41 km along it from the Linkwater turn-off on Queen Charlotte Drive, so take the bends steadily.
Is there space to park at the start on Kenepuru Road, and is it easy to pull off?
Are wasps a problem on the Mt Sunday/Mt Riley Track?
The GrapevineCity guide
Wasps are common on this track from December until April. If you are allergic to their stings, carry antihistamine.
Is the route easy to follow on the open tops, or is it easy to lose in cloud?
Do walkers and mountain bikers share the Mount Robertson loop?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, it's a shared use track, narrow and technical in places. Most mountain bikers ride the loop anti-clockwise, so walkers going the other way will meet bikes coming towards them.
How much room is there to park at the start on Port Underwood Road?
Can I go inside the east gun emplacement on Blumine Island?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. The east gun emplacement is closed until further notice, so don't enter the structure.
Could someone in a wheelchair manage the track once they're on the island?
Can I bring my dog to the Whites Bay campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, dogs are not allowed at the Whites Bay campsite. Leave them at home if you plan to camp there.
Can someone in a wheelchair get from the car park down to the beach at Whites Bay?
How is the track upstream from the Rai Falls car park, easy going or muddy after rain?
Is there drinking water at the Nydia Bay campsite, and is it safe to drink?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a tap at the campsite, but the water isn't treated, so boil, filter or treat it before drinking. The campsite also has a non-flush toilet.
Do you meet many walkers when riding it, and is it easy to pass them?
Is there drinking water on the Wakamarina Track, or do I need to carry it?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, Fosters Hut, Devils Creek Hut and the Butchers Flat campsite all have tap water. It is untreated, so boil it before drinking.
Has anyone ridden the Wakamarina on an e-bike? Wondering how the climbs and battery went.
Where can I check river levels and rainfall before fishing Spring Creek?
The GrapevineCity guide
Marlborough's Floodwatch and River Report pages show up to date river levels and rainfall around the region. Check them before you head out, especially after heavy rain.
How easy is it to get down to the water from the road crossings?
Do the Momorangi Bay cabins come with bedding?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, bring your own bedding and pillows. Each cabin has a double bed with a single bed above it, plus plugs, heating and lighting, but no appliances. Cabins cost $60 a night all year.
How hard is it to get a good foreshore site here in school holidays?
Can I camp along the Snout Track in Picton?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, camping is not permitted on the Snout Track. It works as a half-day walk of about 3 hours return from the car park, so there is no need to stay overnight.
How much shade is there on the Snout Track, or is it hot and exposed in the afternoon?
Can I get a wheelchair or mobility scooter along the track to Bob's Bay?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the Lower Bobs Bay Track isn't suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. It's undulating with some short, moderately steep sections, and it can get wet and muddy in winter.
Is it easy to find a park at Shelly Beach on a weekend?
What flies work best in the canals at Lake Argyle?
The GrapevineCity guide
Larger bushy dry flies suit the faster canal water. Royal Wulff, Humpy and Kakahi Queen are the ones to try.
Has anyone taken a dog fishing at Lake Argyle? Is it easy to keep them under control there?
Are dogs allowed at Momorangi Bay campground?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. Dogs are not allowed at the Momorangi Bay campground, and no other pets are allowed there either.
Is the jetty busy with campers in summer, and does it get any fish at dusk?
Are wasps a problem at Onamalutu campsite?
The GrapevineCity guide
They can be, especially in late summer and autumn, so keep an eye out for wasps if you're camping then.
How busy does Onamalutu get on summer weekends, and do you need to arrive early?
Is there a car park at the Garden Terrace end of the Tirohanga Track?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is a car park at the Garden Terrace end. It is also the start of the two Esson's Valley tracks, which head up the valley to Humphries Dam and Barnes Dam.
Do primary school aged kids manage the climb up to the lookout okay?
How busy does Whatamango Bay get in summer, and do you need to arrive early to get a good spot?
Can I walk one route out and come back a different way?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes. Both routes join the same two marinas, so you can go out on one and return on the other. The easy route goes via Endeavour Park and the other stays higher.
Is the surface sealed the whole way, or is it gravel in places? Planning to ride it on a road bike.
Is Barnes Dam still used for Picton's water supply?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes. Barnes Dam feeds the Essons Valley treatment plant, which supplies Picton along with the Speeds Road bores. The older dams are no longer used.
Does the Garden Terrace car park fill up on weekends or in summer?
Do walkers use the same tracks as the mountain bikers on Victoria Domain?
The GrapevineCity guide
On some of them, yes. The Kanuka Trail joins the walking track for the last 200 m or so before the peninsula, so watch out for walkers on that stretch.
Are there any toilets at the Snout Track car park or out on the trails?
Do I share the Mount Robertson tracks with walkers?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the Mount Robertson Loop is a shared use track, narrow and technical in places. On the Pukaka Valley extension, expect walkers coming uphill.
How steep are the climbs on the loop, and do you end up pushing the bike much?
What is the Motuweka Havelock Boardwalk on The Link Pathway?
The GrapevineCity guide
It's the final link into Havelock, finished in 2021. It has arched bridges and views across the Kaituna Estuary.
Is it manageable for primary school kids on their own bikes, or are some bits too rough?
Is there a car park near Picton Skate Park?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there is a small car park off Wairau Road, with toilets. From there a footbridge over Waitohi Stream takes you into the reserve where the skate park is.
Does the skate area get much shade in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Where do you board the launches in Picton?
The GrapevineCity guide
Launches board at the corner of London Quay and Wellington Street. It is also the access point to the foreshore, Shelly Beach and Victoria Domain.
How easy is it to find parking near the foreshore on a summer weekend?
Is there a bird viewing station near the jetty on Motuara Island?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a bird viewing station about five minutes from the jetty. The track carries on to a summit viewing platform at 128 m.
Is there much shade on the lookout track, or is it mostly in the sun?
Where do I park for the Momorangi Forest Experience Walk?
The GrapevineCity guide
Park in the public car park along the main road. The track starts at the end of the Momorangi Bay campground road, off Queen Charlotte Drive.
Is there much shade on the paved paths at Pollard Park on a hot afternoon?
Can I bike the Sutherland Stream track in the Wither Hills?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the Sutherland Stream track is walking only. Bikes are fine on the shared use Split Apple Peak and Mt Vernon tracks in the same farm park.
Which of these walks have worked well with kids around five or six?
Can I go into the east gun emplacement on Blumine Island?
The GrapevineCity guide
No. The east gun emplacement is closed until further notice, so don't enter it. The western emplacement is the one the track from the campsite leads to.
Is the track to the gun emplacements shady or pretty exposed on a sunny day?
Is the loop track at Kaipūpū steep anywhere?
The GrapevineCity guide
Only the first part of the track is moderately steep, and it is short. Take your time, stop for a breather, and enjoy the views over Tōtaranui (Queen Charlotte Sound).
Where do you leave the car in Picton when you catch the water taxi to Kaipupu?
Can a school or club group book a tour of the Picton museum?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the museum hosts group tours for schools, clubs and interest groups at a discounted rate. Contact the museum to arrange one.
Is it easy to get around inside with a pram or wheelchair?
Which stretch of the Taylor River is Riverside Park on?
The GrapevineCity guide
Riverside Park sits on the Taylor River between the Hutcheson Street bridge and the Boathouse Theatre.
Are there any picnic tables, or is it just rugs on the lawn?
Can I start a Whale Trail ride at the Picton Elevation?
The GrapevineCity guide
No, the Picton Elevation is marked do not use because of high traffic. Start and finish your ride at Tuamarino instead.
Has anyone done a guided ride on the Whale Trail from Blenheim? Is it worth it?
How old are the earthworks at Karaka Point?
The GrapevineCity guide
The earthworks possibly date from the early 1700s. You can still see the ramparts and the whare (house) pits at the old pā site.
Is the track okay for young kids, or are there steep drops near the path?
Is Whitehaven Theatre a good option on a wet day?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, it's all indoors. The 700-seat auditorium, a smaller black box theatre and a function room are all linked by one open foyer, so you can move between them under one roof.
How easy is it to get around Whitehaven Theatre in a wheelchair, including to the seats?
Where is Tuamarina Cemetery and who looks after it?
The GrapevineCity guide
Tuamarina Cemetery is on the hilltop off Cotterill Street in Tuamarina. Marlborough District Council looks after it.
Is there room to pull off and park at the tītoki tree rest area, and would a campervan fit?
Is there a museum as well as the plane at the Argosy?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a small museum beside the aircraft with artefacts from the airline's flying years.
Is it easy to park near the Argosy, or is it tricky pulling off the highway?
Is there anything for young kids to do inside the museum?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, there's a play area for children where they can dress up as a captain or a pirate.
Are there toilets at the museum, or do you need to use the public ones nearby?
Can the museum help me research my family history?
The GrapevineCity guide
Yes, the museum helps with family history research. You can also browse its portraits of early Renwicktown settlers online through a Marlborough Museum virtual exhibit.
Do the volunteers show you around on a Monday, or do you just wander through yourself?
How many people came to the first Marlborough Repertory Society meeting?
The GrapevineCity guide
72 people attended the foundation meeting on 10 August 1948, and another 24 sent apologies. That meeting started the Marlborough Repertory Society.
Are there toilets at the Boathouse, and are they easy to get to at interval?
Nothing here right now.