Marlborough Memories

OVERVIEW

Savor the full appeal of the Marlborough region with visits to a historic aviation museum, an artisanal craft brewery and a chocolate factory. About 30 scenic minutes’ coach drive from Picton, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre showcases one of the world’s largest private collections of WWI aircraft and vintage aviation memorabilia. See everything from Chinese Nanchang trainers to the rare, bird-like Etrich Taube, a Curtis MF Flying Boat, an agile Fokker like the Red Baron flew, and the only Caproni Ca 22 parasol monoplane in existence. This unrivaled collection that also includes historic artifacts and personal belongings from flying heroes. Not far away is Moa Brewery, where you can enjoy a flight of a different sort: of beers and ciders. Produced using zesty New Zealand hops, other local ingredients, and labor-intensive traditional brew techniques, their range is a delicious labor of love. So are the sweet temptations waiting for you at Makana Confections, one of the country’s foremost producers of hand-crafted truffles, macadamia bark, Marlborough wine gelées and even some sugar-free treats. You’ll love every bite of this visit.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel by coach into the Marlborough region, where historic and gourmet landmarks are on the agenda.
• Tour a fascinating, world-class collection of WWI-era aircraft at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
• See extremely rare planes and memorabilia, the personal collection of film director Sir Peter Jackson.
• Visit Moa Brewery, crafting award-winning beers from premium NZ hops and heritage methods.
• Stop in at Makana Confections, home of dangerously tempting handmade chocolates and other sweet treats.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.