Excursion Blenheim highlights tour at Picton

This pretty drive with your driver-guide into the Blenheim's wine district takes you to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, one of the finest collections of World War I aircraft in the world. Stunningly staged and mounted, the Knights of the Sky exhibition takes you back to another era. You will also visit a leading privately-owned craft brewery and taste delicious chocolate, during this half-day excursion.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

From Picton, travel down to Blenheim to Omaka Airfield, Blenheim's original airfield built after WWI. Omaka is home to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, hosting rare memorabilia owned by leading Hollywood film director Peter Jackson. The facility presents lifelike displays comprised of a spectacular collection of static and airworthy aircraft. As you enter the Aviation Heritage Centre, step back into an era when aviation was a gentleman's sport; when the Knights of the Sky jousted above the clouds on horses made of cloth and wire. Learn about some of the famous aviation aces and their amazing machines and marvel at the early aircraft in which heroes of yesteryear braved the skies. See such rare planes as the Caproni CA 22 (the last one remaining in the world), the Fokker DR.1 tri-plane and the De Havilland D.H.4. Part of the memorabilia collection includes items from Germany's fighter ace Manfred von Richthofen (the Red Baron).

Boom Town Brewery

Boom Town Brewing Co is an independent, New Zealand owned brewery run by a small and talented team in the heart of Marlborough. Boom Town named after its home town Blenheim's nickname 'Boom Town' was established in 2018 with a mission of producing craft beer by locals for locals.

Their brewing is underpinned by a sense of place, of local craftsmanship, fun and discovery. They use only the finest ingredients and purest New Zealand water to create some of the smoothest, easy drinking craft beers in the world.

Makana Chocolates

Your last visit before returning to Picton is to Makana Chocolates where you can view chocolates being hand-made. Be sure to sample the finished product - a local favourite is their macadamia-coated chocolate.

Afterwards, re-board the coach and return to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Picton, Blenheim Wine Distict, Omaka Airfield and Aviation Heritage Centre, World War I Aircraft Collection, Boom Town Brewery and Makana Chocolates

Note

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 800 yards (750 metres) over flat, paved surfaces. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair; however guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach and also manage a few steps at the brewery. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. Due to the limited number of vehicles suitable for touring in this area, space is limited and all seats may be occupied.