Planning Your Visit

Transport to / from Blenheim:

Several airlines operate out of Blenheim, these are:

Sounds Air
https://www.soundsair.com/
Operating flights between Blenheim and Wellington and between Blenheim and Paraparaumu

(starting from $69 each way).

Origin Air
https://originair.co.nz/
Operating flights between Blenheim and Christchurch (starting from $239 each way) and

Blenheim to Wellington (starting from $69 each way).

Air New Zealand
https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/
Operating flights between Blenheim and Auckland and Blenheim and Wellington.

Airport Shuttle Service
Omaka Observatory will be operating a shuttle service between the airport and the Scenic Circle (and other accommodation in the center of town).
You can book this for $8 per person each way (shuttle running to meet flights on Thursday and Friday from the airport and returning back Sunday afternoon and Monday.
Note – you pay by EFTPOS or credit on the day on the bus.
https://omakaobservatory.rezdy.com/catalog/641320/rasnz-conference

Other Transport
Blenheim airport also has taxis:

Marlborough Taxis 03 577 5511

and Blenheim Cabs 03 777 1072

and the usual car hire companies (Avis, Hertz, Budget, Ezi Rentals).

Accommodation Options:

Scenic Hotel (which is hosting the conference) has a special rate for RASNZ members.
Promo code is RASNZ26

Rate: $218 Bed and Breakfast for single occupancy, $246 Bed and Breakfast for dual occupancy.
Room type: Superior.

Stay Dates: 15-17 May 2026.
Expiry Date: 2nd May 2026 (2 weeks before arrival).
Cancellation policy: 14 days.

You can book by calling the hotel on 03-5206187 or emailing them at

marlborough@scenichotels.co.nz

Or you can book online using the link below (note the booking is for 2 guests by default but you can easily change it to one 1 on the booking engine).
https://reservations.scenichotelgroup.co.nz/scenic-hotel-marlborough/book/accommodations?adults=1&children=0&datein=05/15/2026&dateout=05/17/2026&domain=www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz&hotelid=107138&identifier=RASNZ26

Other options:

Carnmore Chateau Marlborough (opposite the Scenic Hotel) – a higher end option.
Bella Vista, Lugano Motor Lodge, 171 On high, and Blenheim Palms Motels – all good cheaper motel options within a couple of minutes’ walk of the Scenic Hotel.
For a budget friendly stay, check out Bings Motel.

More things to do:

Blenheim is the perfect place to discover world class wine, aviation history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant local arts.

Marlborough Wine Trails
Whether you prefer a guided tour, cycling between vineyards, or a self-driven adventure, no trip to Blenheim is complete without experiencing its famous wine region. Pick up a wine trail map and discover some of Marlborough’s renowned cellar doors. See also Wine Trail.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Rare aircraft and immersive exhibitions that bring aviation history to life.

Outdoor Adventures
Taylor River Reserve – A scenic walkway and cycle path that winds through town, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Wither Hills Farm Park – Panoramic views over Blenheim and the Wairau Valley.
Wairau Bar Shipwreck Walk – Featuring the remains of a historic shipwreck.

Day Trips to Picton & The Sounds
Picton is the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Consider booking with Marlborough Tour Company, who offer guided day trips showcasing the best of Picton and The Sounds.

Vines Village
Sample local produce, enjoy artisan treats, browse handcrafted goods, and meet local makers all in one charming location.

Local Art
Art lovers should not miss Te Kahu o Waipuna – Marlborough Art Gallery. Showcasing contemporary and traditional works by regional and national artists, as well as many other galleries.