Picton Heritage Train Rides

This diesel-hauled train journey takes you up the challenging and steep elevation out of Picton (1-in-37 slope), through the Para Wetlands, across the Wairau River into the Wairau Valley and through a sea of vineyards into Blenheim. The line's climb from Picton to Elevation Saddle required a steep 1-in-37 (2.7%) grade and a viaduct across the Waitohi River. The original viaduct was the largest wooden structure in the southern hemisphere at the time of its completion and lasted until 1963, when it was replaced by the current concrete and steel structure.

On the left hand side of the railway between Picton and Blenheim, you’ll see skeletons of dead willows standing stark in a swamp area. The precious Para Wetland is currently the subject of a major restoration project by Fish and Game to remove the willows and restore native habitat. The swamp contains kahikatea and totara, and in pre-colonial times, supported large numbers of birds and fish as important Māori food sources.

The Wairau Valley is often referred to as the birth place of our nation. Te Pokohiwi-o-Kupe or the Wairau Bar, a gravel bar on Marlborough’s Cloudy Bay coastline where the Wairau River flows into the sea, is a place of historical significance. After crossing the river, we then follow SH1 down into Blenheim.

Central Blenheim is best explored by foot, with an abundance of great cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries, along with popular walkways along the Taylor River Reserve.