In the heart of Marlborough's wine growing area lies Old Saint Mary's Convent - a haven for the discerning traveller, where luxury accommodation and an intimate retreat may be found.

Old Saint Mary's Convent is situated on an estate of 20 acres and surrounded on all sides by the vineyards and olive groves Marlborough is famous for. Spring Creek, with its abundant bird life and trout, meanders lazily through the property. It is here, beneath Marlborough's azure sky, that one may spend a pleasant afternoon sipping local vintages and sampling the provincial gourmet fare.

A Proud History:

Designed by Thomas Turnbull and built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy, the Convent was originally located next to Saint Mary's Church in Blenheim. It provided nineteen bedrooms for the nuns, a library, music room, sewing room, office and a beautiful chapel upstairs on the first floor.

Native timbers were extensively used in the construction including Matai, Rimu and Kauri. One of the many splendid examples of Victorian craftsmanship is the subtantial carved staircase, constructed entirely from Kauri.

In 1994, the Convent was moved in five pieces to its present location in Rapaura. The task of restoration then began under the guidance of architect Sir Michael Fowler. The interior layout downstairs has remained exactly as it was nearly 100 years ago, retaining its original charm and character.

Accommodation:

The Chapel Honeymoon/Executive Suite is the size of a small apartment. It epitomizes luxury with casual elegance. The large ensuite bathroom features a two-person claw bath, walk-in shower, double basins and superior toiletries.

Each of the seven rooms has spectacular views of the surrounding hills, vineyards and/or gardens. All have their own ensuite with bath and separate shower. The rooms are very spacious and airy with easy access to the balcony.

Essential modern conveniences, like fire protection sprinklers and a sophisticated heating and air conditioning system, are cleverly hidden behind the old ceilings, rimu panelling and timbered floors.

Continental or cooked breakfast is served in the large formal dining room. The library, with its ornate Kauri fireplace and separate guest lounge, is for the exclusive use of guests.

Splendid grass tennis courts neighbouring the Convent can usually be used by guests.

Chapel Honeymoon Suite:

Executive suite, the size of a small apartment, situated in the old Chapel with antique beautifully crafted old stained glass windows and its own private balcony. Super-king bed, ensuite bathroom with luxurious two person bath and separate shower. Writing desk with Internet connection, TV and stereo. Mini-bar with complimentary bottle of Cloudy Bay Pelorus sparkling wine.

Mother Superior's Room:

Spacious room with access to balcony. Queen bed and large ensuite bathroom with luxurious two-person bath and walk-in shower. Comfortable sitting area and beautiful views of the garden and Richmond Ranges.

Sister Ancilla - Twin Room:

Sunny spacious room with Super-king/twin-size bed. Large ensuite bathroom with old-fashioned bath and separate shower. Morning sun wakes you up to beautiful views of the gardens and Richmond Ranges.

Novice's Room:

Extra large room with wonderful views over vineyards. Queen bed and comfortable sitting area. Ensuite bathroom with claw bath and walk-in shower.

Grace Room:

Large room with Queen bed and comfortable sitting area. Ensuite bathroom with claw bath and walk-in shower. Views of the garden.

The Parlours:

Two separate ground-floor suites, one with ensuite bathroom and Queen bed, and one with ensuite bathroom and Single bed. Suitable for wheelchair access. Beautiful views of the gardens and Richmond Ranges. Very sunny, with direct access to the verandas and the garden.

St. Michael's Church:

St. Michael's is a charming little wooden church situated in the garden. It has unique stained glass windows and may be used for a moment of quiet contemplation or for small weddings.

Discover Marlborough:

Marlborough holds international acclaim for being one of the finest wine regions in the world. The Convent is ideally situated among the vineyards for a tour of the nearby wineries.

Those attracted to the water may visit the Marlborough Sounds for water sports or fishing. Your hosts can arrange a trip on the mail boat or a fishing guide to take guests to the perfect spot for trout fishing in one of the local fresh water streams.

Other activities include horse trekking, scenic walks and white water rafting. Several excellent golf courses may be found in close proximity to the Convent.

In winter, Rainbow ski field offers excellent skiing with terrain suited for all abilities. Transport from the Convent can be arranged which takes approximately 90 minutes along the scenic Wairau Valley.

Blenheim has many superb restaurants providing a wide variety of cuisine, while lunches and evening meals are also served at a number of the local wineries.

Location:

Old Saint Mary's Convent is located just a 10 minute drive from Blenheim or 20 - 25 minutes from Picton on Rapaura Road. Look for our signage on Rapaura Road.