Depart Picton Railway Station and admire breathtaking views as your train climbs the challenging 1 in 37 slope, the fourth steepest slope in New Zealand. The journey takes you on a more sedate nature and the train engages in a graceful gallop meandering alongside the Para Wetlands, home to an abundance of birds, game fish and unique wetland vegetation. A sea of vineyards on both sides, greets the train on the stretch to Blenheim town – clear evidence that Marlborough is indeed home to 80% of New Zealand's wine production, most famously the sauvignon blanc variety. South of Blenheim, The Marlborough Flyer then traverses the rolling southern hills of Marlborough, snaking through the Dashwood Pass, bursting into the beautiful Awatere Valley, and the magnificent sea of vineyards with the snow-capped peak of the majestic sentinel, Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku in the background. The final stretch crosses the Awatere River on the historic Awatere Road Rail Bridge built in the same era as the train. The Marlborough Flyer has the advantage of balconies at both ends of each carriage which enables passengers a convenient viewing position. Enjoy some time to stretch the legs in Seddon with a photo opportunity and convenience break.