Blenheim, New Zealand
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Blenheim Waiharakeke (Māori) |
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| Main urban area | |
Blenheim pictured from the International Space Station
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 Blenheim
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| Coordinates: 41°30′50″S 173°57′36″E / 41.514°S 173.960°ECoordinates: 41°30′50″S 173°57′36″E / 41.514°S 173.960°E | |
| Country |
 New Zealand
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| Region | Marlborough |
| Territorial authority | Marlborough District |
| Named for | Battle of Blenheim |
| Member of Parliament | Stuart Smith, Kaikoura Electorate |
| Suburbs |
List
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| Government | |
| • Mayor | John Leggett |
| Area | |
| • Total | 103.89 km2 (40.11 sq mi) |
| Population (June 2016) | |
| • Total | 30,700 |
| • Density | 300/km2 (770/sq mi) |
| Postcode | 7201 |
| Area code(s) | 03 |
Blenheim (/ˈblɛnɪm/; Māori: Waiharakeke) is the most populous town in the region of Marlborough, in the north east of the South Island of New Zealand. It has an urban population of 30,700 (June 2016). The surrounding area is well known as a centre of New Zealand's wine industry. It enjoys one of New Zealand's sunniest climates, with hot, relatively dry summers and crisp winters.
The Marlborough Region in which Blenheim is situated has a wide range of leisure activities, from swimming with dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds to watching whales in Kaikoura; from walks through the bush and along the rugged coastline, and scenic boat cruising, fishing, water-skiing and kayaking. The relaxed lifestyle and the flourishing wine and gourmet food industry in Marlborough are enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
Blenheim is named after the Battle of Blenheim (1704), where troops led by John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough defeated a combined French and Bavarian force.
The sheltered coastal bays of Marlborough supported a small Māori population possibly as early as the 12th century. Māori in the Marlborough Region cultivated crops, including kumara (sweet potato) and exploited marine resources.
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