Marlborough, town in central New Zealand, on the northern part of South Island. Marlborough is located in the fertile valley of the Wairau River, one of New Zealand's premier grape-growing areas. The region produces wine known internationally for its quality. Tourism is also important to the economy. Visitors are attracted both to the picturesque Wairau Valley and to the opportunities for wine tasting. Population (1998) 39,700.
