Marlborough’s labour market largely revolves around its vineyards and aquaculture sectors. Flat plains and a dry climate make it an ideal home for the grapes that have made the area famous.  The Marlborough Sounds are home to mussel and salmon farms, producing seafood for local and international markets.

Travelling down the Pacific Ocean coastline from Picton you will find Kaikoura – a tourism hot spot in both summer and winter. Work in tourism, hospitality and retail supports the thriving visitor industry and primary industries include agriculture, dairy, forestry and fishing.