From Swamp to Settlement
Marshlands lies on the Wairau floodplain, about 11 km north-east of Blenheim and just south of the diversion channel of the Wairau River. The name reflects the swampy land that once covered the area, thick with harakeke (flax). Today, the flats are drained and farmed, but the landscape still carries echoes of its wetland past.
The Chaytor Flax Mill Ruins
In the late 19th century, flax milling became a key industry in Marlborough. Marshlands was home to the Chaytor flax mill, built around 1888, which processed fibre from the surrounding wetlands. The mill operated until 1964, making it the last to close in the region. Various dilapidated buildings and remnants remain on the site, now mainly on the edge of private farmland. A heritage panel explains the history and significance of the mill.
Harakeke and Industry
For centuries, Māori used harakeke for weaving ropes, mats, baskets, and clothing. When Europeans arrived, the demand for flax fibre grew, and mills like Chaytor’s became central to the early export economy. At its peak in the early 20th century, Marlborough had more than 10 mills in operation, but as demand waned with the advent of plastic fibres, the industry declined. Marshlands’ mill was one of the last to close.
Getting There
From Blenheim, drive northeast along State Highway 1, then turn onto Ferry Road at Spring Creek, which becomes Bothams Bend Road. Turn right onto Chaytor Road and follow this until you see the ruins on the right. The heritage sign is beyond the first ruin. Parking is on the roadside margins near the heritage marker.
From there, you can continue east to Rārangi Beach for coastal walks and views over Te Koko-o-Kupe / Cloudy Bay, or head south to the Wairau Lagoons. For a very different take on local history, you can also visit the site of the Wairau Affray at Tuamarina.
