For the outdoorsy and active couple looking for a romantic getaway with a side of adventure, New Zealand may be the dream destination to beat.
As the crowded city life and driving in hour-long traffic just to get to a dinner date becomes tiresome, you may find this island country’s uncrowded glory, beautifully set against the backdrop of unspoiled natural wonders from north to south, as your next romantic destination.
Think luxe accommodations nestled between trees and coastlines, paired with helicopter rides over majestic mountains, and stargazing upon the clearest skies (you two might get lucky and even catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights).
Gourmet getaway in Kaikoura or Marlborough
Take your tastebuds on a trip in two South Island regions. The Gourmet Getaway tour begins in Kaikoura, known for its bountiful seafood, venison, and fresh organic produce, and ends in Marlborough, the Sauvignon Blanc capital of New Zealand and purveyor of organic and biodynamic wines.
Stargazing in Tekapo
Bask in the swoon-worthy ambience of Lake Tekapo’s Church of the Good Shepherd, surrounded by colorful lupins that grow on the shores of the turquoise-hued lake—the perfect setting for a wedding.
As night falls, watch as the southern stars reflect in the eyes of your partner in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve—the minimal light pollution makes it a perfect place to make a wish upon a shooting star.
Picnic on a peak in Queenstown
Hailed by Lonely Planet in 2014 as one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world, Queenstown takes adventure and luxury to new heights. Helicopter tours can take visitors on a scenic ride to a secluded location in the mountains that rise above the playful town. Couples can enjoy a private, gourmet picnic surrounded by unrivaled panoramic views.
After a day of thrilling adventures, it’s time to relax, unwind and indulge. The award-winning Matakauri Lodge offers luxury accommodation with a private viewpoint to the lake and breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak.
Fly high in Auckland
Leave the city behind as you take flight high into the sky and above the volcanic crater of Rangitoto aboard Auckland Seaplanes. Enjoy a romantic picnic on a secluded beach, an afternoon of feast and fancy at Waiheke’s delectable Oyster Inn, or a few hours watching the clear blue waters crash onto white sandy shores with an overnight stay on the unspoiled Great Barrier Island.
Thrilling adventure in Tongariro
Be one with nature and your partner as you embark on the best one-day hike in the world along the Tongariro Crossing. The hike takes you through lunar-like volcanic landscapes, past deep blue and green lakes, and rugged slopes filled with wild alpine flora and fauna. For extra romance, Adrift NZ Outdoor Adventures has sunrise and sunset guided tours.
Wedding fit for a hobbit in Waikato
Couples ready to take their relationship to the next level can enjoy a romantic stroll amongst the blooms, birds, and hobbit holes at the Hobbiton movie set, made famous in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Out of Hobbiton and into the whimsical Underhill Valley, the glamping site situated on a farm, is a secluded spot built on a hillside which offers couples the chance to be alone together.
Visit newzealand.com/int for more information on these destinations.