Honeymoon in New Zealand: Our Most Romantic Getaways

Choosing the perfect honeymoon destination can be tough. Honeymoons should be equally as special as the big day itself, so it’s perfectly acceptable to agonise over the decision for months or even years at a time! Some might have the funds and the time to sail off on a bougie round-the-world trip, while others prefer to stay local, keep things more laidback and focus on quality time.

If a honeymoon in New Zealand is something you’re considering, we’re here to tell you that you simply cannot go wrong. Armed with the right company, a rough plan and inside knowledge on the country’s most intimate destinations, there’s plenty of romance to be found in the ‘land of the long white cloud’.

Image by Alistair Guthrie

A romantic honeymoon in the Bay of Islands

For many New Zealanders, the Bay of Islands has a slightly mysterious energy. We all know it’s one of New Zealand’s best holiday destinations, but its position at the top of the North Island almost makes it feel slightly out of reach to anyone living south of Taupo. So what better reason to finally take the plunge and visit the beautiful Bay of Islands than to celebrate your honeymoon?!

The Bay of Islands has so much to offer for your New Zealand honeymoon. It’s home to some of New Zealand’s best luxury accommodation and strikes the perfect balance of being peaceful and relaxed while also offering countless things to see and do. And it’d be remiss of us not to mention the weather and the scenery. Known as the ‘winterless north’, even the cooler months are mild here in comparison to other parts of New Zealand. Not only are there jaw-dropping ocean views at almost every turn, but you’ll find picturesque waterfalls, countryside and native bush too

So where to start when planning your honeymoon in the Bay of Islands? Experience sailing at it’s best by joining Barefoot Sailing Adventures on an island day cruise where you’ll cruise amongst the beautiful marine playground aboard Kopiko, the 33ft performance catamaran. For seriously spectacular accommodation, take a look at Eagles Nest or The Landing. These luxury coastal lodgings offer breathtaking views and world-class service – with personal chefs, spa therapists and other services on call to make your honeymoon intimate and unforgettable.

Image by Graeme Murray

Stay beneath the mountains in Queenstown

Queenstown is New Zealand’s top holiday destination for good reason; there is plenty to do here all year round! Set on the peaceful shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown has activities for adventurous couples and romantic accommodation options for those who prefer to hunker down and enjoy wedded bliss.

Couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to honeymoon accommodation in Queenstown. If you’re ready to splurge, Matakauri Lodge will not disappoint. Said to be a favourite among celebrities, this luxury lodge boasts some of the best views in Queenstown, stretching across the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and, of course, Lake Wakatipu. Relax in the infinity pool and spa or sit and enjoy the tranquility of the undisturbed views from the courtyard. An equally luxurious choice is Blanket Bay, which offers chalets, a villa or an owners cottage. Located about 45 minutes from Queenstown, this lakeside lodge is consistently being voted among the world’s best.

If you have your accommodation sorted, the next step is to begin thinking about what activities you’d like to try! Our top picks for honeymooning couples? A scenic flight over Milford Sound with Glenorchy Air, a winery tour and a private tub at Onsen Hot Pools – just be sure to book well in advance!

Make your way to Marlborough

The Marlborough region isn’t quite as well-known as Queenstown, but it’s a great New Zealand honeymoon destination for those who love wine, seafood and wild, unspoilt landscapes.

The Marlborough Sounds is simply a must-do in the summer, made up of a system of serene islands, valleys and drowned inlets perfect for exploring via boat or kayak. Go on a luxury overnight yacht charter with Sounds By Sail or check out Compass Charters for a week-long yachting experience. If you prefer to stay on dry land, there are some perfect honeymoon lodges sprinkled throughout the Marlborough Sounds that will give you all the peace and privacy you desire.

And when you’ve seen the Sounds, travel further south to the sleepy towns of Blenheim, Kaikoura and the small villages in between. Take a tour with Kaikoura Kayaks to see some of the region’s abundant marine life or indulge a full-day wine tour to sample some of New Zealand’s signature Sauvignon Blancs.

Image by Matt Crawford

Coromandel Peninsula

If you’re planning a summer honeymoon in New Zealand, a stay in the Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect way to begin your new chapter as a married couple. There are so many beautiful beaches in the region that you could spend weeks here skipping from town to town without getting bored.

Earth Energies Sanctuary in Thames on the western side of the Peninsula is the perfect New Zealand honeymoon accommodation. With secluded cabins, immaculately-prepared meals and a selection of relaxation therapies available, this is the perfect place to unwind and spend quality time with your other half, letting go of all the stresses of planning your big day. On the eastern side of the peninsula, check out Puka Park Resort at Pauanui or Orokawa Bay Retreat—a secluded haven situated just north of Waihi.

While you’re in the Coromandel, check out some of the region’s most ‘instagrammable’ locations. Cathedral Cove is always a crowd pleaser, and a great way to see it is via catamaran with Ocean Leopard Tours. The Lost Spring in Whitianga is another must-do. This gorgeous geothermal hot pool complex has a great restaurant, a day spa and more. What could be better than sitting in a hot pool with your loved one, sipping on a cocktail before having a relaxing couples massage?!

Image by Fraser Clements

Nelson-Tasman

The Nelson-Tasman region has a history of seeing more sun than anywhere else in the country. So if you’re searching for a New Zealand honeymoon destination where you can soak up a few rays, Nelson-Tasman is a fairly safe bet!

Another great destination for lovers of the great outdoors, Nelson-Tasman offers honeymoon activities galore. Hike the Coastal Track through the Abel Tasman National Park at your own pace and stay in some beautiful accommodation throughout your journey. Or simply set up for a few days at one of the region’s popular glamping spots, from a romantic hut on peaceful Pepin Island to an off-grid yurt in Motueka Valley.

Nelson-Tasman has some of the best beaches in the country, with clear blue waters and golden sands. Our idea of the perfect romantic day? Why not join Kahu Kayaks on a half-day guided scenic kayak tour? Another option is to have a picnic and a dip at Tahunanui, Rabbit Island or Kaiteriteri—or a flight over the coastline in a chopper with Helicopters Nelson. Then top off the evening with a fine dining experience at Hopgoods Restaurant, where Michelin-trained chefs will serve you a meal you’ll never forget.