New Zealand might be halfway around the world for many of us, but it’s consistently ranked as one of the best destinations for honeymoons and romantic getaways. Why should you plan a romantic getaway in New Zealand? It’s got incredible food and wine, great scenery, exciting and exclusive adventures, and some of the coolest five star estates. New Zealand is a small country with an outpouring of things to see and do, from big city adventures to remote outposts with luxurious experiences. From top to bottom, no matter your interests, there is something for both you and your partner. In this post, I explore what makes New Zealand a great honeymoon destination and why you should plan a romantic getaway here.
A romantic getaway in New Zealand
Looking at the adventures available in New Zealand, you’d assume that the only people who travel there are adrenaline-pumping thrill seekers who like to sleep in their van. While that’s a significant portion of the travel industry, it’s definitely not everyone. In fact, luxury and New Zealand go hand in hand. Imagine flying in a helicopter with your significant other over snow capped peaks, pristine golden beaches, or lush remote forests. Many of the companies even offer a glacier landing – talk about some epic honeymoon pictures!
New Zealand has five star lodges scattered across the country, from the far north to the far south. They are located in some of the country’s most incredible places and feature unique activities on property. It’s easy to create an itinerary that highlights various lodges. If you don’t feel like driving, a car service gets you from place to place. Helicopters also have access to landing spots at many of the lodges, ensuring an unforgettable arrival. This is definitely one way to get your romantic getaway in New Zealand off on the right foot!
Honeymoon in New Zealand
A honeymoon celebrates the beginning of a life together. What better place to celebrate than at one of the luxury lodges in the Far North or Central Otago? These secluded lodges – all with five star amenities and panoramic vistas – are the picture perfect honeymoon.
Many are country lodges with daily activities like shooting, horseback riding, four wheel driving, golfing, or archery. There’s excellent hiking near most of them as well. For those inclined toward the wellness trend, all of the lodges have award winning spas. And, of course I can’t forget the food and wine. New Zealand wines are among some of the best in world, so toast your honeymoon with a glass or two of local vino.
Insider tip: Plan at least one day of wine-tasting in New Zealand. There are wine regions across the entire country. Learn more about New Zealand wine regions here!
Plan a destination wedding in New Zealand
If you don’t think you can get away on a romantic getaway in New Zealand without the family getting green with envy, why not do a destination wedding here? It’s possible to buy out full properties for events such as weddings. Often, this will accommodate half a larger wedding or even the entire party. Should you have additional family in need of rooms there are usually options nearby.
A destination wedding in New Zealand means epic photos, time to explore, and a built-in honeymoon. Celebrate on the North Island, then head for the South to get away from the family (or vice versa). Rest assured that even in such a small country, you will feel a thousand miles away. I can assist with itineraries for the entire family, crafting individual ones to make sure everyone’s New Zealand wishes are taken into account.
Also, how incredible is the above photo?! I asked my good friend Anya, a Russian-American who married an Australian in New Zealand, if I could share a photo. I’m blown away by the background. And, as a Virtuoso travel advisor, I’ve got contacts who can help you arrange photo session like this. (For anything – engagements, weddings, honeymoons, babymoons, or family photos – or solo travel photos!)
Celebrate an anniversary or a babymoon in New Zealand
No matter if you’ve been married for two, ten, or thirty years, you and your spouse will find plenty to enjoy about New Zealand. Raise a glass to however many years together as you savour a private wine tasting atop Mount Michael, indulge in a couples spa treatment at one of the luxury lodges, or race each other down the luge in Queenstown. If that’s not enough adrenaline, you could do a tandem bungy jump or trek the Milford Track together.
Don’t feel left out of the fun if you’re expecting a baby! While it’s a long flight for a pregnant woman, if you go early enough you’ll definitely have time to relax by a private spa pool, sip freshly squeezed juice at a local cafe, or pick up a few handcrafted goodies for Baby.
There’s so much to enjoy about a romantic getaway in New Zealand, whether you and your significant other revel in adrenaline pumping activities or prefer the finer things in life.
How to get to New Zealand
Getting to NZ is easier than ever. There are daily flights from four North American gateways. Beginning in November 2018, Air New Zealand will fly nonstop from Chicago, making it five. Air New Zealand flies the new Boeing Dreamliner. The new aircraft has a lower cabin altitude, better humidity, and cleaner air, ensuring travellers arrive in Auckland feeling rested.
- Insider tip: Learn more about the country before you go! Check out my practical advice for travelling to New Zealand.
Want to use miles? All major US carriers and their codeshares fly to New Zealand. Ask me about my new partnership with Juicy Miles, who assists me in booking mileage travel for my clients.
A romantic getaway in New Zealand means exciting adventures, unparalleled scenery, once in a lifetime experiences, and exquisite food and wine. All of this, in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations!
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Paper, Ink, & Passports Travel is a full-service travel consulting and design company. We craft custom itineraries for destinations around the world. An Aussie Specialist, New Zealand Gold Specialist, Ireland Specialist, and Scotland Expert. Contact me now to start planning your romantic getaway in New Zealand!
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