I feel very VERY lucky to live in such a beautiful country so like a proud mama I like to show it off, especially some of my favourite spots like the 4 beautiful regions below. The great news is that lot's of us kiwi's have not explored so much of our own country (that's not the good news), and a honeymoon is a fantastic opportunity to go somewhere new and beautiful right here in New Zealand (THAT'S the good news!).
With cheap flights around the country and some of these spots easily within a day's driving time, there is something for everyone on all budgets (and since you are not paying a departure tax you can buy 2 extra glasses of wine! YUS). Here are 4 of my favourites that are perfect for a romantic getaway...
With gorgeous weather, beaches to die for, island escapes and so much history to take in, the Bay Of Islands is a great destination for your honeymoon. I was lucky enough to live up this way for a few months and spent a bit of time island hopping, including an overnight stay at the stunning Urupukapuka Island (in the pic above) and would compare the crystal clear waters to those in Fiji (just ever so slightly cooler).
My top 3 things to do
ONE Take the Fullers Great Sights 'Cream' Day Cruise, chocca with local history, an island lunch stopover and the opportunity to hang out in a net alongside the boat (in the water!) and possibly swim with dolphins (oh and you get up close to some awesome fancy pants houses which I loved!)
TWO Jump aboard of the many sailing boats that do day trips around the islands. My pick, the R. Tucker Thompson is awesome for a cruisy journey on an authentic old sailing boat (feels a little piratey!) with a lunchtime swim in a sheltered cove. Oh and I just found out you can get married on the boat too!
THREE This is a toss-up between going diving (hubby's choice) and a relaxing day visiting Russell then relaxing on a beach anywhere (my choice). If you are anything like us, you simply split up for the day then get back together for dinner!
Great places to stay
BUDGET Take advantage of the three awesome DOC campsites available on Urupukapuka Island (you will need to jump on the ferry to get there and back)
MID RANGE TO LUXE The Magic Cottages at Takou River offer lots of unique and crazy romantic accommodation options (you can also get married there!) including the most amazing cottages (of course!) and 'glamping' tents through to an entire luxury home.
A hugely popular holiday spot for Aucklanders, the Coromandel can get crazy busy over the holidays (which I love as it's such a fun atmosphere) but if you are looking for a relaxing, quiet and romantic holiday I would recommend avoiding these periods (especially Christmas and New Year!). It is popular for its amazing beaches, beautiful water and laid back vibe.
My top 3 things to do
ONE Hire a car, pack a picnic lunch (or see below) and explore the local towns and swim at all the beaches including the beautiful Cathedral Cove in the image above (you need to park at the top and walk down).
TWO With yummy craft beer and kick ass pizza's, the Pour House is a great spot to relax after your day visiting Cathedral Cove and simply relax in the sun!
THREE Take a boat cruise or hire a kayak and explore all the wee nooks and cranny's this beautiful area has to offer that you can only access by water.
Great places to stay
BUDGET The Hahei Holiday Resort offers everything from beachfront tent sites to fancy pants villa's, it's a gorgeous beach and a handy spot to explore surrounding attractions (including Hot Water Beach).
MID RANGE Oceans Resort Whitianga is a great base to explore the Coromandel Peninsula or for a romantic retreat near the Coromandel town, stay at Hush Boutique Accommodation.
LUXE The Absolute Hahei Oceanfront is a luxe holiday house right on the beach (seriously only steps away!)
While I have not explored the Tasman Region nearly as much as I would like to, the time I have spent there was so memorable that I still dream about it constantly! Beautiful golden sand, clear warm water, and lots of native bush, this region is so relaxing and romantic, and perfect for a honeymoon adventure!
My top 3 things to do
ONE The 60km Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a must do! An intermediate level walk (but you can take your time!) this walk includes stunning beaches, natural hot pools, an abundance of wildlife including a marine reserve, and you can stay at a variety of campsites and 4 huts along the way.
TWO Stay and relax on the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach, with campsites right across the road from the beach, daily boat trips available, a variety of walks and a great cafe, this is one magical spot where I could live forever!
THREE Head into Nelson for some great cafe's, breweries and design stores. If you are into fashion and/or vintage cars, check out the WOW museum of Wearable Arts & Classic Cars
Great places to stay
BUDGET The Kaiteriteri Motor Camp is amazingly affordable and right across the road from the beach. Make sure you book ahead as it can get really busy over holiday periods.
MID RANGE A little retreat up on the hill behind Kaiteriteri Beach, the Kimi Ora Eco Resort has an indoor pool for rainy days and you relax with some in-house treatments while you are there.
LUXE Rated one of the best Eco Lodges in the world, The Resurgence would be the ultimate honeymoon getaway (and they also hold weddings there!)
I lived in Queenstown for a few years and watched it change so much while I was there. Well, it has grown so much more since I left and in my eyes it just gets better and better as a holiday destination. Such a busy wee place filled with surprises, it is heaven for everyone who loves the outdoors, and even better for all of us who love to eat and drink. I think I might miss it... a lot.
My top 3 things to do
ONE Eat and drink yourself silly. With an amazing range of vineyards, restaurants and bar's you could literally spend your whole Honeymoon eating and drinking in the Queenstown area (my kind of honeymoon!) For something different head out to Arrowtown for an evening and check out The Blue Door Bar, Agave and luxe cinema Dorothy Browns (watch your movie with wine and a cheeseboard!) all up the same little alleyway!
TWO Hit the slopes (if it's winter of course!) with a great selection of ski fields catering for all levels. My favourite would be Cardrona, which is closer to Wanaka (another great place to stay and explore) with one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic pubs the Cardrona Hotel found at the bottom of the hill (a must stop for a cold beer and a great feed!)
THREE Get adventurous. From a gentle ride up the gondola and some luging to white water rafting and bungy jumping, there are SO many ways to get your heart pumping in Queenstown! And if you have ever thought about doing a skydive Queenstown is the place to do it with awesome company NZONE.
Great places to stay in Queenstown
BUDGET The Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park or the Queenstown Holiday Park & Motel Creeksyde are super handy to town and offer a range of accommodation from tent sites to cabins.
MID RANGE The Queenstown Motel Apartments are a great price, with awesome views and walking distance to town.
MID TO LUXE A 2 minute walk to town and super stylish, the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is a great pick.
LUXE For the ultimate in luxury and views to die for you cannot go past the Matakauri Lodge. It's AMAZING and if you are on your honeymoon (don't forget a copy of your marriage certificate!) you will get upgraded to the best available room.
Happy honeymooning beautiful people! xox
You might also enjoy:
The TOP 8 Islands in the South Pacific to Honeymoon (or even say "I do"!)
The Top 10 Honeymoon Stays in the South Pacific (for every budget!)
Founder and editor of P&L. Self-proclaimed shoe guru and lover of bogan chic (wtf!) Wife of a butcher, mother of 7 dogs and a cat. Bonkers.