New Zealand, known for its adventure tourism, is an ideal honeymoon destination. Enjoy unforgettable natural encounters like bird-watching on Stewart Island with the kiwi birds or viewing stunning marine wildlife at Tawharanui Marine Reserve.
Or for wine enthusiasts, Marlborough Vineyards provide an idyllic cycling tour and antique-shopping opportunity. Cycle through these lush vineyards with your companion or visit one of the surrounding towns for even more exploration!
1. Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo offers an unforgettable experience, boasting stunning beaches, secret coves, and native wildlife that makes for an incredible atmosphere. Lake Taupo also serves as an ideal outdoor enthusiasts’ haven, with hiking, biking, fishing and relaxing in hot thermal springs all being options here.
Rotorua offers thrill-seekers plenty of excitement. View geysers shooting into the air and bubbling mud pools or jet boat to Huka Falls via jet boating. According to Maori legend, Lake Taupo basin was formed when Ngatoirangi threw his totara into an ancient volcanic crater so as to plant forest seeds that eventually created Lake Taupo basin.
2. Huka Falls
With hot springs, geysers, and stunning walking tracks aplenty, this natural wonderland provides an exciting romantic adventure. Soak in its hot springs while exploring its rainforest. Plus discover Maori culture!
Just take a stroll along Coromandel’s picturesque beaches, stroll over to Cathedral Cove or kayak across its serene blue waters – and don’t forget visiting one of Coromandel’s acclaimed wineries and sampling some world-class local wines!
New Zealand offers gorgeous sandy beaches and hidden coves perfect for romantic honeymoon trips, while its laid back lifestyle makes this destination alluring for honeymooners. However, due to the colder temperatures during wintertime it should be avoided as much as possible.
3. Waitomo Caves
Waitomo Caves are an essential stop on any New Zealand honeymoon itinerary, renowned for their glow-worms and Cathedral Cave. Spend a night floating through this dark cave while admiring how these vibrant glowing organisms light up their dim surroundings.
Blackwater rafting and exploring Cathedral Cave can also be enjoyed here, along with trekking the impressive sand dunes at Waitomo that are truly impressive – making this place an essential stop on any honeymoon in New Zealand.
4. Queenstown
Queenstown combines lush forests, pristine beaches and welcoming hospitality into one romantic New Zealand destination. Couples can hike out to Cathedral Cove and dig their own hot pool on Hot Water Beach; take a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu; visit local vineyards; or simply stroll along its streets and streets in search of romance!
This bustling lake town also provides peaceful farm stays and tours of Lord of the Rings filming locations such as Glenorchy, Arrowtown and beyond. If you’re up for an adventure, Kawarau Bridge offers the chance to bungee jump!
5. Coromandel
The Coromandel is an idyllic honeymoon spot for beach enthusiasts in New Zealand, boasting some of the world’s finest pristine beaches such as Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach that have become beloved movie locations.
Experience some of the local culture by visiting a boutique winery or, for those feeling adventurous enough, try bungee jumping!
Lake Taupo offers stunning beauty to explore this summer, when its lovely kauri trees blooming into bloom and swim, kayak, and hike around its waters. Don’t miss this incredible spot if you love water activities – swimming, kayaking and hiking around it await.
6. Hobbiton
Hobbiton, home to Elijah Wood, Orlando Bloom and Vigo Mortensen from Lord of the Rings/Hobbit is an absolute must. Visit Hobbiton as part of your New Zealand visit for an unforgettable movie-set experience and a chance to stand where Elijah Wood, Orlando Bloom and Vigo Mortensen once stood!
Hobbiton, located in Waikato region, is just an hour’s drive from Auckland and while you cannot stay onsite, Woodlyn Park Motel near Matamata features a special “Hobbit Hole Room,” making your visit easy!
7. Wellington
New Zealand’s capital city offers plenty of romance. Explore it on foot, by bike, or aboard an idyllic harbour cruise.
Stay at Tarata Eco Retreat in a stunning harbourside cabin featuring glass architecture to bring nature close. Or head underground at Waitomo Caves where thousands of glow worms reside naturally in their environment.
Get an aerial view of the city from Redwoods Treewalk or Skyline Gondola rides. Or visit Otari-Wilton’s Bush botanical gardens to gain more knowledge on native plants and trees.
8. Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island offers nature lovers an idyllic off-grid experience, featuring miles of beaches. Reached easily via plane or boat ride from Auckland, Great Barrier Island can provide hours of outdoor adventures and experiences.
Auckland offers newlyweds on their romantic New Zealand honeymoon plenty of activities and attractions, from visiting its bustling street markets, dining at scenic restaurants, and even taking an exciting bungee jump from its famous Kawarau Bridge!
Wanaka is an idyllic lake town. You can take hiking tours, vineyard tours or cruise around scenic Lake Wakatipu for an enjoyable visit.
9. The Coromandel
The Coromandel Peninsula provides tranquil beaches, vibrant Maori culture and stunning vistas. Hall recommends taking a day trip to experience Waitomo Caves glowworm experience or visiting New Chum Beach before taking a stroll across Mangapohue Natural Bridge among towering limestone arches for unforgettable sights and experiences.
Outdoor-loving couples will relish in Hahei to Cathedral Cove walk, scuba diving and kayaking activities; or hike Mount Paku to witness breathtaking sunset views! Movie buffs should stop by Hobbiton where The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films were shot!
10. Waitomo Caves
New Zealand is an unforgettable experience that offers both thrills and relaxation. Adventurous visitors can take part in exhilarating heli-skiing or heli-fishing adventures; those seeking relaxation can visit hot springs, glaciers, beaches or forests.
The Coromandel Peninsula boasts beautiful beaches and boutique wineries like Mercury Bay Estate. Couples can relax over a glass of Sauvignon Blanc while taking in stunning ocean and beach views! This makes an excellent alternative to exploring glow worm caves!