If you’re seeking the honeymoon of a lifetime, look no further than New Zealand. With breathtaking scenery, romantic experiences and endless opportunities to explore, you’ll never stop talking about the adventures you had in this incredible country. Thanks to our guest author Traveler’s Joy, here’s what you need to know to plan an epic honeymoon in New Zealand.
In This Story
- Why choose New Zealand for your honeymoon
- The best time to visit New Zealand for your honeymoon
- Unique honeymoon experiences in New Zealand
Why Choose New Zealand For Your Honeymoon
Made up of two large islands, New Zealand is a spectacular honeymoon destination that’s truly one-of-a-kind. With some of the world’s most awe-inspiring views and unique experiences on offer, it won’t disappoint.
Travel to the North Island for coastal hideaways, geothermal activity and Maori culture. Head to the South Island to experience natural wonders, wildlife and adventure sports at their best.
Whether you want to spend your days on the beach, exploring lakes and mountains, visiting thermal springs or sipping a glass of wine overlooking the vines, New Zealand has some special moments waiting for you. Whatever your preference, there’s something new to discover every single day.
The Best Time to Visit New Zealand For Your Honeymoon
New Zealand is a year-round destination, you just need to choose the season that best fits your interests!
Spring: September, October & November
Spring is the season for picture perfect moments with fields of blossoming flowers, newborn lambs, snow-capped mountains and streaming waterfalls to admire as you explore the great outdoors.
Summer: December, January & February
If lazy days at coastal hideaways or heart-pumping thrills are more your speed, the warmer months are your best bet! Summer is the busiest time of year for this popular destination, so book your stays and activities well in advance to make sure you hit all the highlights.
Fall: March, April & May
With striking autumnal colors on display, fall is a beautiful season to visit. There’s also less tourist traffic so local attractions will be quieter. Destinations like the historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown on the South Island come alive at this time of year.
Winter: June, July & August
If you’re looking to hit the slopes and cozy up by an open fire, New Zealand’s ski season runs from June to October. Quaint towns are made all the more charming with a dusting of snow!
Unique Honeymoon Experiences in New Zealand
Here are five memorable honeymoon experiences you’ll find in the land of the long white cloud.
For Movie Buffs: Explore the World of The Lord of the Rings
Journey to Middle-earth to see the makings of one of the most iconic fantasy trilogies of our time at Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata on the North Island. Go behind-the-scenes with a tour of the Shire before enjoying a pint of exclusive ale at The Green Dragon Inn.
Your next cinematic stop is Glenorchy on the South Island. Plan a day trip to experience the idyllic film locations for the Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains, and Isengard first hand. Whether or not you’re a diehard fan of Tolkien’s tales, you’ll marvel at the spectacular natural backdrops seen on the silver screen – no filter needed!
For Spa Lovers: Soak in Hot Mineral Pools
Stirring volcanic activity on the North Island creates a unique opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of mud and sulphur.
Polynesian Spa in Rotorua is internationally renowned for its hot mineral spring bathing and spa treatments with picturesque lake views. A couple of hours at this relaxing retreat and you’ll be hitting levels of zen you didn’t know were possible!
Only half an hour drive from Rotorua is the otherworldly Hell’s Gate. Explore boiling pools and clouds of steam on a guided tour while learning about the Maori myths, legends and culture connected to this lunar landscape. See where nutrient-rich mud is collected straight from the earth before enjoying a private mud bath and a rejuvenating soak in the sulphur pools.
For Adrenaline Junkies: Visit the Home of Adventure Sports
You’re honeymooning where bungy jumping and jet boating were invented, so you’d be crazy not to try the adventure sports on offer! Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island is the home of bucket list experiences for thrill-seeking newlyweds.
Speed through narrow canyons on the exhilarating Shotover Jet, launch yourself off The Remarkables in a tandem paraglide, take on the twisting tracks of the Skyline Luge or go zorbing, ziplining, white water rafting, skydiving or canyon swinging – the choice is yours! You can spend days enjoying the action-packed experiences of this scenic lakefront town.
For Nature Lovers: Experience the Magic of the Glow Worms
For a romantic experience you won’t soon forget, venture to the Bay of Plenty on the North Island for a sunset kayak. Learn the story and science of the glow worms before watching them light up the darkness in a bioluminescent display.
The Waitomo Glow Worm Caves are also a must-do! Witness a galaxy of tiny living lights as you sail through a subterranean grotto. For a side of adventure, take the plunge with black water rafting, where you’ll jump off waterfalls and float down an underground river beneath a sky of glow worms.
For Adventure Seekers: Hike on a Glacier
Take a trip to the west coast of the South Island to hike on a glacier. Traverse Fox Glacier on foot or book a private helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier for an unforgettable experience and instaworthy photo ops. Seeing the impressive ice architecture up close will be a highlight of your visit to New Zealand.
Start Making Memories in New Zealand
What better way to start your married life together than by taking the trip of a lifetime! A honeymoon in New Zealand offers the perfect balance of romance and adventure to leave you with plenty of stories to tell.
Thanks to Traveler’s Joy for these fabulous tips! Their honeymoon registry helps your wedding guests give the gift of lifelong memories.
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