14 Day New Zealand Honeymoon or Romance Itinerary

New Zealand Luxury Escapes can plan and book your perfect New Zealand honeymoon. See below for a recommended 14 Day New Zealand Honeymoon or Romance Itinerary:

• Day 1 – Auckland & Waiheke Island
• Day 2 – Waiheke Island Wine Tour
• Day 3 – Rotorua
• Day 4 – Rotorua Geothermal Flight
• Day 5 – Taupo
• Day 6 – Wellington
• Day 7 – Wellington
• Day 8 – Kaikoura
• Day 9 – Kaikoura & Whale Cruise
• Day 10 – Christchurch
• Day 11 – Lake Tekapo & Mackenzie Basin
• Day 12 – Aoraki Mt Cook Ultimate Scenic Flight
• Day 13 – Queenstown
• Day 14 – Queenstown & Milford Sound Experience
• Day 15 – Depart Queenstown

This itinerary package is completely customisable. In other words, you may like to spend longer at destinations of your choice or focus on just one island (the North Island or South Island), depending on your interests.

Read on for full details of the 14 Day New Zealand Honeymoon or Romance Itinerary.

14 Day New Zealand Honeymoon or Romance Itinerary

Day 1 Auckland + Waiheke Island

Your exclusive New Zealand honeymoon begins in Auckland, the gateway to the North Island. Get a glimpse of the city before being whisked away to Waiheke Island, a haven of beaches, picturesque vineyards and olive groves just 30 minutes from downtown Auckland by boat or 10 minutes by helicopter.

The Boatshed Hotel will be your haven for two nights, the perfect place to start your New Zealand honeymoon. This chic luxury hotel sits just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa. Look forward to a pre-organised massage on arrival if you so wish, then enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant exclusive to in-house hotel guests. New Zealand honeymoon packages include a beautiful gourmet dinner and breakfast.

Stay 2 nights on Waiheke Island.

Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island

Day 2 Waiheke Island Wine Tour

Wake up to glistening sea views and gentle bird song. If you are feeling energised, take a morning stroll to start your day, exploring trails which meander along cliff tops, down to beaches and through cool enclaves of native forest.

Spend the day tasting the best of this boutique region on a gourmet wine and food tour with Ananda Tours, the ideal New Zealand holiday experience. Visit award-winning vineyards; sample local specialties such as olive oil, wild honey, and oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay; and indulge in a platter lunch at one of the island’s top vineyard restaurants.

Please enquire for private tour options.

Day 3 Rotorua + New Zealand Honeymoon Highlights

Driving time Auckland to Rotorua 3 hours or flight time 30 minutes 

Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs. The region is also steeped in history, and is one of the best destinations to experience our fascinating Maori culture.

Unwind at Solitaire Lodge, one of New Zealand’s premiere luxury lodges. Set in lush forest with a volcanic backdrop, Solitaire Lodge enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera and is a highlight of your New Zealand honeymoon itinerary. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. While you are located within easy access of the multitude of activities on offer in Rotorua, the lodge is also the perfect place to simply relax, indulge, and rejuvenate. During your stay, take part in the daily changing menus that showcase the seasonal highlights of the region. New Zealand honeymoon packages include pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a five course evening meal, a complimentary mini bar, an extensive breakfast and a light lunch.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Accommodation: Solitaire Lodge Rotorua

Day 4 Rotorua Geothermal Flight

Experience the highlights and serene lakes around Rotorua on an exclusive Volcanic Air flight. Fly to Mt Tarawera by helicopter, stand on the crater’s edge of this sacred mountain with sweeping panoramic views and experience a thrilling walk along the crater’s edge.

Later, relax at Solitaire Lodge and enjoy an exquisite evening on the shores of Lake Tarawera.

Day 5 Taupo

Driving time Rotorua to Taupo 1 hour or flight time 20 minutes

Taupo, is a premier luxury destination known for its stunning lakefront views and exclusive outdoor experiences. Nestled in the heart of the North Island, it offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and refined indulgence.

This afternoon, enjoy a scenic flight “A Taste of Taupo” in Taupo’s Floatplane. The flight involves a watery take-off from Taupo Bay, turning over beautiful Acacia Bay, the headwaters of the Waikato River then across to the bubbling mud pools and steam vents of “Craters of the Moon” thermal area. The flight path will then pass over the bore fields of the Wairakei Power station, following the maze of pipe work to the power station itself followed by an aerial circuit of the magnificent Huka Falls, then over the town, and coming in to land along Taupo’s lakefront.

Stay at Hilton Lake Taupo and enjoy views over Lake Taupo and the surrounding volcanic scenery. Hilton Taupo’s 19th-century building combines Victorian charm with modern styling, just 10 minutes from the Taupo town centre. From your room admire the impressive views of nearby Thermal Valley and unwind in style. Hotel facilities will impress and include a thermally-heated pool and spa, tennis courts, a fitness centre, and lake-view dining from the on-site restaurant balcony. Your stay includes a delectable daily breakfast.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Accommodation: Hilton Taupo.

Day 6 Wellington

Driving time Taupo to Wellington 5 hours or flight time 1 hour

Enjoy a scenic drive from Taupo to Wellington, passing through Tongariro National Park via Desert Road, with highlights like Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s Pool), Waiouru’s National Army Museum, and a lunch stop in Taihape.

As you continue south, the route follows the west coast, offering scenic beaches and coastal views on the approach to Wellington.

Stay at Bolton Hotel, Wellington’s finest independent hotel. Bolton Hotel is conveniently close to the best of the city’s shops, cafes and restaurants and within walking distance of Wellington’s vibrant waterfront. Chic and luxurious interior with elegant finishes throughout. The spacious bathrooms feature deluxe rainfall showers and separate bathtubs while the warm and intimate living and dining rooms look out over the lush Thorndon Hills. Break and sweat or simply unwind in their fitness centre, lap pool, spa and sauna. Your stay includes a delectable daily breakfast and valet parking.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Accommodation: Bolton Hotel

Day 7 Wellington

Today is yours to unwind, and explore Wellington at your leisure.

Wellington, New Zealand, was recently named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet. Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of fine dining, with plenty of great restaurants to choose from.

Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden-sand inner-city beach and delve into the many museums, art galleries and theatre shows that make up the city’s pulsing cultural scene.

Day 8 Kaikoura + Cook Strait Ferry

Sailing time Wellington to Picton – 3.5 hours 

Enjoy one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world and one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism experiences as you sail between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island).

The three-and-a-half journey begins with a tour around Wellington Harbour before crossing the narrow channel between New Zealand’s north and south islands, which is named the Cook Straight after Captain Cook, the English explorer who first mapped it.

The final stretch of the Wellington Picton ferry journey is through the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. This sheltered stretch of water is spectacularly scenic and has inspired many journalists to name the Interislander as “one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world”. It is this hour long cruise through the Marlborough Sounds that makes the Cook Strait ferry a must-do experience for anyone visiting New Zealand.

Driving time Picton to Kaikōura, 2.5 hours

Take time to explore the top of the South Island on your New Zealand honeymoon as you journey south today. Meander down the east coast to reach the Kaikōura. Along the way you will pass through Marlborough wine country. Recognised internationally for its distinctive, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest winemaking region, home to about 65 wineries, 290 grape growers, and over 4,000 hectares planted in grapes – mainly Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.

Your accommodation is at the unforgettable Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses, located on a picturesque deer farm just north of Kaikoura. The lodge provides luxurious rooms and an intimate indoor/outdoor setting perfect for relaxation. New Zealand honeymoon packages include gourmet three-course dinners and full breakfasts.

Stay 2 nights in Kaikoura.

Accommodation: Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

Day 9 Kaikoura + Whale Flight

Experience the magic of Kaikoura whale watching with a scenic cruise to view the majestic Sperm Whales off the Kaikoura Coast. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s only marine-based whale watching company, offering visitors enchanting up-close encounters with Sperm Whales at all times of the year. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.

Following your scenic whale watching cruise, unwind and indulge in the fresh seafood on offer at Hapuku Lodge or explore the nearby trails and coastline.

Day 10 Christchurch

Driving time Kaikoura to Christchurch – 3 hours

Your next New Zealand honeymoon destination is Christchurch, a vibrant city influenced by English heritage and recent seismic events. Explore the city if you wish, or venture to Akaroa to visit wineries and the Barry’s Bay Cheesery.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Accommodation: The George Hotel

Day 11 Lake Tekapo + Mackenzie Basin

Driving time Christchurch to Lakestone Lodge – 4 hours

The Mackenzie Basin is home to some of New Zealand’s most sublime scenery. From towering peaks (including New Zealand’s tallest, Aoraki/Mt Cook) to brilliant turquoise lakes and shimmering glaciers, the Southern Alps are an awe-inspiring destination. Your first glimpse of the glacial lakes is at Lake Tekapo, a picturesque settlement surrounded by mountains.

Continuing south, you will pass by the breathtaking southern shores of Lake Pukaki before arriving at Lakestone Lodge, a purpose built, six bedroom, off grid, luxury lodge positioned in a spectacular location on the shores of Lake Pukaki. Your stay includes a three-course dinner and cooked breakfast.

In the evening, enjoy a unique stargazing experience that will treat you to the best of the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Your guide will prepare a perfectly positioned hammock so you are looking directly at the wonders above and makes you snug with a warm woollen blanket and complimentary mulled wine or hot drink. Your guide will point out all the highlights of the southern sky with a high powered laser pointer and explain some Maori legends about the sky as well as other interesting theories.

Stay 2 nights in Lake Pukaki.

Accommodation: Lakestone Lodge

Day 12 Mackenzie Basin + Mount Cook Helicopter Tour

Enjoy a relaxing morning after your late night of stargazing. In the late morning, make the scenic drive to Mount Cook Village, where you will venture deep into the wilderness on a Mount Cook Ultimate Scenic Helicopter Flight.

This is it! – if you have dreamt of truly experiencing the ultimate helicopter tour of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, then this signature helicopter flight will tick every box.

Circle the summit of New Zealand’s highest mountain -Aoraki/Mt Cook, experience a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier, discover icebergs on the Tasman Terminal Lake, view blue ice, hanging glaciers and the West Coast glaciers of Fox & Franz Josef. Gaze across to both the East & West coastlines of New Zealand’s South Island, enjoy coastal views of New Zealand’s South Island This glacier helicopter tour is the ultimate way to experience and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Mt Cook mountains. You will experience a snow landing high up on the Tasman Glacier and stand amongst the “natural silence” of this very special place. Feel as free as a bird as you gaze across the horizon and catch views of the incredible West Coast and wild Tasman Sea. Your last stop is the flight over the carved icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake on your return flight. In 50 minutes, you will have experienced the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park at its finest. Life really doesn’t get any better than this!

Day 13 Queenstown

Driving time Lakestone Lodge to Queenstown – 3 hours

Today your journey takes you to Queenstown, the ultimate honeymoon destination on New Zealand’s South Island. From world-class luxury lodges to indulgent spa experiences, superb cuisine and exclusive tours, Queenstown is a delight to experience.

The journey to Queenstown deserves to be savoured as well – stop and take in the views from the top of Lindis Pass, sample fresh fruit in Cromwell, and perhaps stop for a picturesque vineyard lunch as you pass through the Gibbston Valley.

Experience the best of Queenstown from the comfort of your luxury lodge, Blanket Bay.

Nestled amidst rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s finest Lodge – Blanket Bay. Here you willl celebrate the art of pure relaxation.

In this spectacular corner of New Zealand discover endless ways to restore your physical and spiritual well-being. There is nowhere else on Earth where there are so many activities so close by – fly-fishing and heli-skiing, the country’s best hiking on the Routeburn or Milford Tracks, jet boating and kayaking, 4WD tours, horse riding, art trails and vineyards, plus flight-seeing over the World Heritage Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. And let’s not forget the numerous international standard golf courses around Queenstown. New Zealand honeymoon packages include pre-dinner drinks and canapés, gourmet evening meal, an extensive breakfast and a light lunch.

Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.

Accommodation: Blanket Bay Lodge.

Day 14 Queenstown + Milford Sound Experience

Soar over the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland on a scenic flight to the iconic Milford Sound, where you’ll embark on a captivating 1.5-hour Nature Cruise through its majestic fjords.

With specialist nature guides on board, enjoy a close-up experience of Milford Sound’s rainforest, soaring rock walls, towering snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, hanging valleys and wildlife…words just don’t do it justice, you have to see it for yourself! Throughout the cruise, the guides share stories of the fiord’s history and are happy to answer your questions.

After your cruise, relax on the flight while your pilot delivers you back to Queenstown.

The afternoon is yours to indulge in the best Queenstown has to offer. From exclusive wine tours to a plethora of adrenaline activities on offer, Queenstown will leave you hungry for more.

Day 15 Depart Queenstown

As your unforgettable New Zealand honeymoon draws to a close, soak in the views before departing Queenstown at your leisure.

Planning your New Zealand honeymoon

Are you considering a New Zealand destination wedding or elopement ceremony? Read our New Zealand elopement packages planning guide here.

You can also browse our full range off honeymoon, elopement, and romance itineraries here.

For a shorter honeymoon, try our 7 Day Romantic or Honeymoon Itinerary.

From New Zealand’s most exclusive luxury lodges to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, our honeymoon packages showcase the very best our country has to offer.