From hot springs near alpine wilderness to forest-hugging beaches, stunning nature walks and rolling vineyards, New Zealand sets the stage for unforgettable romantic experiences. Follow our guide from the North Island to the South Island, and find out some of the best ways to enjoy a romantic getaway that suits your style.
Romantic getaways North Island
Auckland
Savour world-class dining views
For an intimate dinner with big views, Auckland Sky Tower delivers both outstanding cuisine and sensational 360-degree vistas. Standing at 328m tall, this landmark is the perfect place to enjoy a unique experience as you dine while overlooking the stunning Hauraki Gulf. There are various romantic Sky Tower restaurant options, from the rotating Orbit Restaurant to the luxurious Sugar Cube cocktail bar and high-sitting Skybar.
Reinvigorate with nature and culture
Step out together on a walk that connects to rich history and stunning natural beauty. Maungawhau (Mount Eden) means ‘mountain of the whau tree’ and is the site of one of the largest fortified Māori settlements in the region. Today you can explore the trail on this grassy volcanic slope and be rewarded with stunning views of Auckland and Waitematā Harbour. A number of walking tours also offer guides to tell you the stories of the site.
Where to stay
Enjoy the romantic getaways Auckland offers by staying in the heart of West Auckland at the four-star Quality Hotel Lincoln Green, with beaches close by and The Good Home Gastro Pub at your doorstep.
Taupō
Relax in Taupō hot spas
Escape to the beautiful Wairakei geothermal valley, where Wairekei Terraces bubble with natural silica pools and geothermal mineral waters. Surrounded by stunning valley views, this hotspot is the perfect romantic escapade, with pools that are only for adults as well as therapeutic mineral treatment sessions and steam rooms. Soak in the warm waters before taking a walk along the steaming Te Kiri o Hinekai stream, where you’ll follow cascading waters.
Picnic at stunning Lake Taupō
Roll out a blanket where the immaculate beaches of Lake Taupō meet gorgeous lakeside forests. This stunning lake offers plenty of accessible and scenic spots to share some peace and solitude. Explore the scenery by following the lakeside track to Rangatira Point, where you can take in views of the mountains in Tongariro National Park. A scenic boat cruise around the bays of Lake Taupō will also take you close to the 14-metre high Māori rock carvings.
Where to stay
Find great accommodation options in areas of spectacular natural beauty, from self-contained rooms to quality hotels.
Romantic getaways South Island
Timaru
Experience glacial lakes and alpine wonders
Get away to the stunning Southern Alps in the heart of the South Island. Just over an hour’s scenic drive from gorgeous Timaru, this is a spot that is high on the list of romantic attractions in New Zealand and not to be missed. Take in the views of the glacial Lake Tekapo’s pristine waters reflecting the surrounding mountains from Lake Tekapo lookout. Another one of the great things to do in Lake Tekapo is to check out the dark sky stargazing reserve – the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Enjoy historic coastal walks
Timaru is adorned with stunning coastal walks to explore, from the trails that line Caroline Bay to the nearby Tuhawaiki Point. Only 15 minutes drive from town, the Tuhawaiki Point lighthouse walk takes you along a special piece of coastline to Jack’s Lighthouse. Built-in the 1860s, this vantage point is a particularly idyllic place to sit and take in the coastal beauty.
Where to stay
Enjoy a memorable stay in Timaru at The Comfort Hotel Benvenue, just a few minutes walk from Caroline Bay and Aigantighe Art Gallery.
Nelson
Relaxing lunch in a vineyard
Looking for a romantic wine-lovers day out? Blessed with abundant sunshine, fresh coastal breezes and rich, fertile soil, Nelson is known for exceptional pinot noir, chardonnay and emerging varietals. Sample some of the abundant flavours at Seifried Estate Cellar Door – this vineyard has been passionately creating beautiful wine since 1973. Enjoy lunch on this stunning estate at Harvest Kitchen, surrounded by gorgeous acreages.
Connect with pristine nature
Encompassing 715 hectares of pristine native forest, the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is an invigorating place to enjoy some quality time together as you connect with nature. Only 6km from the centre of Nelson, this serene and captivating enclosure is home to an abundance of wildlife. Listen to the birdsong as you stroll through native plants and wilderness, or follow the Loop Track alongside the stream to a 19th-century waterworks reserve.
Where to stay
Relax at The Honest Lawyer, Ascend Hotel Collection in a quiet location with unique, boutique accommodation with an English Country Pub on the premises.
