Itinerary #1: New Zealand Honeymoon Road Trip: North & South Islands
Get behind the wheel for a spectacular road trip through volcanic landscapes, lush countryside, mountains, gorges, and more on this ultimate highlights honeymoon adventure. Perfect for couples traveling to New Zealand for the first time, you'll journey between must-sees, including Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, and Lake Tekapo, while also ticking off a range of bucket-list-worthy activities. Laze in hot pools under the brilliant night sky, soar above the Southern Alps in a small plane, and delight in a romantic sunset walk in Tongariro National Park.
![Rent a car on both islands of New Zealand during this two-week honeymoon](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/f2dc487d-66a5-410b-b4f1-35f16cdf66bf/original-2f3ea1e9accc9243808b782b8244471d.jpg)
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Auckland, Dinner at Ahi Restaurant | Auckland |
Day 2 | Drive to Rotorua via Hobbiton Movie Set Tour | Rotorua |
Day 3 | Visit Wai Ariki Spa, Te Pa Tu Māori Cultural Experience | Rotorua |
Day 4 | Visit Wai-O-Tapu, Mountain Jade Workshop, Drive to Taupō | Taupō |
Day 5 | Drive to Tongariro National Park, Guided Sunset Walk | Tongariro National Park |
Day 6 | Drive to Wellington, Free Time | Wellington |
Day 7 | Fly to Queenstown, Drive to Te Anau, Glowworm Caves | Te Anau |
Day 8 | Full-Day Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise | Te Anau |
Day 9 | Drive to Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Barbecue Dinner | Queenstown |
Day 10 | Private Skippers Canyon 4WD Tour, Onsen Hot Pools | Queenstown |
Day 11 | Drive to Lake Tekapo, Grand Traverse Scenic Flight | Lake Tekapo |
Day 12 | Kayak Tasman Lake, Tekapo Springs Stargazing Experience | Lake Tekapo |
Day 13 | Drive to Christchurch, Tramway Restaurant | Christchurch |
Day 14 | Depart Christchurch |
Welcome to your New Zealand honeymoon! After a rejuvenating one-night stay in Auckland, featuring dinner at the acclaimed Ahi restaurant, you'll begin your five-day road trip across the North Island. Your first destination is Rotorua, where you'll indulge in ultimate relaxation at Wai Ariki Spa and tuck into a three-course Māori feast at Te Pā Tū. Over the following three days, continue south, pausing for an overnight in the charming lakeside town of Taupō and for a hike through Tongariro National Park's volcanic landscapes. Then, from Wellington, board a flight bound for the South Island's beloved Queenstown.
Don't fall in love with Queenstown yet, though, as upon arrival, you'll collect another car and hit the road to Te Anau—your jumping-off point for a fabulous Doubtful Sound cruise. Afterward, return to Queenstown and experience the beauty of the region while cruising Lake Wakatipu, zipping along Skippers Road in a 4WD, and enjoying a romantic evening in an onsen hot pool. Then, continue to Lake Tekapo and take in the grandeur of the Southern Alps from the seat of a small plane and with a paddle in hand. Later, conquer the final leg of your road trip to Christchurch, where you'll bid farewell. Learn more
Itinerary #2: New Zealand's South Island Active Honeymoon
Kayak, cruise, hike, jetboat, and cycle your way through the South Island's pristine wilderness on this action-packed honeymoon. Ideal for adventure-loving couples, each day gets you exploring deep in remarkable landscapes—from the wildlife-filled bays of Akaroa to the drowned valleys of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. With a rental car on hand, enjoy the freedom of the open road and cherish quality time together amid nature's wonders.
![Drive your way from east to west while exploring the South Island's best national parks and attractions](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/f1b0f1b6-ae60-4ca5-871c-a4723fb4a82a/original-c398b85e4b75e5d0c6d4ab068714e0c3.jpg)
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Christchurch, Tramway Restaurant Experience | Christchurch |
Day 2 | Full-Day TranzAlpine Train to Arthur's Pass & Return | Christchurch |
Day 3 | Drive to Akaroa, Dolphin Cruise | Akaroa |
Day 4 | Kayak at Flea Bay, Blue Penguin Evening Tour | Akaroa |
Day 5 | Drive to Lake Tekapo, Tekapo Springs StarGazing | Lake Tekapo |
Day 6 | The Grand Traverse Scenic Flight, Cass Valley Backcountry Tour | Lake Tekapo |
Day 7 | Drive to Wānaka, Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour | Wānaka |
Day 8 | Self-Guided Mou Waho Island Adventure | Wānaka |
Day 9 | Drive to Clyde / Maniototo, Otago Cycling Trail | Clyde |
Day 10 | Drive to Te Anau, River Bike Ride & Jet Boat Experience | Te Anau |
Day 11 | Milford Sound / Piopiotahi Cruise | Te Anau |
Day 12 | Drive to Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Barbecue Dinner | Queenstown |
Day 13 | Full-Day Funyak Safari & Jetboat Tour | Queenstown |
Day 14 | Depart Queenstown |
Start your enchanting New Zealand honeymoon in Christchurch, enjoying a romantic dinner tram ride and a round trip on the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, offering stunning vistas. Then, with a rental car collected, drive east to the French-influenced coastal town of Akaroa and spend two days cruising, kayaking, and off-roading in search of dolphins, blue penguins, and more. Next up is Lake Tekapo, and throughout your stay, you'll get well acquainted with the Southern Alps thanks to an extraordinary scenic flight and 4WD backcountry tour. Afterward, continue to Wānaka and hand the reins to a local guide for a winery tour.
Week two of your grand getaway kicks off with a self-guided tour of Lake Wānaka's Mou Waho Island; then, you're off to Clyde for an Otago Central Rail Trail cycling adventure. Your following two days feature the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park. While based in the charming town of Te Anau, you'll jet boat along the turquoise waters of the Upper Waiau River and cruise Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Lastly, make your way to Queenstown to indulge in a romantic dinner on a scenic high-country farm and explore the beautiful waterways of Mount Aspiring National Park before catching your departing flight. Learn more
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Itinerary #3: New Zealand's North Island Honeymoon Highlights
Expertly crafted to highlight the North Island's volcanic landscapes and pristine coastlines, this well-rounded honeymoon trip promises a unique blend of romance, adventure, and scenic drives. Over two weeks, make your way from Auckland through the North Island's geothermal and lake-dotted interior to the vibrant capital city of Wellington. Along the way, a mix of hiking, wine tours, and wildlife safaris make this itinerary perfect for couples seeking both adrenaline-inducing and laid-back excursions.
![Your most active day will be a full-day hike in Tongariro National Park](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/64a18039-feac-4612-bb0d-2b19df7fac75/original-9cd5cda9eabef1d54fbd292e4db38133.jpg)
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Auckland, Dinner at Ahi Restaurant | Auckland |
Day 2 | All Blacks Rugby Experience, Wētā Workshop, Drive to Coromandel | Coromandel |
Day 3 | Glass Bottom Boat Tour, Free Time | Coromandel |
Day 4 | Drive to Rotorua, Wai Ariki Spa, Te Puia Cultural Experience | Rotorua |
Day 5 | Visit Hell's Gate, Evening Redwoods Treewalk | Rotorua |
Day 6 | Visit Wai-O-Tapu, Orakei Korako Tour, Drive to Taupo | Taupō |
Day 7 | Tongariro River Whitewater Rafting, Lake Taupo Cruise | Taupō |
Day 8 | Drive to Napier, Art Deco Vintage Car Tour | Napier |
Day 9 | Gannet Safaris, Free Time | Napier |
Day 10 | Drive to Tongariro National Park, Two-Hour Sunset Guided Walk | Tongariro National Park |
Day 11 | Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing | Tongariro National Park |
Day 12 | Drive to Martinborough, Half-Day Wine Tour | Martinborough |
Day 13 | Drive to Wellington, Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary | Wellington |
Day 14 | Depart Wellington |
Upon arriving in Auckland, celebrate the start of your honeymoon with dinner at the acclaimed Ahi restaurant, followed by visits to an All Blacks experience and Wētā Workshop, a film effects company best known for its work on "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. Next, escape to the rugged Coromandel Peninsula, exploring by glass-bottom boat and soaking in a self-dug, geothermally heated mineral pool. More fascinating adventures await in Rotorua, including a walk amid the bubbling mud pits of Hell's Gate and at Wai-O-Tapu. Additionally, stroll through the majestic Redwood Forest before continuing to Taupō to embark on a thrilling Tongariro River whitewater rafting expedition.
Your road trip continues to Napier, and after spending your first day cruising around its Art Deco Quarter, detour to Cape Kidnappers for a memorable bird-watching safari. Then, don your trail shoes for amazing hikes in Tongariro National Park, including the Taranaki Falls loop and the magnificent Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Weary legs will appreciate a scenic drive to Martinborough, especially as upon your arrival, a guide awaits to whisk you out on a winery-hopping tour. Afterward, wrap up your honeymoon in Wellington, admiring native birdlife at Zealandia and strolling beautiful gardens. Learn more
Itinerary #4: Ultimate New Zealand Winter Honeymoon
Discover the incredible beauty of New Zealand's winter landscapes on this snowy honeymoon adventure. Between bucket-list-worthy experiences, including a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, and a Milford Sound / Piopiotahi cruise, you'll cuddle up in bubbling hot springs selected for their picturesque settings. Additionally, a visit to the serene Great Barrier Island and a relaxing afternoon on a high country farm make this an ideal escape for honeymooners seeking both adventure and seclusion.
![Finish the honeymoon road trip in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/8734dbc1-3275-4bfd-a227-96d23b566112/original-997d2f69c3ba0479b0b6f058c7a14834.jpg)
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Auckland, Dinner at Ahi Restaurant | Auckland |
Day 2 | Full-Day Fly & Cruise to Great Barrier & Waiheke Islands | Auckland |
Day 3 | All Blacks Rugby Experience, Wētā Workshop, Drive to Rotorua | Rotorua |
Day 4 | Mountain Jade Workshop, Visit Wai Ariki Spa | Rotorua |
Day 5 | Visit Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu Valley Self-Guided Walk & Boat Cruise | Rotorua |
Day 6 | Fly to Christchurch, Tramway Dinner Experience | Christchurch |
Day 7 | Hot-Air Balloon Flight, Drive to Hanmer Springs | Hanmer Springs |
Day 8 | Full-Day Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa Experience | Hanmer Springs |
Day 9 | Drive to Geraldine, Mesopotamia High Country Station 4WD Tour | Geraldine |
Day 10 | Drive to Lake Tekapo, Scenic Flight, Stargazing Experience | Lake Tekapo |
Day 11 | Drive to Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Barbecue Dinner | Queenstown |
Day 12 | Full-Day Fly & Cruise to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi | Queenstown |
Day 13 | Skippers Canyon 4WD Tour, Evening Onsen Session | Queenstown |
Day 14 | Depart Queenstown |
You might be arriving in Auckland in winter, but thanks to the North Island's temperate climate, you'll be plenty comfortable while sipping your way through Waiheke Island's finest wineries. Then, in Rotorua, craft something special for your significant other at a jade carving workshop before immersing yourselves in its geothermal landscapes through visits to Wai-O-Tapu sulfurous pools and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Afterward, fly to Christchurch, where you'll kick off the South Island portion of your journey. First up, you'll thrill to a sunrise hot-air balloon flight, followed by a rejuvenating retreat at Hanmer Springs.
After soaking to your heart's content in Hanmer Springs, continue to the Mesopotamia High Country Station for an exciting 4WD journey. Nearby awaits the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, looking extra photo-worthy with the surrounding mountains blanketed in snow, which you'll take in from onboard a scenic flight. Then, shrug off the cold during a unique stargazing and hot pool experience before setting your sights on Queenstown. With a three-day stay here, you'll have plenty of time to venture to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, explore Skippers Road, and unwind in an onsen until the time arrives to bid farewell. Learn more
Itinerary #5: Honeymoon Hiking Adventure in New Zealand
Completely immerse yourselves in New Zealand's dramatic landscapes and mesmerizing countryside on this hiking-forward honeymoon. Perfect for newlyweds eager to get off the beaten path in dramatic fashion, you'll dedicate three days to Kaikōura's renowned coastal track, spend two days hiking and camping at Ridge Top Farm, and trek the length of the 22-mile (35 km) Banks Track. And that's not to mention the day hikes you'll conquer together in Tongariro National Park and the Marlborough Sounds.
![Take the ferry to Picton on the South Island for the full-day Queen Charlotte Track](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/35d85ac1-b9ec-4f7c-bd24-ccb078710b7d/original-35f8002eb1c485ff72f8a3e763a273e8.jpg)
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Auckland, Free Time, Dinner Cruise | Auckland |
Day 2 | Drive to Rotorua, Self-Guided Hike & Cruise, Wai Ariki Spa Session | Rotorua |
Day 3 | Crater Walk, Te Pa Tu Maori Cultural Experience | Rotorua |
Day 4 | Drive to Tongariro National Park, Sunset Guided Walk | Tongariro |
Day 5 | Drive to Ridge Top Farm, Free Time | Ridge Top Farm |
Day 6 | Hiking at Ridge Top Farm (Day 1) | Ridge Top Farm |
Day 7 | Hiking at Ridge Top Farm (Day 2), Drive to Wellington, Ferry to Picton | Picton |
Day 8 | Queen Charlotte Track Full-Day Hike: Torea Bay to Punga Cove | Picton |
Day 9 | Drive to Kaikoura, Whale Watching Flight, Kaikoura Coast Track (Day 1) | Kaikoura |
Day 10 | Kaikoura Coast Track (Day 2) | Kaikoura |
Day 11 | Kaikoura Coast Track (Day 3), Drive to Akaroa | Akaroa |
Day 12 | Banks Track (Day 1) | Akaroa |
Day 13 | Banks Track (Day 2), Drive to Christchurch | Christchurch |
Day 14 | Depart Christchurch |
While your adventure begins with a leisurely day in Auckland, cruising Waitematā Harbour, you'll soon be hitting the road to Rotorua to tick off the first of many hikes. Start with a trek in Waimangu Volcanic Valley, then conquer the trail to Mount Tarawera's crater before continuing to Tongariro National Park. An overnight here allows you to learn about the local geography from a hiking guide, and the following day's journey to Ridge Top Farm introduces you to the charm of rural New Zealand—especially considering you'll be staying in a tranquil campsite with prime access to lesser-trodden hiking trails.
The second half of your adventures features the unspoiled coastlines of the South Island's north, starting with the extraordinary Marlborough Sounds. While using Picton as your base, explore the beautiful bays found along the Queen Charlotte Track. Then, continue south to Kaikōura, where a three-day walk on the Kaikōura Track awaits, complete with luggage transfers and stays in cozy farm cottages. Afterward, enjoy a quick refresh, as soon, you'll tackle a two-day on-foot journey along the volcanic coastline and sandy beaches of the Banks Track before wrapping up your trip in Christchurch. Learn more
More Great 2-Week New Zealand Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to New Zealand? Check out these other two-week New Zealand itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.