20 Day New Zealand Honeymoon Tour 

Upon arrival, you’ll be met and privately transferred from Auckland International Airport to your accommodation, allowing you to relax and begin your honeymoon in style. Spend the remainder of the day soaking up the atmosphere of New Zealand’s vibrant harbour city, whether it’s a waterfront stroll, a glass of local wine, or simply unwinding after your journey.

Depending on your flight arrival time, you may wish to enhance your first day with one of our optional experiences. Take in breathtaking panoramic views from the iconic Sky Tower or immerse yourselves in New Zealand’s sporting culture at the All Blacks Experience. For a more romantic start, consider an evening harbour cruise or a memorable dinner overlooking the sparkling city skyline.

AUCKLAND / TĀMAKI MAKAURAU – an exciting, sporting and cultural city, sprawled on a narrow isthmus, between two harbours. The Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, are a main feature of the city, along with numerous volcanic cones such as Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island. The city’s many beaches, marinas and parks, make it ideal for outdoor pursuits such as yachting, rugby, cricket or a day at the beach. The Auckland metropolitan area is New Zealand’s biggest city, and the population mix of European, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

Today, escape to the idyllic Waiheke Island with a scenic 40-minute Fullers 360 return ferry cruise from downtown Auckland. Admire spectacular views of the Auckland skyline and sparkling Waitematā Harbour before arriving on an island renowned for its boutique vineyards, olive groves, golden beaches, and relaxed coastal charm, making it the perfect setting for a romantic day together.

On arrival at Matiatia Ferry Terminal, meet your Ananda Tours guide for The Essence of Wine Tour. Visit three of Waiheke Island’s finest boutique vineyards and enjoy premium wine tastings in stunning vineyard settings while learning about the island’s unique terroir and winemaking heritage. With award-winning wines, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of time to relax together, this experience is a memorable highlight of your New Zealand honeymoon.

At the end of your tour, return to Auckland by ferry, or chat with your Ananda guide about extending your time on Waiheke Island with a leisurely vineyard lunch. It’s the perfect opportunity to savour another glass of wine and enjoy some uninterrupted time together in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful settings.

Start by collecting your Compact SUV Budget Rental Car, before leaving Auckland and heading south through the lush, rolling green hills of the Waikato region. As New Zealand’s rich farming heartland unfolds before you, enjoy an easy and scenic drive as your honeymoon journey continues.

En route, discover the underground wonder of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you’ll explore spectacular limestone formations on a guided walk before gliding by boat beneath thousands of tiny native glowworms illuminating the cavern ceiling.

Continue through the Waikato’s picturesque countryside, passing rolling green farmland that showcases the region’s reputation as the heart of New Zealand’s dairy country. Arrive at your boutique historic homestead accommodation, Villa Walton, where you’ll relax and unwind for the evening.

MATAMATA/MATAMATA – lies in the lush farmland of the Hamilton-Waikato Region. Famous for dairying and fine thoroughbred horses, it’s easy to see why these green pastures and rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire. A number of great farmstays are also on offer in Matamata. Just east of town you can discover the North Island’s highest waterfalls, Wairere Falls, of which a spectacular sight plunging 153m. The Wairere Falls walking track showcases a diverse range of natural scenery and from the lookout you can enjoy magnificent views over the valley and the Waikato Plains.

Leaving Matamata behind, continue south towards Rotorua, where the landscape begins to reveal New Zealand’s volcanic heartland. As you approach Rotorua, the distinctive sulphur-rich air signals your arrival in one of the country’s most unique destinations, where bubbling mud pools, steaming geothermal landscapes, and rich Māori culture come together.

On arrival in Rotorua, unwind with a relaxing hot tub experience at Secret Spot Hot Tubs. Soak in pure geothermal water surrounded by native forest, embracing the tranquillity of the Rotorua landscape. This peaceful and intimate experience is the perfect way to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy some quality time together after your journey.

Tonight, you’ll be collected from your hotel by Te Puia for your Te Po – Indigenous Evening Experience. This immersive evening is a celebration of Māori culture. The experience begins with a traditional pōwhiri (welcome), followed by a cultural performance of traditional songs and the haka. You’ll then be treated to a delicious hāngī buffet dinner, which is an authentic Māori feast. After dinner, you’ll be taken to the illuminated Pōhutu Geyser for a mesmerizing view under the stars before returning to your hotel.

ROTORUA – located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Māori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Māori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

Dependent on your flight choice, enjoy a relaxed morning in Rotorua to explore more of the region’s geothermal wonders and cultural highlights, or make your way to Christchurch and spend the afternoon discovering the city’s vibrant cafés, boutiques, and attractions.

Rotorua to Christchurch (Air New Zealand flight): Return your rental car at Rotorua Airport before taking a quick and convenient flight between the North and South Islands, saving valuable time to spend exploring. Sit back and enjoy the scenic journey across New Zealand before arriving in Christchurch, where your South Island honeymoon adventure begins.

On arrival in Christchurch, collect your next rental car and make your way to your accommodation. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the city at your own pace. Stroll along the River Avon, wander through the Botanic Gardens, discover charming cafés and boutiques, or simply soak up Christchurch’s unique blend of heritage and modern creativity.

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI – Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures.

Today, discover the heart of Christchurch on the Amiki Cultural Food Tours – City Meander guided walking tour. Wander through hidden laneways, lush gardens, and historic landmarks while sampling a delicious selection of local food and drinks. Along the way, your passionate local guide will share Māori and multicultural stories, offering fascinating insights into Christchurch’s history, culture, and vibrant modern identity.

Continue exploring the city with your Christchurch Tramway all-day pass. Travel aboard beautifully restored heritage trams and hop on and off at 18 convenient stops, including the Botanic Gardens, Riverside Market, and the charming New Regent Street. Entertaining live commentary from the tram drivers brings Christchurch’s rich history to life, making this both a practical way to explore and a memorable sightseeing experience.

Later, unwind with one of Christchurch’s most iconic attractions, Punting on the Avon. Relax aboard a traditional flat-bottomed punt as your Edwardian-attired punter glides you along the tranquil Avon River. Drift past graceful weeping willows, the Botanic Gardens, and picturesque riverside scenery while enjoying a unique perspective of the city.

Today, depart Christchurch and journey north along one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal drives. Follow the Pacific coastline, where dramatic ocean views and rugged cliffs accompany you for much of the journey. Keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks beside the highway before arriving in the charming seaside town of Kaikōura, renowned for its incredible marine wildlife and breathtaking mountain-meets-ocean scenery.

On arrival in Kaikōura, embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure from the exclusive Captain’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura. This premium experience includes priority boarding, spacious premium seating, and the opportunity to interact with the captain while gaining fascinating insights into the vessel’s navigation and the search for marine wildlife. Relax with a gourmet food box and refreshments as you watch for majestic sperm whales, playful dolphins, seals, and seabirds in the nutrient-rich waters off the Kaikōura coast.

Tonight, escape to your secluded Manakau PurePod, where luxury and nature come together for an unforgettable stay. Designed entirely from glass, your eco-cabin offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape by day and a spectacular star-filled sky by night.  Set on a peaceful hilltop surrounded by native kānuka and birdsong, the Manakau PurePod enjoys sweeping views across rolling farmland to the majestic Seaward Kaikōura Ranges.

Today, your journey takes you north along State Highway 1, with the Pacific Ocean on your right and the mountains on your left. It’s an easy and beautiful trip. You’ll pass through some lovely coastal scenery before arriving in the rolling vineyards of the Marlborough region, with Blenheim at its center.

We suggest spending the afternoon exploring award-winning wineries, boutique cellar doors, gourmet food producers, and the relaxed charm of this beautiful wine-growing destination.

BLENHEIM/WAIHARAKEKE – the “Sunshine Capital” of New Zealand is situated on the Wairau Plain near the top of the South Island. Blenheim’s combination of high sunshine hours, a long ripening period, and free-draining river flats have put the district’s vineyards at the forefront of the International Wine Industry. The second Saturday of February is Blenheim’s Wine and Food Festival which draws many to celebrate food, music and dance.

Tonight, unwind at St Leonards Vineyard Cottages, a charming vineyard retreat surrounded by rolling vines, friendly farm animals, and peaceful countryside. Be sure to indulge in one of their delicious gourmet platters, perfectly paired with a glass of Marlborough wine.

Today, experience the best of Marlborough with a Explore Marlborough guided wine and cycling adventure that perfectly blends local flavours with stunning scenery. Spend the morning with your friendly local guide, visiting three carefully selected wineries as you cycle along peaceful vineyard trails, river stop-banks, and quiet country roads. Along the way, soak up spectacular views of the Richmond Ranges, Wither Hills, Wairau River, and Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards while learning about the region’s fascinating history and renowned winemaking heritage.

After your guided morning, relax over a delicious gourmet grazing platter featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, and regional produce. Then set off at your own pace for an afternoon of self-guided cycling, with maps and personalised recommendations to help you discover more boutique cellar doors and hidden gems throughout Marlborough Wine Country.

Prefer to leave the bike behind? You can easily swap your afternoon self-guided cycling for one of our recommended optional experiences. Cruise through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds with Cougar Line’s Cruise ‘n’ Walk, combining spectacular scenery with a leisurely walk in the native bush, or discover the very best of the region on a Marlborough Icons Tour, showcasing award-winning wineries, local gourmet produce, and some of Marlborough’s most iconic attractions.

Today, journey north from Blenheim through the picturesque Marlborough countryside towards the stunning Abel Tasman region. Travel through the rolling landscapes of the Rai Valley, following winding roads surrounded by native bush, forests, and peaceful rural scenery. As you approach the coast, the scenery transforms with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and the relaxed coastal charm of Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

KAITERITERI – Loved for its beautiful golden sand beach, the sunny town of Kaiteriteri is a launching place for trips into the Abel Tasman National Park. This attractive beach town is 13 kilometres from Motueka and handy to the Abel Tasman National Park. Known for its beautiful golden sand (made of quartz and mica particles) and clear blue-green water, Kaiteriteri has a motor camp, motels, a general store and a choice of places to eat (check out the seafood). Local hikes include Withells Walk and Kaka Pah Point. From Kaiteriteri you can catch a water taxi or tour into the Abel Tasman National Park; you can also hire kayaks or arrange to go seal swimming.

Today, explore the natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park at your own pace with a Cruise & Walk adventure. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the coastline, passing the iconic Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony before choosing your preferred beach drop-off point. From here, set out on a walk through native forest and along golden beaches, with a convenient return shuttle collecting you at the end of your day.

Today, enjoy an unforgettable Abel Tasman sailing adventure combining coastal scenery, wildlife, and a beautiful beach walk. Set sail along the golden coastline, keeping an eye out for playful fur seals and the park’s stunning marine landscapes. Step ashore at Anchorage Bay and explore one of Abel Tasman’s most scenic walking tracks, winding through native forest and along pristine beaches before returning by sail.

Today, embark on a spectacular journey from Nelson towards the rugged West Coast, travelling west before turning south along one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal routes. The road winds through lush native bush, dramatic landscapes, and remote coastal scenery, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire sweeping ocean views, towering cliffs, and untamed natural beauty along the way.

As you continue towards Punakaiki, the landscape becomes increasingly wild and rugged, showcasing the raw beauty of the West Coast. This charming coastal village is renowned for its unique limestone formations and the famous Pancake Rocks, where powerful ocean swells surge through blowholes, creating dramatic sprays and a thunderous roar. Surrounded by rainforest, coastline, and unforgettable scenery, Punakaiki offers a true taste of New Zealand’s wild west.

PUNAKAIKI – is the gateway to the dramatic limestone country of the Paparoa National Park. It lies halfway between Greymouth and Westport on one of the most spectacular coastal highways. The Pancake Rocks that Punakaiki is famous for are limestone formations that began forming 30 million years ago. The seabed was raised above sea level by earthquakes to form the coastal cliffs and coastline. The sea, wind and rain have since etched out the soft layers to form the unusual rock formations we see today. When conditions are right, large ocean swells thunder into the caverns beneath the rocks and huge water spouts blast skywards through the blowholes creating a spectacular sight. Tourism activities in the area include canoe adventures, horse trekking, caving and guided walks to name just a few.

Today, continue south from Punakaiki towards Franz Josef, following the spectacular West Coast route along State Highway 6. This unforgettable journey showcases some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery, with rugged coastline, lush rainforest, wild rivers, and the Southern Alps providing a breathtaking backdrop throughout the drive.

Take time to explore the highlights along the way, including a stop in Hokitika, a charming coastal town with a rich gold-mining history, vibrant arts scene, and famous driftwood-lined beach. For a memorable detour, visit Hokitika Gorge, where a short walk leads through native forest to striking turquoise waters framed by dramatic rock cliffs.

Continue south through the remote beauty of the West Coast, passing through small settlements, glacier-fed rivers, and dense rainforest before arriving in Franz Josef.

On arrival in Franz Josef, experience one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable honeymoon adventures with a breathtaking heli-hike onto the Franz Josef Glacier. Soar above the dramatic glacier landscape before landing high on the ice, where your expert guide will lead you on an incredible journey across this frozen wilderness. Equipped with specialist boots and crampons, explore a constantly changing world of towering ice formations, deep crevasses, and sculpted ice caves during a guided two-and-a-half-hour glacier hike. Combining adventure, romance, and awe-inspiring scenery, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is a true highlight of your honeymoon and a memory you’ll treasure forever.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER/WAIAU – originally named Victoria, after Queen Victoria of England, geologist Julius Von Haast, renamed it, Franz Josef, after the current Emperor of his homeland, Austria. The Glacier is pale blue/green ice that has retreated and advanced many times over the years. A walk from the carpark to the Glacier terminal will give you some impressive views and an idea of the immense size of the Glacier itself. The township of Franz Josef is a small town based around the tourist and supply trade.

This is a trip you’ll never forget. You’ll leave the unique rainforest environment of Franz Josef, passing through the Haast Pass, with waterfalls and lush native bush, before the landscape completely changes into the rugged high-country of Central Otago. It’s an epic journey that ends in the bustling town of Wānaka.

For a truly memorable experience, enjoy a scenic walk, discover hidden viewpoints, or simply relax with a glass of wine while soaking up the beauty of this charming lakeside town. With its tranquil atmosphere, spectacular landscapes, and intimate setting, Wānaka offers the perfect blend of adventure and romance, creating a beautiful honeymoon retreat in the heart of the South Island.

WANAKA – faces north across Lake Wanaka, to views of the surrounding mountains, which are often reflected on the Lake’s surface on calm days. Poplars and willows grow around the Lake’s edge, affording a colourful show during autumn. Wanaka is best known for boating, fishing and skiing at the Cardrona and Treble Cone ski-fields.

Today, you’ll spend the day with Wanaka Wine Tours exploring Wānaka’s hidden wine gems on a boutique wine trail through the region’s picturesque vineyards. Your local guide will introduce you to small, family-owned wineries where you’ll meet passionate winemakers and discover the stories behind their craft.

Enjoy tastings of handcrafted local wines, with a focus on Wānaka’s acclaimed Pinot Noir, while learning about the unique alpine climate and terroir that make this region so special. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, this relaxed and intimate experience is a wonderful way to savour the flavours and charm of Wānaka.

Today, depart Wānaka and travel over the stunning Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest main road, towards the Queenstown region. Wind your way through the picturesque Cardrona Valley, passing the iconic historic Cardrona Hotel and enjoying sweeping alpine views along the journey.

As you descend the dramatic switchbacks of the Crown Range, take in breathtaking vistas across the Wakatipu Basin, with rugged mountains and Lake Wakatipu creating an unforgettable backdrop. Check into your accommodation at Kinross Cottages, a peaceful retreat surrounded by vineyards, mountains, and the natural beauty of the Central Otago landscape. This afternoon visit beautiful Gibbston Valley for a Wine Cave Tour.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA – is the South Island’s most popular resort, set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. The town is renowned for its jet boating, bungy-jumping, skiing and awe-inspiring scenery. Local story has it, that the gold prospectors of the 19th century pronounced the town as “fit for any Queen”, and so she was called Queenstown.

This morning, experience the thrill of Queenstown’s iconic Shotover Jet ride as you race through the dramatic canyons of the Shotover River. Feel the adrenaline as you navigate narrow gorges, sweeping around rocky outcrops, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.

This afternoon is yours to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Choose from a selection of optional experiences, from scenic cruises and wine tasting to adventurous activities or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning lake and mountain views.

Enjoy a free day in Queenstown and soak up the adventure capital of New Zealand at your own pace. Stroll along the sparkling lakefront, browse quirky shops and cafes, or simply relax and take in the stunning mountain scenery.

For an unforgettable day trip, consider an optional journey to Milford Sound, where you can travel through the spectacular Fiordland landscape before cruising beneath towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic rainforest-covered mountains. Alternatively, choose from a range of other optional experiences, and chat with your consultant about adding a little extra adventure to your Queenstown stay.

After a day exploring Queenstown, unwind this evening at Onsen Hot Pools, the original alpine hot pool experience. This private hot pool experience is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate in a luxurious setting. You’ll have a private indoor or outdoor hot pool, where you can soak in the hot water and enjoy the panoramic views of the Shotover River canyon. The experience is intimate and tranquil, with each tub holding up to four people, and you can even add on a massage.

Depending on your flight time, take a final moment to enjoy Queenstown at a relaxed pace. Your consultant can help you make the most of these last precious hours.

Return your rental car to Queenstown Airport and depart New Zealand with unforgettable memories of your honeymoon adventure.