A honeymoon is ultimately the culmination of your wedding adventure, alongside the person you’ve chosen to spend the rest of your life with. It gives you time to relax, connect, get closer and create memories in a place far away from home.
Typically, the best honeymoons are filled with adventure, laughter and unbridled joy. This is precisely why you should visit New Zealand, which serves as the ideal location for the perfect honeymoon.
New Zealand is one of the most spectacular places on earth, where you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life. If you’re looking for adventure, breath-taking views, natural hot springs, diverse culture, unique wildlife and adrenaline pumping activities, you’ll find it all in ‘The Land of the Long White Cloud’.
Here, we’ve highlighted some of the best-kept secret locations you should consider when honeymooning in New Zealand.
Touch the world’s largest hot spring at Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Frying Pan Lake, in the Waimangy Volcanic Valley
Just a short drive from Rotorua, Waimangu is home to the light blue, steaming inferno crater, Frying Pan Lake, as well as Lake Rotomahana. You can get energised with a Waimangu walking tour, luxuriate on a Rotomahan boat cruise, and see the only geothermal system created by a volcanic eruption. You can also soak-up the atmosphere of the valley, follow nature trails through the inferno crater and be captivated by vigorously bubbling hot springs. There are even some rare plants present that have adapted to Waimangu’s hot earth, creating a new ecosystem out of total devastation. The award-winning eco-centre is open every day from 8:30 am.
Explore an unusual beach at Waikawau Beach Tunnel
Waikawau beach is one of the few publicly accessible parts of coastline between Awakino and Marokopa. The only access to the beach is via a short, man-made cave that is simply breathtaking to look at. It was carved by three local labourers armed with shovels and picks in 1911. Here, you can explore face carvings, waterfalls and white cliffs. The beach is typical of the west coast, featuring scattered rocks and dark sands. It is isolated and quiet, making it a great spot to spend the day in
solitude whilst swimming in natural waterholes formed by the surf. You can even bring along a net to catch some whitebait.
Release your water animal at Matapouri Bay
Matapouri Bay
Matapouri Bay boasts a striking white sandy beach, perfect for a honeymoon getaway destination. The bay is just ten minutes away from Tutukaka, where you can explore Mermaid Pools at low tide and swim in the estuary. Join the natives in jumping off the bridge and unleash your adventurous side. You can also launch from a boat ramp, while other attractions in the area include Ngunguru, Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve and Whale Bay.
Hiking to Anapai Bay
Anapai Bay
Located in the Abel Tasman National Park, Anapai Bay is one of New Zealand’s best secret beaches. You can only get here by hiking or with a boat, which only adds to its secrecy. The hike usually takes three hours to complete (there and back), while if the tide is favourable, you can even cut out the estuary to save time.
There are two beaches on the bay; the first is a stunningly beautiful, long beach with golden sands and a clear view of the ocean. The other side of the bay is quieter and deserted, providing a great place to spend the day away from prying eyes with your loved one. There is a small campsite if you want to stay the night.
See the endangered Birds at the untouched Kapiti Island
Kapiti Island
Kapiti Island is a nature reserve that houses some of the most endangered birds in New Zealand, creating a safe haven for them in which to thrive. Access to the Island is limited only to small groups via a licensed tour operator. It’s a great way to spend the day with your partner and relax on a beach, surrounded by wild birds and raw nature.
There are many activities to enjoy on the Kapiti Coast; for instance, Queen Elizabeth Park is a beachside location, where you can picnic, swim, cycle or walk. Grab lunch at the Marine Parade Eatery, which is designed to mirror a Robinson Crusoe theme, with a great view of the island and an impressive international menu. Meanwhile, discover a wide range of native New Zealand species at Nga Manu, such as a three-eyed lizard, kiwi birds, kaka parrots, tui, and eels.
Try some of the weirdest extreme sports in Queenstown
The Shotover jet in Queenstown.
Queenstown is the best place in the world if you and your partner are looking to go the extra mile and engage in extreme sports. The hydro attack is a Seabreacher X watercraft that looks like a shark, taking you in and out of the water in a manner that will put your heart in your mouth. Water sledging puts your nose in the waterfall and discovers the steepest luge ride in a go-cart half slide, ideal for any adventurous couple. Remember to check your travel insurance from Air New Zealand to protect your trip whilst holidaying in New Zealand.
Spy on some of the rarest species of seal at Waipapa Point
The Waipapa Point lighthouse.
Waipapa is a coastal heaven, deep in The Catlins, where there’s seemingly an incredible sight to behold round every corner – most of which are absolutely free to experience. Start off at Waipapa Point, where you’ll find the lighthouse, a memorial for sea lions, as well as a shipwreck. Note that there are many rocks that make it difficult to spot the sea lions, but you could just be lucky enough to see one and take a good picture all the while. You can increase your chances of spotting a sea lion by visiting when there aren’t too many tourists in the area.
Discover the beauty of Marokopa Falls
Marokopa Falls
Often described as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand, Marokopa cascades from an impressive height of 35m. The waterfall is located in Tawarau Forest, a short drive away from the popular Waitomo caves, where you’ll also find the striking glow worms. Marookopa Falls is noticeably wide and features an interesting rock formation down the side. The
walk to the fall is convenient for anyone; at the right time of year, you’ll be led to a viewing platform with an incredible view of the waterfall and an opportunity to take some amazing photos. Other top attractions nearby include Piripiri Cave and Mangopohue Natural Bridge (both with free entry).
Conclusion
New Zealand is an amazing country to explore. No matter what time of the year you care to visit or activity you prefer, this nation of extremely friendly people welcomes you with open arms and offers some of the most awe-inspiring views and natural wonders you’ll ever see.
