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Honeymoon itinerary · by Michael Nees

10-day South Island honeymoon itinerary

The 10 Days South Island honeymoon is perfect for lovers. Take part in amazing tour experiences and stay in private vineyard cottages and stylish lodges.

Highlights

  • Discover the lush native forest of the famous Milford Track.
  • Jet boat down the beautiful Wanaka River and take a flight over majestic glaciers.
  • Indulge your passion for the outdoors with skydiving, zip-lining and caving.
  • Explore the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park by kayaking between the beaches.
  • Relax in a locally-owned vineyard or simply enjoy a romantic walk on a golden beach.

Day by day

  1. Day 1

    Te Anau

    Take a domestic flight from Auckland to Queenstown and collect your rental car. Drive to Te Anau, a 2 hour drive from Queenstown airport. Check-in to your romantic accommodation cottage then do an easy local walk, such as the nearby Kepler Track.

  2. Day 2

    Te Anau

    An early start today with pick-up from Te Anau and transport to Milford Sound. With your local guide you'll take a short water taxi ride to the beginning of the Milford Guided Day Track. See lush rain-forests, breath pure oxygen and view local bird-life. Transfer back to Milford Sound Wharf in the afternoon and join the scenic cruise into the fjord. Transfer back to Te Anau.

    Stay: Dusky Ridges (opens in a new tab)

  3. Day 3

    Wanaka

    The drive to Queenstown only takes 2.5 hours, so you'll have time to check out the original Kawarau Bungy Bridge and local wineries before heading to Wanaka. Wanaka has a relaxed village atmosphere and if you want a laid back vibe, stay outside Wanaka is a peaceful and private lodge. If you crave the nightlife and world-class facilities, then stay in Queenstown. Either way, the Wanaka-Queenstown region (with Cromwell and Cardrona in between) offers an endless supply of active adventure.

  4. Day 4

    Wanaka

    Wanaka is a glorious place to hang out and do local tours and fun activities. In the morning, join the exciting Wanaka River Journeys, heading up the Matukituki River and learn more about the Otago region. In the afternoon do one of the local hikes or join one of the optional tours listed. Lots to do and see in Wanaka!

    Stay: Wanaka Haven (opens in a new tab)

  5. Day 5

    Fox Glacier

    Leave the dry Otago region and travel via the Haast Pass to the lush rainforest of the Westcoast Region (about 4 hours). From Haast to Jackson Bay, there are empty shingle beaches, lakes and wetlands. Consider doing the Waiatoto River Jet Boating Safari to explore the local wilderness rivers. Do the Lake Matheson loop Walk (about 1 hour) or the glacier face walk in the Fox Glacier valley.

    Stay: Distinction Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel

  6. Day 6

    Greymouth

    The heli-hiking trip up the Fox Glacier is one of those 'unforgettable' honeymoon experiences. Join this trip in the morning (takes about 3 hours). Leave Fox Glacier after lunch and travel north with exciting stops on the way. Time-permitting, visit the White Heron colony near Whataroa Stop for a break in Hokitika, famous for New Zealand Pounamu (Jade). Stay in a beachfront B&B lodge outside Greymouth which overlooks the beautiful Tasman Sea!

  7. Day 7

    Abel Tasman National Park

    The Great Coast Road as one of the Top 10 Coastal Drives in the world! Drive alongside the ancient limestone cliffs of Paparoa National Park. Go underground rafting at Charleston, caving at Fox River and visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki. Stop at Cape Foulwind (with a short walk to the seal colony), before you travel inland along the mighty Buller River. Arrive in the beautiful Abel Tasman region in the late afternoon.

    Stay: Kina Beach Vineyard (opens in a new tab)

    • HighlightPaparoa
  8. Day 8

    Abel Tasman National Park

    After all the driving its time to get active again! Join a guided kayaking day tour into the Abel Tasman National Park. A self-guided walk is included, if you wish. The Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its golden beaches, stunning landscape, good food and wine. It is the perfect place to complete your last few days of your South Island honeymoon itinerary.

    Stay: Kina Beach Vineyard (opens in a new tab)

  9. Day 9

    Abel Tasman National Park

    Having another day in the region is a great way to relax before heading back home. Do some beach walks or rent a bicycle to experience local food and wine. Or just simply enjoy your South Island honeymoon retreat for a bit longer. Naturally there are plenty of other tours to join as well!

    Stay: Kina Beach Vineyard (opens in a new tab)

  10. Day 10

    Tasman

    Take a domestic flight from Nelson to Auckland and connect with your international flight in the afternoon/ evening.

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