The Ultimate Itinerary: 14 Days in New Zealand
Discover the ultimate 14-day New Zealand escape, where sweeping landscapes and exceptional experiences set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Begin in the cosmopolitan heart of Auckland, before venturing south to Queenstown, where the mountains and lakes provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and romance. In the iconic wine region of Napier, indulge in world-class vintages, then unwind in Rotorua’s geothermal hot springs for the ultimate in relaxation. Your journey culminates on the sun-drenched shores of Waiheke Island, where secluded beaches, private vineyards, and fine dining offer the perfect close to this luxurious itinerary through one of the world’s most stunning destinations.
Day 1: The Journey Begins
Your New Zealand honeymoon begins with a warm welcome at Auckland International Airport, where your private transfer awaits to escort you to your first destination. Sit back, relax, and soak in the first glimpses of this breathtaking country during your 45-minute journey into the city.
Check into the Park Hyatt Auckland, a glittering waterfront retreat perched along the Viaduct Harbour. Here, modern elegance dances with the vibrant spirit of Auckland - think sunlit suites with sweeping harbour views, tranquil spa treatments to unwind from your travels, and an inviting outdoor pool perfect for a stolen moment or two. Every detail whispers of romance, refinement, and a promise of unforgettable days ahead.
Spend the afternoon hand-in-hand, wandering through Auckland’s charming neighborhoods, discovering hidden boutiques, and savoring long, lingering meals at the city's acclaimed restaurants. Let the rhythm of Auckland set a gentle, exciting tone for the adventure to come.
Day 2: To the Heart of Adventure and Romance
After a leisurely morning, board your flight from Auckland to Queenstown , soaring south toward New Zealand’s magnificent Southern Alps. Upon arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to carry you into the heart of Queenstown - a place where untamed beauty and modern luxury intertwine.
Your sanctuary for the next few nights is the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel, an intimate hideaway nestled amid tranquil parklands. Here, contemporary design meets romantic seclusion. Each of the 19 chic rooms and suites offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, along with elegant touches like private kitchenettes and spa-like bathrooms - all crafted for moments of quiet connection. It's a peaceful counterpoint to Queenstown’s vibrant energy, yet just a short stroll from the lively cafés, shops, and wine bars of the town centre.
This afternoon, dive headfirst into Queenstown and its legendary spirit. Known as the "Adventure Capital of the World," the city tempts you with a thrilling array of experiences - from white-knuckle bungee jumps and luge rides to scenic lake cruises and serene nature excursions. Whether you crave a burst of adrenaline or a day soaking in the stunning landscapes, Queenstown offers it all in breathtaking style.
As evening falls, indulge in Queenstown’s dynamic culinary scene, where world-class chefs craft unforgettable meals - the perfect way to toast to the start of your southern adventure together.
Day 3: A Journey to the Edge of the World
Your adventure begins with a private transfer to Queenstown Airport, where the magic of Fiordland awaits. Buckle in for an unforgettable flight by fixed-wing aircraft, soaring over a dreamscape of hanging valleys, shimmering alpine lakes, and rugged peaks that seem to pierce the sky itself.
Touch down at the iconic Milford Sound, a place so spectacular it’s often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Here, you’ll board a specially designed vessel for an intimate cruise through the dramatic fiord. Towering waterfalls spill from ancient cliffs, mist swirls around the mile-high monolith of Mitre Peak, and playful dolphins and seals often make enchanting appearances. It's a cinematic backdrop for romance - nature at its most raw and breathtaking.
Later this afternoon, take to the skies once more for a return flight over the icy glaciers and wild, untouched beauty of Fiordland National Park - a final gift from the heavens (weather permitting) before touching back down in Queenstown.
After your awe-inspiring day, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, where you can unwind, reflect, and raise a glass to one of the most extraordinary experiences of your honeymoon.
Continue the magic into the evening with a night curated for romance - a private lakeside dinner at Botswana Butchery, one of Queenstown’s most celebrated restaurants. If the evening is clear, request a table on the terrace where you can watch the sun slip behind the mountains, casting golden light across Lake Wakatipu. Or if you prefer a quieter end to your day, take a sunset stroll through the Queenstown Gardens, a tranquil oasis right on the lake’s edge. Afterwards, slip into the cozy glow of The Lodge Bar, where plush leather chairs and a crackling fire invite you to linger over a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir or a handcrafted cocktail, savouring the final notes of an extraordinary day.
Day 4: Into the Wild
This morning, set off for an adventure into New Zealand’s raw, untouched wilderness. Make your way to central Queenstown, where you’ll meet your driver and join a small group bound for Glenorchy - a breathtaking journey that traces the shimmering shores of Lake Wakatipu for about 45 minutes, with each turn offering vistas more astonishing than the last.
Upon arrival in Glenorchy, the gateway to the famed Mt Aspiring National Park, your adventure begins. Climb aboard a sleek jet boat and race along the crystal-clear waters of the Dart River, cutting through ancient forests, misty valleys, and soaring mountain landscapes. The thrill of the ride, combined with the majesty of your surroundings, makes for a heart-pounding, unforgettable start to your day.
After the exhilaration, the pace slows as you transition to a more intimate encounter with the wilderness. Settle into your Funyak, a three-seater inflatable canoe, and drift gently back downriver. Paddling at your own pace, you’ll explore secret side streams, hidden rock pools, and dramatic chasms that feel like they belong in another world. Along the way, pause for a leisurely picnic lunch amidst the pristine scenery, a private moment surrounded by nothing but the sound of the river and the sweep of the Southern Alps.
Back at your hotel, indulge in some well-earned relaxation with a couples' massage at the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel’s spa service, soothing tired muscles and rekindling your post-adventure glow. Choose a bespoke treatment designed to melt away the day’s exertions and leave you feeling completely renewed.
This evening, stay close to home and enjoy a quiet, romantic dinner at the hotel’s intimate dining lounge. With a menu inspired by the region’s finest seasonal produce and paired with celebrated local wines, it’s the perfect, effortless end to a day defined by exploration, wonder, and each other.
Day 5: Serenity Above the River
Today is yours to slow down, exhale, and simply soak in the magic of Queenstown - quite literally.
Make your way just ten minutes from town to Onsen Hot Pools, a hidden sanctuary perched high on the cliffs overlooking the spectacular Shotover River. Once a bustling gold mining outpost, this tranquil haven is now an invitation to pure relaxation. Here, tucked within one of fourteen cedar-lined hot tubs or a new private oval tub designed for couples, you’ll enjoy a deeply restorative soak while gazing out across snow-capped peaks and the wild river far below.
The experience is bespoke and deeply personal - a quiet pause in your honeymoon where nothing exists beyond the warm water, the fresh alpine air, and each other. For those seeking an even deeper retreat, Onsen's serene day spa offers a menu of luxurious treatments, from hydrating facials to tension-melting massages, crafted by some of the region’s finest therapists.
After your rejuvenating afternoon, continue your day of indulgence with dinner at Rātā, one of Queenstown’s culinary gems. Helmed by internationally renowned chef Josh Emett, Rātā celebrates the flavors of New Zealand with creative, elegant dishes set in a warm, stylish atmosphere. Toast to your love story over local lamb, South Island seafood, and exceptional Central Otago wines — the perfect way to savor the relaxed, blissful rhythm you've found together.
Day 6: From Queenstown’s Peaks to Napier’s Seaside Glamour
This morning, after a final leisurely breakfast in Queenstown, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains and lakes that have been your backdrop for adventure. Your private driver will meet you at the hotel and escort you to Queenstown Airport for your flight north to Napier - where a new kind of romance awaits.
Upon arrival, check in at the elegant Art Deco Masonic Hotel, an iconic treasure in the heart of New Zealand’s Art Deco capital. A meticulous tribute to the golden age of travel, this boutique hotel perfectly marries 1930s glamour with contemporary comfort. Elegant period details, plush furnishings, and the vibrant, award-winning Emporium Eatery & Bar create an atmosphere that's as stylish as it is inviting. Step onto your private balcony (in select rooms) to glimpse the sparkling waterfront just beyond, and feel transported to another era, where every moment feels timeless.
The afternoon is yours to explore Napier, a seaside city where history and modern vibrancy live side by side. Wander sun-drenched streets lined with pastel-hued Art Deco, Spanish Mission, and Stripped Classical architecture - a living gallery born from the city's remarkable 1931 rebirth. With a temperate Mediterranean climate, a thriving café and dining scene, and world-renowned Hawke’s Bay wineries nearby, Napier invites you to savor life at an irresistible, unhurried pace.
Perhaps rent bicycles and set out on the Hawke’s Bay Trails, meandering along the coast and through lush vineyards, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the palm-fringed Marine Parade, stopping for gelato or a glass of local Sauvignon Blanc.
As evening falls, Napier’s culinary scene beckons. For a memorable night, dine at Pacifica, a relaxed yet sophisticated restaurant tucked inside a blue weatherboard house just steps from the sea. Chef Jeremy Rameka’s inventive, ever-changing tasting menu celebrates the region’s finest produce and seafood with a spirit of creativity and love - an ideal reflection of your honeymoon journey so far.
Honeymoon Tip:
For a deeper connection to Napier’s glamorous past, book a private Art Deco walking tour. Strolling hand-in-hand through the city's exquisite architecture with a guide brings the 1930s back to life — a charming way to experience Napier’s story together.
Day 7: Vineyards and Vistas
Today brings an indulgent adventure that perfectly blends the pleasures of the palate with the beauty of the landscape. After breakfast, your private guide will meet you at your hotel for a half-day exploration of Hawke’s Bay’s famed wine country - not by car, but by e-bike, allowing you to savour every sight, scent, and taste at a leisurely, romantic pace.
With the sun warming your shoulders and a soft breeze at your back, you'll set off on the Hawke’s Bay Trails - Heretaunga Ararau - a network of limesand pathways that are smooth, wide, and mostly flat, making them an effortless joy to navigate. Your route winds through a dreamscape of vineyards, olive groves, apple orchards, and farmland, framed by a sparkling coastline and the gentle rhythm of the Tuki Tuki River.
As you pedal, your guide - a passionate local storyteller - will weave tales of Hawke’s Bay’s winemaking heritage, its Māori history, and the Mediterranean spirit that defines the region’s relaxed, sun-drenched way of life.
Along the way, you’ll pause for private tastings at two of the area’s premier wineries, where you can sample elegant Chardonnays, rich Syrahs, and artisanal local delicacies. Whether you’re sipping wine in a shaded courtyard or overlooking rolling vines that stretch to the sea, the experience feels intimate, celebratory, and wholly New Zealand.
After completing the gentle 16-kilometre journey, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, rosy-cheeked and glowing from a morning spent savoring life’s finest things.
This evening, continue the celebration of Hawke’s Bay’s culinary excellence with dinner at Mister D, a stylish and playful bistro in downtown Napier. Known for its seasonal menus and famous house-made donuts (with injectable syringes of chocolate, jam, or custard - yes, really), Mister D offers a lively, delicious way to toast another unforgettable day of your honeymoon adventure.
Handpicked Hint: For an extra special experience, request a private tasting table at one of the wineries — many offer secluded garden settings where you can sip and savor in blissful privacy, toasting to the sweetest chapters still ahead.
Day 8: Into the Heart of Nature
Today, your honeymoon journey carries you inland, trading the Art Deco glamour of Napier for the mystical landscapes of Rotorua. After checking out from the Art Deco Masonic Hotel, take to the open road, following a scenic route through rolling farmland, lush forests, and sleepy rural towns - a drive that feels like a quiet meditation between two vibrant worlds.
Upon arrival, check in at the secluded and spectacular Solitaire Lodge, one of New Zealand’s original luxury lodges, cradled on the tranquil shores of Lake Tarawera. Here, nature takes center stage: each spacious suite offers sweeping, uninterrupted views of the lake’s mirror-like waters and the misty volcanic peaks beyond. Thoughtful details - from deep soaking tubs to private balconies - create an atmosphere of total, cocooned luxury.
The afternoon is yours to spend exactly as you wish. Embrace the slower rhythm by taking a kayak out onto the glassy lake, fishing from the jetty, or simply relaxing on your private terrace, champagne in hand, as the sun sinks over the water. If you’re craving adventure, Solitaire Lodge can arrange hikes through the surrounding native bush, or a boat ride to the natural thermal springs hidden along the lake’s edge - a sublime place to soak, far from the world.
Later, explore the fascinating cultural and geothermal wonders of Rotorua itself. Known as New Zealand’s “thermal wonderland,” Rotorua bubbles and steams with otherworldly geysers, mud pools, and mineral-rich hot springs. Whether you’re visiting a traditional Māori village, unwinding in a world-class spa, or simply breathing in the scent of sulphur rising from the earth, the energy here feels ancient, raw, and profoundly alive.
For dinner, you need not wander far. Solitaire Lodge’s own dining experience is a highlight unto itself - an intimate, five-course dégustation featuring the best local produce, perfectly paired with boutique New Zealand wines. Seated by candlelight, overlooking the lake under a star-strewn sky, it’s the perfect setting to savor both the flavors of the land and the incredible journey you’re sharing together.
Handpicked Hint: Ask the lodge to arrange a boat ride to Hot Water Beach on Lake Tarawera, where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the warm sands and soak together in total seclusion - a private paradise made by nature itself.
Day 9: A Morning of Mist and Magic
Rise early today for one of the most intimate, soul-stirring moments of your honeymoon. Before breakfast, you'll be whisked across the still waters of Lake Tarawera on a private 15-minute launch, headed toward one of the area’s most secret treasures: its natural hot springs. Here, where the thermal waters rise silently through the lakebed, you can slip into the warm, mineral-rich shallows and soak as the first rays of morning light filter through the ancient native bush. It’s a rare, almost sacred experience - the world hushed, the lake steaming gently around you, and nothing but the soft songs of birds to accompany your private moment of bliss.
After a leisurely breakfast back at Solitaire Lodge, the day continues with a short drive into Rotorua to explore the enchanting Redwoods Treewalk. Suspended between soaring Californian Redwoods - some over 120 years old this 700-metre network of gently swaying bridges offers a bird’s-eye perspective on the serene forest below. The walkway gradually ascends from 6 to 20 metres above the forest floor, and the dappled sunlight, earthy scents, and quiet majesty of the Redwoods make this a walk unlike any other - both breathtaking and grounding.
After your day immersed in Rotorua’s natural wonders, celebrate the evening with a truly unforgettable dining experience at Pātaka Kai Restaurant & Bar. Drawing inspiration from New Zealand’s lush forests and rich culinary traditions, Pātaka Kai offers an elegant yet relaxed setting where local produce takes centre stage. Think fresh seafood, tender lamb, artisan cheeses, and native herbs - all plated with artistry and paired with boutique New Zealand wines. Request a table by the window or, if the weather allows, dine outdoors under the stars, with the misty glow of nearby geothermal steam rising into the night sky. It’s a sensory experience that captures the wild romance of Rotorua itself.
Day 10: A Journey Through New Worlds
After breakfast, the adventure continues with a short, scenic drive to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley - the youngest geothermal system in the world and a landscape of living, breathing earth.
Here, you'll embark on a self-guided walk and boat cruise, giving you the freedom to explore at your own romantic pace. Stroll past steaming cliffs, technicolor silica terraces, and thermal streams that seem plucked from another planet. Marvel at the mysterious beauty of Frying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot-water spring, and the mesmerizing Inferno Crater, whose vivid blue waters are constantly shifting in a delicate, natural dance.
As you walk, the sounds of bubbling waters and whispering steam create a dreamlike backdrop, making it easy to imagine you’re discovering a hidden world together for the very first time. Complete your exploration with a tranquil cruise across Lake Rotomahana, where the reflections of the sky and hills ripple like brushstrokes on a painting.
After your visit, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure - perhaps retreating back to Solitaire Lodge for one last lakeside soak, a couple’s massage, or simply a quiet moment watching the sunset blaze across the volcanic skyline.
For your last night in Rotorua, treat yourselves to a truly distinctive culinary experience at Mokoia Restaurant, hidden inside the tranquil Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort. Known for its inventive use of indigenous New Zealand ingredients and traditional Māori cooking techniques, Mokoia crafts a sensory experience that is as intimate as it is unforgettable.
Handpicked Hint: Book a private dining experience on the lakeside deck - Mokoia offers private spaces for a truly secluded evening under the stars.
Day 11: From Middle-Earth Magic to Island Bliss
This morning, leave the serenity of Solitaire Lodge behind and make your way north toward the rolling green hills of Matamata, where a world of fantasy and wonder awaits. Here, you’ll step straight into the lush pastures of the Shire with a shared guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set - an enchanting experience where reality and imagination merge beneath the shadow of the mighty Kaimai Ranges.
Wander among the storybook Hobbit Holes, cross the double-arched stone bridge, and linger by The Mill as your guide shares insider tales of Sir Peter Jackson’s cinematic vision. The set, lovingly restored to its original glory, is a living postcard of Middle-Earth’s gentle charm. Your journey concludes with a pint or a cider at the famed Green Dragon Inn, where you’ll toast to the magic of a place that feels suspended in time.
After your Middle-Earth adventure, make your way to Auckland’s Ferry Terminal and board the Fullers passenger ferry bound for Waiheke Island. As the city skyline fades into the distance, the horizon opens into a tableau of golden beaches, rolling vineyards, and lush native forests - your private island escape awaits.
Upon arrival at Matiatia Wharf, a representative from The Boatshed will be waiting to whisk you away on a short scenic drive to your new home for the next few days. Checking into The Boatshed feels like being welcomed into a secret sanctuary, where barefoot luxury and effortless style reign supreme. Perched above the bay, this boutique retreat offers sun-drenched suites and bungalows, each dressed in soft linens, coastal hues, and a breezy, open-air spirit. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the gardens, savouring the views, or wandering down to the beach, where the rhythm of island life invites you to simply breathe and be.
Tonight, celebrate your arrival on Waiheke with a truly unforgettable evening at Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, one of Waiheke’s most romantic dining experiences - a magical setting where manicured gardens tumble into the vines and sweeping views stretch across to Auckland’s twinkling skyline. While the main restaurant is beautiful on its own, opt for an extra-special honeymoon moment and book a private dining experience nestled within the vineyard’s grounds. Surrounded by fragrant lavender, olive trees, and lush vines, you’ll dine under the stars with only candlelight and the gentle sounds of nature for company. Mudbrick’s menu is a love letter to local produce, where every course is crafted with heart, paired perfectly with Mudbrick’s own celebrated wines.
Handpicked Hint: Arrange a sunset wine tasting before dinner or a special wine-paired degustation menu — it’s an incredibly luxurious way to savor your final nights in New Zealand.
Day 12: A Day of Island Indulgence
This morning, your private guide and driver will meet you at The Boatshed to begin a deliciously indulgent exploration of Waiheke’s famed food and wine scene. With a passionate local expert leading the way - someone who knows the island’s hidden corners, history, and vintners by heart - you’ll journey into the island’s lush landscapes to sample its most celebrated flavours.
Savor oysters plucked fresh from Te Matuku Bay, award-winning olive oils, and artisanal treasures like wild honey, creamy local cheeses, and the island’s famous green herb spread. Between tastings, you’ll visit boutique vineyards, each offering a unique expression of Waiheke’s terroir through their handcrafted wines.
Midday, settle in for a leisurely lunch at one of Waiheke’s top vineyard restaurants, where farm-to-table menus showcase the island’s bounty alongside panoramic vineyard and sea views - an unforgettable setting for a lingering meal.
If time allows after lunch, stroll through the charming village of Oneroa, browsing boutique shops and art galleries, or take a gentle walk along the sun-dappled beach.
Later this afternoon, you’ll be returned to your accommodation, and as the sun sets over Little Oneroa Beach, there may be no better place to dine than right where you are - The Boatshed’s intimate dining room. With its cozy, elegant atmosphere and sweeping sea views, it feels like a private island hideaway designed just for two. The Boatshed’s kitchen celebrates the island’s best seasonal produce, much of it harvested from their own gardens or sourced from local artisans. Expect a beautiful, ever-changing menu featuring dishes like roasted kingfish with native herbs, slow-cooked lamb with garden vegetables, and decadent desserts infused with Waiheke’s natural flavors - all perfectly paired with boutique New Zealand wines.
Day 13: A Day to Drift and Dream
Spend your last full day at leisure, soaking up the magic of Waiheke Island at your own pace. Whether you feel like diving into adventure or simply savouring the slow rhythms of island life, Waiheke offers endless ways to celebrate your final chapter in New Zealand.
If you’re seeking a beach day, stretch out under the sun on the soft sands of Onetangi or Palm Beach, or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. For those craving a dose of adrenaline, consider soaring above native forest and vineyard canopies with an eco-ziplining experience, or venture underground to explore the historic World War II tunnels at Stony Batter.
Art lovers will find themselves enchanted by the island’s creative pulse - wander Oneroa’s charming galleries, or immerse yourself in the stunning Connells Bay Sculpture Park, where monumental works are tucked into native bush and coastal landscapes. Foodies might savour an oyster and olive oil tasting, visit local whisky distilleries and craft breweries, or indulge in a guided gourmet tour.
For something more active, explore the island’s vast network of hiking trails, mountain biking tracks, or even horseback riding adventures. Out on the water, try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or charter a private yacht for a final afternoon of sparkling sea views.
For your last evening in New Zealand, toast to love and new beginnings with a celebratory dinner at Poderi Crisci, one of Waiheke’s most beloved and atmospheric dining experiences. Set among gently rolling vineyards and olive groves, this family-owned estate feels like a little slice of Tuscany tucked into the island's sun-drenched hills. You'll dine under a canopy of grapevines, at a table laden with hand-crafted dishes: house-made pasta, heirloom tomatoes bursting with flavour, woodfired meats, and delicate desserts kissed with seasonal fruits. Every plate sings of the land and the seasons, lovingly paired with Poderi Crisci’s own exquisite wines.
Honeymoon Tip: For an especially romantic touch, time your dinner to coincide with sunset, when the vines glow gold and the air turns silky with the scent of lavender and rosemary. It’s the perfect place to linger, laugh, and savour one last, unforgettable evening together - a fitting finale to a journey as breathtaking as the landscapes you've wandered through.
Day 14: Farewell
Wake slowly to the gentle hush of the waves and the golden light filtering through The Boatshed’s breezy windows - a final memory of Waiheke’s timeless charm. Savour a leisurely breakfast on the verandah, perhaps a platter of seasonal fruits, house-baked pastries, and just-brewed coffee, as you drink in one last sweeping view of the bay.
Depending on your departure time, you may wish to take a final stroll along Little Oneroa Beach, breathe in the crisp sea air, or tuck a few more moments of serenity into your pocket for the journey ahead.
Later, you will be transferred from The Boatshed to Matiatia Wharf, where the ferry will carry you back across the glistening waters to Auckland - a gentle crossing that feels like a farewell kiss from New Zealand itself. As you step onto the mainland and onwards to your journey home, you’ll take with you more than souvenirs: a collection of extraordinary memories, moments of wild beauty, and a love story forever woven into the fabric of Aotearoa.
