5 fresh ideas for an NZ honeymoon
It’s going to take something special to top your big day and few destinations can match the breath-taking views and natural wonders found within the untapped rugged landscape of New Zealand.
Celebrate your honeymoon in style by trying out fun and unforgettable encounters within mesmerising locations that must be seen to be believed. Here are 5 ideas to inspire your newlywed adventure!
1. Romantic scenic helicopter flights
(Credit: Glaciersouthernlakes.co.nz)
To cap a magic day to remember, start your honeymoon adventure by heading for the heights to explore the unspoilt landscape of New Zealand’s glacier tips in style. Helicopter tours fly all-year-round in some of New Zealand’s most impressive spots with specialist packages to suit newlyweds.
Most operators accept bookings of up to six meaning you can invite the wedding party too if you’re looking to share your sky-high experience with friends and family before you enjoy time alone with your loved one.
2. Scale a giant glacier
(Credit: Franzjosefglacier.com)
How’s this for an ice breaker: feel what it’s like to follow in the footsteps of ancient explorers by hiking a gigantic glacier. Experts claim that the world’s most pristine ice caps can be found in the peaks of New Zealand with the likes of Franz Josef offering guided tours full of fun and adventure for couples and small groups.
Taking on a glacier hike with your partner is a true test of character and makes for an experience that offers unparalleled views and photo opportunities high above sea level.
With all the warm and waterproof gear you need provided, the ice-cool temperatures around you will not stand in the way of a great day out.
3. Feel the force of a jet boat ride
(Credit: Shotoverjet.com)
A jet boat ride through the ancient narrow canyons and open riverbanks of New Zealand’s raw backcountry brings high-speed enjoyments and bags of laughs.
If it’s good enough for Michelle Monaghan then it’s worth making the trip over for. As a small group activity, jet boating puts wild post-wedding entertainment in a whole new dimension.
Several main operators in New Zealand run all-year-round tours for jet boat rides – some of which are not for the fain-hearted, so be aware! Agile speed boats manned by expert drivers can reach beyond 85mph on the circuit, whilst performing 360 degrees stunts to make a big splash on your celebratory trip.
And don’t forget to smile for that end-of-show activity photo!
4. Be at one with nature on a guided walk
(Credit: NZwalks.com)
It’s not all high-impact in the remote backcountry of New Zealand as you and your partner will discover when you embark on one of the many nature walk routes open to the public – they say that to find true romance, go back to nature!
Knowledgeable guides turn every step into a story as they lead you on a journey of discovery through the stunning landscape of Queenstown and Fiordland.
From majestic mountains and ice-capped valleys to shimmering lakes and lush rainforest, local New Zealand guides know all the best pathways to introduce you to the thousands of animal and plant species that remain otherwise untouched by mankind.
Popular routes include the Routeburn track, Lakeshore Forest and Hollyford Track, with overnight stays along the way if you prefer: whether it’s exploring snow-covered alpine terrain by snowshoe or tracking rare and endangered animals, each adventure hike offers a unique experience.
5. Get steamed up in a hot pool
(Credit: Glacierhotpools.co.nz)
After getting married and looking to wind down after the celebrations, nothing beats a spot of rejuvenation like cosying up to your partner in a rainforest hot pool.
New Zealand has its fair share of outdoor water holes that can be found in the most unlikely of places – Franz Josef Glacier has one to its name, which is a secluded haven open to the public for most of the year, although it doesn’t appear on all mainstream tourist guides.
To experience a blissful state of pure relaxation after making your way along Te Tai o Poutini, otherwise known as The West Coast, book a hot pool session and then indulge in the onsite spa and massage treatments.
This article was authored by Ngāi Tahu Tourism, based in New Zealand, with the help of guides and tour operators from Franz Josef Glacier Guides, Guided Walks NZ, and Shotover Jet. For more information about ideas for honeymoons and activities in hard-to-find habitats, Ngāi Tahu Tourism can help.
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