The South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand is also flush with zero population areas, making it sing to your tune of a secluded, relaxed and romantic break.
We will break down for you our top 5 romantic getaways in New Zealand's South Island.
What's the most romantic place to visit?
While this is a fairly subjective topic, it’s also a popular question, so here's our two cents!
Choosing the most romantic place to visit in the South Island, depends on what you want from your romantic getaway.
Getting clear on both of your expectations for your romantic getaway can help you narrow down the most romantic place to visit for YOU! Below, we have 6 excellent suggestions, so take your time to understand what's most important before you book.
How would you spend a perfect romantic weekend?
Here we go through some romantic things to do with your partner, to get you thinking, get you excited and start to rekindle, even before you leave!
Here's our list of the top romantic activities in New Zealand:
How can you make your romantic trip feel as romantic and memorable as possible? (without it being forced)
Our Top 5 Romantic Getaways in the South Island
Starting in the golden top of the South Island and ending in the lush South, here are our fave romantic getaways spots.
Nestled amongst the kānuka trees on Pepin Island, near Nelson, this is about as island-like, cosy and charming as it gets.
How does taking an outdoor bath under the stars, while watching the to-and-fro of the waves in Cable Bay, by moonlight sound? Or waking to the sound of the roaring of the ocean, before your morning beach walk? Amazing. Open the bi-fold doors of the little cabin, out onto the deck and relax while taking in the spectacular panoramic views out into Tasman Bay.
Nearby is the city of Nelson, offering gorgeous beaches where you can relax, sunbathe, swim or even hire a kayak for an afternoon. Nelson also has a wonderful local art scene to discover.
Closer to Pepin Island is Cable Bay's very own adventure park, for something a bit thrilling to get the adrenaline pumping and have some fun! Or, for a stunning way to work off lunch, check out the Cable Bay walkway, with huge, epic vistas, as far as the eye can see.
The peaceful little cabin is fully equipt, just ready and waiting for your arrival.
Canterbury.
Architecturally designed, this is the perfect rural getaway.
If seclusion, privacy and peace were on your must-have list, here is your little pocket of paradise, just waiting for you.
Fire up the BBQ for a classic kiwi dinner, or make a large grazing platter in the well equipt kitchen to slowly enjoy your evening, amongst nature and beside your partner. Put your feet up, as you relax on the deck and take in the ever changing landscape. Watch the sun descend and stars appear in the ultimate sunset and stargazing spot.
By day, check out what this vast and beautiful area has to offer with several walking / hiking tracks close by, one of which is Mount Oxford Track where you can walk into Ryde Falls. There are also the Waimakariri and Ashley Rivers to cool off in after an afternoon of exploring or perhaps a round of golf at the local Waimakariri Golf Course.
Located near Oxford, Canterbury, this home away from home, is eco-friendly, climate positive, protects biodiversity and promotes regenerative practices. So you can feel good knowing your footprint will barely be there.
West Coast.
Wake up together in your seaside cottage to the stunning blue of the ocean, and green of the surrounding, landscaped garden and native bush; the waves crashing and birds singing their morning chorus. This is Beachfront Bliss.
Start the day with one of the hosts cooked breakfasts, and then meander down to the adjoining beach to look for washed up pounamu, also called greenstone or jade. There are little rock pools to search for seafood or just check out the peaceful seaside area.
Nearby, there are cycling and hiking trails, with the West Coast Wilderness Track, and the Paparoa Track, to have some fun and explore nature.
The 'sunset' room is spacious and warm, with a cosy super-king bed and luxurious bedding. 'Sunset' is an authentic kiwi cottage built from Native NZ recycled timbers and beach stones and the comfy lounge is perfectly positioned to make the most of the gorgeous vistas. There is also a large, private ensuite bathroom.
Otago.
Boutique accommodation with panoramic views, in the heart of the wild Catlins. Sold? Us too!
Table Hill Hut is located on a third-generation-owned family farm in the area of Owaka, Otago. The family have lovingly created this 'hut' (blissful cottage) to share with others the magic and beauty of their incredible land, and is absolutely perfect for a romantic getaway.
The hut is nestled into a hill, backing onto native flora, 400m above sea-level. This elevation gives it stunning views, an unreal sunrise and sunset, and where you want to be for both stargazing and the show of the southern lights, also called the aurora australis. The skies here are a haven of activity and wonderment.
Catch all this incredible astronomical activity sitting in the perfectly appointed spa, glass of your favourite beverage in hand and your partner by your side - total heaven.
This little pocket is close to excellent surf beaches, native bush walks including Matai Falls Rail Trail and the nearby waterfall, Matai Falls. You can request a farm tour to check out the day-to-day, modern running of a working station, or maybe golf is your thing? Head to the nearby local golf club. There are also horse-treks to book if you fancy a bit more of a taste of the rural life, or just want to try something new with your partner.
As if it could get any better, it does. You can request a private couple's massage in the hut (oh em gee), and Table Hill Hut is run on 100% solar energy, making it a win for the environment too.
Southland.
Modern, sleek, stylish and set in a UNESCO World Heritage Area. Yes that captured our attention too!
What do you think you'll notice first? The luxurious southern stays 260° panoramic mountain and lake views of Fiordland National Park? Or, maybe will be the private NZ-made spa and heated outdoor shower? Possibly, the incredible stargazing opportunities? No matter what stands out to you first, you don't have to compromise here.
Located just a few kilometres from the township of tranquil Te Anau, this luxury retreat is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. There are so many fun opportunities in nature in this area, to get away from it all and spend some time reconnecting. Try your hand at trout fishing, horse trekking, or rock climbing. Or, take a tour with Real Journeys and cruise to the glow worm caves across the lake!
Spend your evenings stargazing from the hot tub and relaxing together.
No matter what brings you to this secluded corner of the Fiordland National Park, you can rest assured that your stay at this luxury retreat will be one to remember. Enjoy all the activities and nature the area has to offer, make some incredible memories and come away feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Planning time!
Whether you're planning your honeymoon, minimoon, anniversary or just-cause-we-want-to weekend away, we hope you feel inspired, excited and ready to create some memories!
Happy Planning!
Your luxurious, romantic, getaway awaits
The check out more Off The Beaten Track experiences, or to find the perfect getaway, visit us here