Want to get away with your beloved? Like, really, really away – away from it all? We’ve got you covered. Pack your matching robes and dust off the “do not disturb” sign, ‘cause we’ve got 10 of NZ’s most romantic (and secluded) escapes.
1. 970 Lonely Bay Lodge
Coromandel
Go luxe for love with this lovely lodge. Although you’ll hardly be lonely cosying up with your loved one here, you’ll have plenty of space to yourselves, especially if you splurge for The Barn – a self-contained ‘suite’ that’s bigger than most of squashy city apartments. Bard (and nature) fans are in luck, ’cause you’ll also be close to Shakespeare Cliff; a super picturesque lookout spot that peers down onto atmospheric Cooks Bay below.
2. The Beach House
Kawau Island
Pack a bag for an epic road trip and ferry ride to secluded Kawau Island. Or, dial up your romance and fly in. Like its name suggests, you’ll be beachfront on white sand but this is more than the average beach stay: think super king beds and a oh-so-swanky bathrooms.
3. Eagles Nest
Russel
Pampering is on the menu at Eagles Nest, an ultra-modern hotel with only five villas on site and a private beach. Although Eagles Nest is the perfect base for exploring the Bay of Islands via horseback (did someone say ‘storybook romance’?) each room does come with its own Jacuzzi, so staying in isn’t such a bad idea either.
4. The Peppertree Luxury Accommodation
Blenheim
Fans of history-tinged romance will adore Peppertree. The 1900s building is nestled in a vineyard, complete with an olive grove and wisteria-fringed verandahs. Its location close to the famed Marlborough region wineries means you can spend the day tasting, only to return for a leisurely game of petanque or lawn croquet. How civilised!
5. Resurgence Luxury Eco Lodge
Riwaka
An adults-only eco oasis set among wilderness and surrounded by national parks? Count us in! National Geographic Traveller Magazine voted Resurgence one of the best eco-lodges in THE WORLD. And did we mention there’s a hot tub?
6. Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa
Gibbston
Each lodge at Gibbston is a little patch of heaven with its own private deck for you and your sweetheart. You can take in the view of the organic vineyard while you gorge on breakfast – sparkling wine included. Gibbston is also a hub for bike hire, and ride-and-wine tours through Queenstown, if you’re at all tempted to venture out.
7. Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses
Hapuku
Look out over the canopy at the surrounding deer park from your magical (yet modern) treehouse hotel on the Canterbury coast. The in-room wood heater makes things extra cosy but you also have an enormous spa bath and your own slippers waiting for you in your room. Fancy!
8. Helena Bay Lodge
Northland
Private beaches and waterside views really bring the romance to this secluded spot in Helena Bay. Couples who spa together, stay together – which is great because there’s a sauna, steam room, and spa all at the lodge.
9. Bay of Many Coves Resort
Queen Charlotte Sound
The ultimate secluded getaway awaits at Bay of Many Coves. There are only 11 suites, which can only be accessed by water taxi – there are no roads in or out – guaranteeing pure privacy! Plus there’s a secret waterfall nearby, perfect for sharing an intimate moment that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Foodies will be pleased too: there’s a top quality restaurant on-site for romantic dinners. And to top it all off, it’s a (mostly) kid-free zone, as children under 14 are not permitted.
10. Poronui
Taharau
Take the road less travelled – quite literally – by meandering down the dirt road to Poronui, a sprawling property sitting on 6,000 acres of farm and forest in the Taharau Valley. With no neighbours for miles, you can revel in your seclusion in a cabin that’s practically built for romance. With a cosy fireplace and a spa bath, love is sure to be in the crisp, country air.
Heads up! Due to COVID-19, government restrictions are in constant review and travel guidelines may change. We strongly recommend that all travellers seek further information about destinations and attractions before scheduling trips or making bookings, take extra care and follow all rules.
