| |

Romantic Getaways South Island New Zealand

Picture this: you and your loved one, surrounded by stunning landscapes, sharing intimate moments in nature’s embrace. Welcome to the fantasy world of romantic getaways South Island New Zealand. With its majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and picturesque vineyards, the South Island offers alluring destinations for couples seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and ignite the flames of romance. Keep reading as we unveil a few of the most romantic getaways on the South Island. 

Mountain & Sea view at MIlford Sound
Romantic getaway at South Island’s Milford Sound

*New Zealand South Island is reader-supported. This post may contain sponsored content and affiliate links (meaning we may get a small commission if you purchase through our links.) You won’t pay any more if you use these links, and it helps support the site. We Thank You.

Serenity Amidst the Fiordland Majesty

Bowen Falls waterfall surrounded by green water and lush bush as seen from the boat cruise in Milford Sound
Bowen Falls waterfall as seen from the boat cruise in Milford Sound

The Fiordland region would have to be one of the most romantic getaways in New Zealand. A place of unparalleled beauty and serenity, Fiordland’s rugged landscapes, adorned with cascading waterfalls and tranquil lakes, provide the perfect backdrop for an intimate escape. 

Imagine cruising together through the world-renowned Milford Sound as the mist from the waterfalls gently caresses your faces. As you stand in awe of Mitre Peak, the tallest sea cliff in the world, you’ll feel the magical moment enveloping you both.

However, when it comes to extra romantic getaways, South Island is the place to take to the skies. Envision a scenic flight across the Southern Alps before you get to the Milford Sound cruise. If you want the ultimate in romance, this gets our vote!

Romantic Getaways South Island NZ- Romance Among the Vineyards

A vineyard in Marlborough, NZ

For wine-loving couples, a visit to the vineyards of Marlborough is an absolute must. Actually, we have about 20 South Island wineries on our bucket list, such as Mt. Difficulty Winery and Carrick Winery. 

Not only do many of them offer unparalleled vineyard views and wine, but they also boast world-class restaurants serving New Zealand delicacies.

One of our favourite areas in New Zealand, Marlborough, is a renowned wine region offering world-class Sauvignon Blanc in an idyllic setting for a romantic escapade. 

With the rows of grapevines stretching to the horizon, you can savour each other’s company over a delectable picnic and a bottle of exquisite wine.

For other romantic getaways NZ South Island ideas, check out our story, Romantic things to do in Akaroa, New Zealand.

Romantic Getaways South Island at Mount Cook

Lake and mountain view
Exploring Tasman Glacier and Lake by boat was one of the most fun adventures we’ve had in NZ.

Venturing further, another of our favourite romantic destinations in the South Island is Mount Cook/Aoraki, the highest peak in New Zealand, where romance reaches new heights. 

Adorned by snow and ice, this majestic mountain invites you to embark on unforgettable adventures together. 

A leisurely hike along Hooker Valley Track allows you to bask in each other’s company while marvelling at the azure glacial lakes and awe-inspiring alpine vistas. 

For added adventure, you can take an alpine ski plane above the majestic mountains, or you can cruise on a jetboat across the glacial water of Lake Tasman. 

Mount Cook is a remote mountain escape offering romance and adventure wrapped up in glamour!

READ NEXT:
10 Best South Island Weekend Getaways from Christchurch.
The 9 Best South Island Beaches for Summer Fun.

Unwinding in Queenstown – Romantic Getaway South Island

Bright blue water surrounded by lush mountains with the TSS Earnslaw steam ship going past.
Photography by Sue (Visitor addicted to Queenstown)

Speaking of glamour, no romantic getaway on the South Island would be complete without a visit to the charming town of Queenstown. 

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown exudes an enchanting ambience. 

You can take a stroll along the waterfront, hand in hand, and steal a kiss or two while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and gold.

But, the thing we love most about Queenstown as a couple is the romantic accommodation on the waterfront. Queenstown offers romantic accommodation South Island getaways with options such as 4 & 5-star resorts with water views or private apartments on the waterfront. No one would blame you if you spent your days on the balcony with wine and a cheese platter, watching the colours of the lake change during the day. 

A Tranquil Couples Retreat in Lake Tekapo, South Island

View of Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd

We often find ourselves on the tranquil shores of Lake Tekapo, a destination that seems tailor-made for romantic getaways South Island. Sometimes we are on a road trip and decide to make an impromptu detour to stop there for a night.

The Church of the Good Shepherd, with its charming stone exterior and breathtaking views, makes for an ideal spot for a heartfelt exchange of vows or promises during romantic getaways South Island. The iconic church has become a popular spot for wedding photography, whether magazine photo shots or brides bringing their wedding dress just to have photos taken there.

Additionally, Lake Tekapo offers unparalleled sky views during romantic getaways South Island. The dark sky reserve area allows you to see the unfiltered sky. Nothing is more romantic than that.

The Delights of Dunedin

The worlds steepest street in Dunedin with white timber houses lining the street, a few parked cars, and people in the distance walking up the street.
Dunedin is home to Baldwin St – the Guinness World Records “World’s steepest street”. ©Steph Photography

Dunedin, with its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene, offers a delightful blend of culture and romance during romantic getaways on the South Island.

You can take a stroll through the city’s Victorian-style gardens, such as the Dunedin Botanic Garden, and savour the opportunity to slow down and revel in each other’s company.

In the evenings, you can indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants.

Exploring the Catlins’ Hidden Gems

Waterfall falling into pool surrounded by lush bush in The Catlins, New Zealand
Purakaunui Falls, one of the best South Island waterfalls is just a short walk from the carpark.

For those who love escaping from the masses, venturing to the southeastern corner of the South Island will allow you to discover the hidden gems of the South Island during South Island romantic getaways. 

This unspoiled paradise boasts rugged coastlines, majestic waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife, making it an idyllic destination for romantic getaways on South Island. There is even a good chance to spot wildlife such as yellow-eyed penguins.

Rejuvenation at Thermal Springs – the Perfect Couples Retreat South Island NZ 

Mountain and hot spring view
New Zealand South Island Bucket List alert for Maruia Hot Springs.

The most romantic thing of all is a journey to one of the South Island thermal areas to luxuriate in the hot waters. 

We find hot pools on the South Island, such as Tekapo Springs, Maruia Springs, Hanmer Springs or Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa, offer an opportunity for us to spend unrivalled time together.

After days of exploration and adventure in the Hanmer Springs region, immerse yourselves in the healing waters of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. The private rooms offer a spa, sauna and private hot pool, and you can book a package with a massage.

Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa takes it a step further with its adults-only pools, which include a swim-up bar and solar tubs with majestic mountain views. Their spa menu includes facials, massages and steam rooms.

A romantic getaway on New Zealand’s South Island promises to be an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking fiords and towering mountains to the serene lakes and charming towns, each destination offers a unique opportunity to create cherished memories with your significant other. So, if you’re seeking a place to kindle or rekindle the flames of romance, look no further than the mesmerizing South Island.

Here are a few of our personal favourites at Get Your Guide, carefully curated to add a touch of romance to your romantic getaways South Island experience. But please don’t hesitate to explore and add your own area in their search and discover the plethora of romantic offerings.

Need More South Island Romantic Getaways?

So, we actually wanted to keep this romantic gem to ourselves, but we can’t resist sharing it with you.

You may have heard about the hustle and bustle of the cruise ships in Akaroa, but if you check cruise ship arrival times and plan a South Island romantic getaway at other times, you will find Akaroa is a blissful paradise.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *