New Zealand honeymoon destinations for a scenic start to married life

For those who love old-world charm, The Martinborough Hotel is the ideal relaxing destination. Nestled in the warm wine country of the Wairarapa, the hotel is a colonial boutique establishment dating back to 1822.

The character of the original building has been preserved by retaining features such as the pressed tin ceilings, high ceiling studs, architraves, original wooden staircase and rimu floors, making this a magical setting to relax with your lover. There are twenty different rooms to choose from, each with its own special character.

If you really want to feel the romance out, step into the light and luxurious Didsbury Suite. A private balcony awaits, the perfect spot to relax and overlook the gardens. It even has a large tiled walk-in shower and a clawfoot tub. In addition to the main rooms in the hotel itself, a second smaller boutique is available to book, named the Petite Hotel. Each individually designed room has a queen-sized bed, marbled tiles, under-floor heating, and clawfoot baths with shower. Our pick is the Provence room, decorated with lavender shades for its French-country charm.

If you can prise yourself away from this beautiful hotel, feel free to wander around the unique wine village, go tasting at award-winning vineyards close by, such as Palliser Estate or Poppies Vineyard, dine at commended local eateries such as Pinocchio. It’s signature dish is the heavenly confit duck leg, parsnip purée, kumara gratin, cherry, orange jus and spinach. Or, if you do just want to stay in bed, order room service from the Martinborough Hotel’s excellent restaurant Union Square. Whatever your desires, The Martinborough Hotel is the perfect location.

In Hawkes Bay, a magical Provence-like avenue lined with trees and situated below the cliffs of Te Mata Peak announces your arrival to Tom’s Cottage. And it only gets better for those in search of a romantic destination. At the foot of this region’s most famous mountain, this cottage made for lovers is situated on an olive grove, with a wraparound deck and an outdoor woodfire bath. You’ll let out a sigh of relief, probably needed after partying hard at your wedding reception.

Inside is a charming mix of antiques, Turkish rugs, seashells and a marshmallow bed that looks out through French doors at Te Mata Peak. Feel free to browse the quirky charming library, cook your own meals in a fully equipped petite kitchen and lounge to your heart’s content, looking out at the beautiful scenery. Tom’s Cottage owners are extremely hospitable and provide you with eggs, bacon, bread and fruit, as well as handy local tips. However, it’s more than likely you’ll just want to be alone to enjoy peace and quiet. This is the definition of a hideaway.

If you feel up to it, you can partake in hang-gliding off the Peak—or maybe you would rather just watch from bed. The sound of cicadas is the only sound you’ll hear as you bask in the sunshine of the Hawkes Bay sun. This sweet, locally-run accommodation is ideal for any romantic honeymoon or mini-moon.

If you’re looking for a quirky and glamorous spot for your honeymoon in New Zealand’s cultural Capital, QT Museum Wellington has it all. The QT Museum is famous for housing the Chris Parkin Art Collection, which showcases some of New Zealand’s best artists around the hotel, popping up in all kinds of unexpected places—such as a bull made from scrap metal in the lobby—but the surprises don’t stop there.

From the internationally acclaimed Hippopotamus Restaurant, with a la carte French-influenced cuisine to the dashing Asian Fusion Hot Sauce, you’ll be spoilt for choice as far as restaurants are concerned. There’s even a rooftop pool and gym, lobby bar and lots of quiet, dark spaces for a sultry drink. But the hotel rooms especially are to die for.

Decorated in a modern luxe style, these spaces are personalised with artwork from different street artists from Wellington. You won’t want to leave the boudoir—but when you do, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that you’re only a stone’s throw away from the National Museum of New Zealand ‘Te Papa’, Circa Theatre, Cuba Street or the Michael Fowler Centre.

For wine lovers, a Marlborough honeymoon is a must-do: and where better to stay than on a vineyard itself? But before settling in – there’s drinking to do! Only a stone’s throw away from internationally-acclaimed wineries such as Cloudy Bay, Framingham and Nautilus, the best way to make the most of your stay in Marlborough is by cycling to different cellar doors and sampling some of the best wine in the world. If it is food you’re after, Highfield Terravin winery is essential eating and has spectacular views over the region from its own tower.

Back at the hotel, your accommodation is set out as private independent suites, more like small houses, with a patio, kitchen, bathtub and comfortable living room. Beyond, a sea of vines spreads into the distance and is lit up like gold at sunset. Settle in, grab a towelling robe, pull your bottle of Sav out and feel the amour.

Auckland is the city of sails, so for a little excitement, why not sail into the Sofitel Auckland for your honeymoon. Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is located in the heart of Auckland, a unique maritime experience between vibrant Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Inspired by New Zealand’s landscape and boasting panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour, this beautifully designed hotel is a true landmark destination. All luxury appointed bedrooms and suites have private Juliet balconies, floor to ceiling windows and feature oversized bathrooms with separate rain showers and deep soaking bathtubs.

When you’re ready to explore, you’re just a short walk from the Britomart precinct and restaurants such as Amano, Ostro and more. If you feel like shopping, designer shops line the South of Queen Street. Complete your Auckland adventure with a sea life safari, fishing charter or thrilling, high-speed jet boat tour, or explore Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium. For the couple that isn’t afraid to hit the ground running, Auckland is your pick.

For a dose of the salty seas of the South Island, Picton Yacht Club is an ideal location. Start out from Wellington and catch the Interislander Ferry over the Cook Strait before mooring in beautiful Picton in the gorgeous Marlborough Sounds.

Located on Picton’s stunning harbour, the hotel is just 500 metres from both the ferry terminal and the train station with direct access to the heart of Picton and the foreshore and marina. Book yourself in for swimming with dolphins, visit the stunning Lochmara Lodge for lunch or simply relax and walk around the local bars and cafes on Dublin Street.

Contemporary and relaxed, the Picton Yacht Club is set around its sizeable swimming pool making it perfect for the couple looking to chill. Select one of the highly exclusive apartments to snuggle up in, and either relax or go for an explore – kayaking, boating and hiking are all on your doorstep. Continental and cooked breakfasts are available and the rooms are comfortable and well priced.