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Our picks of some of New Zealand’s top spots to honeymoon illustrate just how spoiled for choice we are with romantic and luxurious accommodation in our own backyard. First, choose your setting – from jaw-dropping views and idyllic country settings to tropical paradises and untouched nature. From there, all you really have to do is relax, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.
PARK HYATT, AUCKLAND
Perfectly located on the water’s edge and will offer expansive views across Wynyard Quarter’s Lighter Basin and out to the Waitemata- Harbour, the Park Hyatt offers everything you could desire from an inner-city Auckland getaway, including a choice of rooms and suites all with balconies, floor to ceiling windows and marble bathrooms, four restaurants and bars, outdoor sky terrace, day spa, 25-metre infinity pool and full fitness centre. hyatt.com
EAGLES NEST, RUSSELL
Honeymoon in the soaring climes of Eagles Nest, one of New Zealand’s most exclusive villa resorts. Featuring just five ultra luxe private villas set atop an island-like peninsula in the breathtaking Bay of Islands, expect to have everything taken care of with a dedicated concierge while you relax and enjoy the stunning sea views and spectacular natural surroundings and a multitude of amenities from a fully stocked wine cellar and resident chefs with a larder featuring freshly caught fish, venison, lamb, crayfish to swimming pools, spa therapies, adventure activities, water sports and even private beaches. eaglesnest.co.nz
DELAMORE LODGE, WAIHEKE ISLAND
Just 35 minutes by ferry or five by helicopter from downtown Auckland, boutique luxury hotel Delamore Lodge is built cliffside on Waiheke Island, with commanding views overlooking Owhanake Bay. Set in lush tropical gardens featuring a waterfall, jacuzzi, sauna, Italian-style fireplace and famous heated infinity pool, the resort-style hotel has just four guest suites and a two-bedroom apartment, each with an intimate courtyard where honeymooners can relax in uninterrupted privacy. delamorelodge.com
SOLITAIRE LODGE, ROTORUA
Soak up the gorgeous views over Lake Tarawera and a backdrop of lush native forest and volcanic landscape while honeymooning in style at Solitaire Lodge. The understated design and indoor/outdoor flow invites you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. Or if adrenalin, adventure or thermal fun are more your bag, all of Rotorua’s unique offerings are on the doorstep. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks and canapés including a showcase of some of New Zealand’s best wines, before a five-course meal served in the dining room or your own suite. solitairelodge.co.nz
ACACIA CLIFFS LODGE, TAUPO
Architecturally-designed to maximise the lake and mountain views, this luxurious property offers an uninterrupted panorama of Lake Taupo, Mount Tauhara and the Kaimanawa Ranges. Each of the four suites are designed to ensure total privacy and comfort and to take full advantage of the sought-after location. Every stay at Acacia Cliffs includes complimentary wine and beer, pre-dinner drinks and canapes and a full gourmet breakfast enjoyed on the sun-drenched decks or even in bed. acaciacliffslodge.co.nz
EDENHOUSE, NELSON
Award-winning Edenhouse is a six-star country lodge in the idyllic Orinoco Valley. Choose from three spacious and elegant accommodation options including two unique cottages and a lodge suite, each with floor space in excess of 110 square metres and located in beautiful established garden settings. Breakfast, dinner, fine wines and all other beverages are included in the tariff and all meals draw on delicious fresh local produce and can be enjoyed in a variety of indoor and outdoor locations. edenhouse.co.nz
OTAHUNA LODGE, CHRISTCHURCH
Set in pastoral surroundings against the cone of an ancient volcano, Otahuna Lodge is a grand and extensive Victorian mansion that offers its guests a unique sense of wonder and discovery with premium accommodation, glorious gardens and sophisticated cuisine. Each of Otahuna’s seven suites is decorated with the best of classic and contemporary features including ornate fireplaces, custom-made linens, deep bathtubs for a decadent soak and vases of fresh flowers picked from the garden. The in-house dining celebrates the best of seasonal New Zealand produce, with an emphasis on estate-grown offerings, and can be enjoyed communally in the opulent formal dining room or at a private table for two in the sunken wine cellar, the intimate library or in the drawing room turret. otahuna.co.nz
