Romantic Activities in Auckland
Sky Tower
At 328 metres, the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views for up to 80 kilometres in every direction. Glass-fronted elevators take visitors up to the observation levels in only 40 seconds, travelling at 18 kilometres per hour along the way. The main observation level provides a 360 degree view of Auckland.
Orbit 360 Dining
Soaring high above Auckland you'll discover Orbit, a truly iconic New Zealand brasserie offering diners sensational views - and food to match. Situated at the top of Auckland’s Sky Tower, the dining room rotates once every hour, providing a truly unique experience with amazing 360-degree panoramas of the city, the Hauraki Gulf and beyond
Orbit offers a modern dining experience in a relaxed, open atmosphere with a delicious kiwi-inspired à la carte menu that features the best local and seasonal produce. As New Zealand’s only rotating restaurant offering 360-degree views, it’s an unforgettable experience that never ceases to delight.
Your experience doesn’t just stop at the restaurant. Diners can also enjoy complimentary Sky Tower admission 45 minutes prior to and/or upon completion of dining.
Zip, Dine and Wine - Waiheke Island
Collect your Fullers Ferry and Taste Tour Tickets from the Fullers Ticket Office; 99 Quay Street, Auckland. Catch the Fullers Ferry to Waiheke Island and meet your Eco Zip Adventures Driver to commence a full day Zip, Wine and Dine tour. Bringing you the very best of beautiful Waiheke Island in a single, relaxing day: scenic ferry transfers from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island, our fabulous flying-fox zipline and native forest walk experience, wine tasting and light lunch at trendy Stonyridge Vineyard, olive oil tasting at pretty Rangihoua Estate, wine tastings at Casita Miro, wine tasting at picturesque Mudbrick Vineyard, and a complimentary all-day travel card to continue to explore the island after the tour ends.
Auckland Wine Tours - Wine Trails
This is the perfect tour if you don’t have time in your schedule for separate activities. We combine a morning experiencing sub-tropical rainforest, waterfalls, black ironsand beach and Tasman Sea sightseeing with a great winery restaurant lunch, main course open menu, and tastings (included) followed by an afternoon of wine tasting at a further three family owned wineries. See details of the wines & wineries on the “West Coast” tour page. We offer the widest selection of wineries to visit.
Romantic Activities in Bay of Islands
Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour
Your full day tour enjoying the natural wonders of the North and uncovering the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region that is rich in Maori culture and tradition. Highlights include an easy boardwalk through ancient Puketi Kauri Forest past 1,000 year old Kauri trees and sand-boarding down the massive sand dunes on boogie boards at Te Paki Stream. Lunch is fish and chips at Houhora Game Fishing Club. The coach then thunders along the vast and empty Ninety Mile Beach. Upon arrival at Cape Reinga, you can wander out to the lighthouse and stand on the northern most tip of New Zealand to watch the Pacific Ocean collide with the Tasman Sea. You will also see where, according to Maori legend, spirits depart on their journey to the homeland of Hawaiki.
Bay of Islands - Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
Dolphin Seeker will allow you to take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukôkako, or as it is popularly known the Hole in the Rock'. According to Mâori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space... and if you get dripped on, consider yourself lucky!
Romantic Activities in Rotorua, Matamata & Waitomo
Hells Gate and Wai Ora Spa - The Soothe Experience
The unique geothermal muds and waters of Rotorua are renowned for their curative and invigorating properties - and this is particularly so at Hell's Gate - Rotorua's most active geothermal reserve. For more than 700 years Hell's Gate or Tikitere as it is known to the Maori (New Zealand's indigenous people) has been a special place of wellness from the medicinal sulphur lake to the curative waters and muds of Hurutini (name of a geothermal pool). With the arrival of the Europeans to New Zealand (Aotearoa) some 150 years ago, the special qualities of the muds and waters of Hell's Gate Tikitere, have been sought after with many documented and medically certified cures being effected. The special muds and sulphurous waters have been guarded for centuries by the Kaitiaki - 'Wai Ora' (guardian warrior) after whom the spa is named. There are special qualities retained in Hell's Gate mud which is a very fine suspension in the mineral enriched geothermal waters of the Hurutini pool.
Hobbitton Movie Set Tour
The tour starts with a drive through a 1,250 acre working sheep farm. The Hobbit Holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can then be viewed. See how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth. A tour guide escorts the clients through the 10 acre site while recounting fascinating details on how the Hobbiton movie set was created. At the end of the tour enjoy a sample bespoke beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. Relax in hand-crafted leather chairs in front of a crackling open fire and take in the view across the lake to the mill and Bag End.
Polynesian Spa
Polynesian Spa is New Zealand’s leading international spa, providing a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. In a picturesque, tranquil setting overlooking Lake Rotorua, visitors can enjoy a wonderful fusion of hot mineral spring bathing, spa therapies and lake views.
Volcanic Air
Based on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Volcanic Air offers the most comprehensive range of scenic flights and air tours in the region. Established in 1992, we have carried over 100,000 satisfied customers to experience our local volcanoes, geothermal reserves and lakes district and from both the air and the ground. Volcanic Air operate a mixed fleet of both helicopters and Rotorua’s only floatplanes. The versatility of these aircraft allows us to visit remote destinations that are hard to reach by other means. Our region is unique, and the diversity of its landscape is quite remarkable. We combine spectacular scenery with informative and interesting commentaries about an area that is considered as the cultural heart of New Zealand. Look no further than Volcanic Air for the best scenic flights Rotorua has to offer.
Rotorua Canopy Tours
Meet your authentic kiwi guides, and they'll get you into your ziplining harness. You'll drive out to the Dansey Road Scenic Reserve, just 10 minutes from our HQ. Step into a lost world and come face to face with towering trees and native flora untouched for centuries in one of the most intact native eco-systems you'll find anywhere in New Zealand. Journey in small intimate groups deep into 500 hectares of ancient forest. The experience includes a network of ziplines, suspended swingbridges, spiral staircases, treetop platforms and forest trails, and iconic features including a suspended cliff walkway and 18m abseil Immerse yourself in this breathtaking country the way it once was and hear the inimitable birdsong of New Zealand native birds including Tuis, North Island Robins, Kereru and Tomtits in their natural habitat. Just by being on the tour, you are already contributing to the conservation effort, as part of your ticket price goes towards the programme to restore the beautiful forest and remove all introduced pests.
Romantic Activities in Wellington
Lord of the Rings City Locations & Weta Cave Tour
A Wellington Rover Tours vehicle will pick you up from your accommodation for your transfer to Wellington Information Centre, the departure point of your tour. At 08:30am or 01:30pm join your guide to commence a Lord of the Rings Half Day Tour around the Wellington region exploring the film locations used around Wellington. Head past the Embassy Movie theatre that held the world premier of LOTR: Return of the King. See where the stars walked and 100,000 people gathered to watch. Then it's up to Mt Victoria. After a quick stop at the lookout, your guide will drive down to the 'Green Belt'. Here you will walk through the forest to stand where the actors stood while filming. Next stop is the Weta Cave and Workshop Exhibition for a guided tour of the prop-making and make-up side of Weta Studios. Tour concludes approximately 4 hours after commencement, at which time accommodation drop offs will commence.
Zealandia
TThe ultimate way to experience New Zealand's rare and amazing wildlife! Join one of our experienced guides on an engaging and informative walk through the picturesque sanctuary to witness the native wildlife that is once again living on the mainland. With everything in ZEALANDIA living wild, our nature-guru guides will use their knowledge of birdsong, habitats, and local flora to track down even the rarest of our unique animals. New Zealand has some of the most unique biodiversity and advanced conservation techniques in the world. Soak up the beautiful scenery while learning more about our unique ecological history.
Romantic Activities in Queenstown
Milford Sound Cruise
Depart Queenstown and travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu through rolling countryside to Te Anau. Continue along the spectacular Milford Road through impressive alpine scenery. Upon reaching Milford Sound, board the scenic cruise vessel and enjoy views of dramatic highlights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier. Look out for wildlife such as seals basking on the rocks from the vessel's purpose-built observation lounge and large deck. Following the cruise re-board the coach for the return journey to Queenstown
Skyline Gondola and Luge + Star Gazing + Dinner
Take a scenic Gondola ride on the Southern Hemisphere's steepest Gondola for quick and easy access to Queenstown's most spectacular views. The Gondola rises 450 vertical metres above Queenstown on an average incline of 37.10 to the Skyline complex on Bob's Peak.
Stargazing
Explore the Milky Way and encounter neighbouring stars, nebulae and clusters and more. Get a look at the Southern Cross and other famous constellations in our all-weather Stargazing experience.
Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar
Enjoy a scenic Gondola ride and sumptuous buffet-style lunch or dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant, serving iconic New Zealand dishes infused with international flair. Allow at least 20 minutes (40 mins in peak periods)to travel up the Gondola prior to the time booked for Dinner.
Spirit of Queenstown and Nicholas Farm
Spirit of Queenstown offers the longest, premium cruising experience on Lake Wakatipu. Board the vessel and enjoy a return cruise to Mt Nicholas High Country Farm on the western shores of the lake on a modern, spacious, purpose-built catamaran. Cruise through Bob's Cove and view flora and fauna up close, and enjoy spectacular views towards Glenorchy, Mt Earnslaw, the Southern Alps and Remarkables mountain range. Disembark the vessel and join the farm guide on a short tour of this truly authentic, working high country merino sheep farm. Watch the farm guide round up sheep, meet working farm animals used on the farm, and get up close to merino sheep whose wool is provided directly to Icebreaker clothing company. Enjoy a light Farmers Platter Lunch at the woolshed before boarding the vessel for the return cruise to Queenstown. Complimentary tea and coffee is provided on the cruise and at Mt Nicholas High Country Farm.
Onsen Hot Pools
Onsen Retreat & Day Spa is located high on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, providing views over breathtaking alpine scenery and the perfect vantage point to watch the Shotover Jet boats on the river below.
Our world-renowned cedar hot pools are hot and steamy on snowy days, warm on rainy days, cool and shady on sunny days, and simply magical in the evenings!
With a choice of either an Original Onsen Experience or Outdoor Onsen Experience, our exclusive use cedar hot tubs are ideal for individuals or groups of up to 4 people. Heated to approx. 38.5 degrees, you will have 60 minutes to soak and relax in nature while you enjoy a complimentary drink and snack for the ultimate in relaxation.
Our Original Onsen Experience and its idyllic cedar-lined hot tubs have long been a highlight for Queenstown visitors and locals alike. A unique feature of this experience is the retractable roof which allows you to convert your room from indoor to outdoor and back again at the touch of a button
Dart River Cruise – Funyark
Your Funyak journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride from Glenorchy up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience exciting 360 degree spins along the way as you marvel at the untouched beauty of this location, inaccessible by other means. Learn about Pounamu and the long-standing history of the area.
After your jet boat ride, you will travel back down stream with our expert guides in our unique Funyaks (inflatable kayaks) steering your way through pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Whakatipu. Explore channels and side-streams in this spectacular wilderness location and witness the native flora and fauna of the area.
Just when you think your Funyak journey is over, you will enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch in the wilderness before heading home via 4 wheel drive coach to explore locations used in movies ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’.
This action-packed full day of exploration gets you away from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown to experience the natural, untouched wilderness New Zealand is so famous for. With free transport and only a 45 minute, breathtaking drive from Queenstown, what are you waiting for?
Romantic Activities in Franz Josef
Glacier Hot Pool
There are three main pools that weave their way through the rainforest and offer a superb place to relax and rejuvenate amongst nature. The pools range in temperature from 36 to 40 degrees centigrade, and are covered by giant sails offering protection from the elements.
The three main pools have been gifted their names by our local Māori tribe, Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio:
Snow landing Experience - Helicopter Ride
With the combination of an exhilarating helicopter ride, jaw-dropping scenery and a two hour hike through the most spectacular glacier features, it's no wonder our guests often label their Glacier Heli Hike as the highlight of their visit to Aotearoa (New Zealand).
Your journey starts at our glacier base in Franz Josef Village where our friendly team will check you in, get you kitted out with the essential gear and give you a pre-trip briefing.
From here, your guide will lead you a on a short walk through native forest to the heli pad and get you ready to board your helicopter. Adrenaline levels start to spike as you board your helicopter and our highly trained pilot then whisks you away over the jaw dropping landscape - an opportunity to take in the full panoramic majesty of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere nestled within the surrounding mountains.
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Romantic Activities in Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Region
Tekapo Springs Stargazing
The ultimate in stellar relaxation, Tekapo Star Gazing is the only guided hot pools and star gazing experience in New Zealand. The tour operates from the renowned facilities of Tekapo Springs, combining the stunning Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with our soul-warming hot pools.
Glacier Explorer
An amazing encounter with Tasman Glacier and its terminal lake. Depart from The Hermitage Hotel. The bus will take you to the Tasman Valley, followed by a 30 minute alpine walk through the moraine and National Park. Board your custom built MAC boat, and enjoy the ever changing scenery, view the Tasman Glacier ice face from a safe distance and icebergs of all shapes and sizes with the opportunity to touch and taste the 300-500 year old ice crystals.
Romantic Activities in Canterbury, Christchurch and Kaikoura
Punting on Avon
Board a classic wooden Punt and take a tour through Hagley Park or Christchurch City. Your Edwardian Punter will guide you quietly past trailing willows, woodlands and leafy banks as you absorb the beauty of Christchurch's Botanic Gardens or the redeveloping centre of town. Punting on the beautiful Avon River is an iconic Christchurch attraction not to be missed. Each punting tour is accompanied by informative commentary. At the end you are returned to your point of departure.
Kaikoura Whale Watching
Board your Whale Watch Kaikoura vessel at "The Whaleway Station, Railway Station Road, Kaikoura to commence a Whale Watch Kaikoura cruise. The vessel is a modern catamaran designed especially for whale watching. The main passenger cabin is enclosed, air-conditioned and fitted with comfortable seating, while large outside decks offer great viewing and photo opportunities. Prepare for exciting up-close encounters with Giant Sperm Whales. Clients may also see migratory humpback whales (June-July), Hector's and Dusky Dolphins, Orcas (December-March) and NZ Fur Seals, as well as plenty of bird species including Royal Albatross, Petrels and Shearwaters. Cruise concludes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes after commencement, back at "The Whaleway Station.
Purepods
PurePods is a total immersion, totally private experience of your own slice of the beautiful New Zealand landscape. Your PurePod is made of heavy duty glass so you can see everything – from the starry night skies above to the native plants growing beneath your feet. Pull back the sliding doors on all three sides and indulge in the isolation. You will experience nature’s show vividly, utilising all of your senses whilst remaining sheltered in luxury. Imagine watching a winter storm roll in from the warmth and comfort of the PurePod, or basking in the summer sunshine while relaxing on the deck and taking in the stunning views.
The privacy, the isolation of a luxurious glass cabin completely surrounded by nature – the sky, the hills, the sea, the birds, the bush – takes you to another world.
Tranz Alpine Train
Experience the South Island’s striking natural landscape by taking a train between Christchurch and Greymouth. Along this journey you’ll see epic vistas, travel the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and see miles of native beech forest.
The TranzAlpine is one of the world's great train journeys covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way, taking just under 5 hours. You’ll traverse the majestic Canterbury Plains, to the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps - the journey of a lifetime.