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The best romantic getaways in New Zealand for starry-eyed luxury lovers in 2025

These romantic New Zealand getaways hit harder than a Hallmark card.
The facade of the Lindis Accommodation on New Zealand's South Island
Watch the sunset from floor-to-ceiling windows at The Lindis on the South Island of New Zealand
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Rugged, wild and untamed. The beauty of Aotearoa lies in its high peaks, glacial lakes, subtropical forests and dramatic coastlines. As diverse as it is splendid — from the tranquil Bay of Islands to the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound — New Zealand’s natural scenes provide the perfect backdrop for intimacy. The romantic getaways New Zealand has to offer, therefore, pluck at all holidaymakers’ heartstrings — whether you seek chic alpine luxury or hideaways surrounded by wild native bushland. 

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The charm of these romantic getaways in New Zealand is tied to their unique locales — think private hot tubs with panoramic lake views, crackling fireplaces in cooler climates, and serene beach scenes.

Whether you’re going North Island or South, dial the romance to an all-time (alpine) high at one of these gorgeous romantic getaways in New Zealand.

The best romantic getaways in New Zealand for 2025


Te Ika-a-Māui / North Island getaways

One of the most romantic getaways New Zealand, Eagles Nest
First Light villa at Eagles Nest

01

Eagles Nest

Bay of Islands

Intrinsic romanticism can be found along New Zealand’s northeastern coast at the beautiful Bay of Islands, and nowhere more so than at Eagles Nest. This subtropical rainforest resort dots just five private villas along the valley’s ridgeline, each offering sweeping ocean views. From the infinity pools to the five-star service, every accommodation here lives up to even the most exacting of standards. But if it’s romance you’re after, you’ll want to book the First Light villa, where a mezzanine bedroom invites sunrise views and a garden jacuzzi calls for starlit soaks.

Reasons to stay:

  • Private balcony
  • Room service
  • Private hot tub
The facade of secluded Blackwood Cabin Airbnb North Island New Zealand

02

Sleeps: 2

Tucked away in a lush blackwood forest just minutes from Raglan, Blackwood Cabin is a secluded sanctuary designed for ultimate relaxation. This stylish tiny home blends rustic charm with modern comfort, featuring a cosy lounge, a queen bed with an organic NZ wool mattress, and a tranquil rain shower. The outdoor stone bath, perched on a covered deck, is the true highlight — soak under the stars with a glass of wine in hand. Wake up to birdsong, sip coffee with treetop views, and explore Raglan’s vibrant cafés and boutiques before retreating to your private hideaway. 

Reasons to stay:

  • Outdoor stone bath
  • Just five minutes from Raglan township
  • Recently renovated with stylish intriors
The pool and exterior of the stoney lodge at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers North Island

03

If food and wine are your raison d’être, Cape Kidnappers is the luxury lodge for you. Located on the coastal fringes of Hawke’s Bay – the nation’s famed food bowl – this whimsical retreat makes the most of its location, offering understated luxury on the doorstep of New Zealand’s second-largest wine region. Each generously appointed, open-plan suite offers open fireplaces, plush king beds and bucolic vistas to boot.

Reasons to stay:

  • Choose from one of 26 individually furnished rooms
  • Enjoy a full-service spa
  • Access to the on-site golf course
The facade and view of the bedroom from the window at The Glasshouse Airbnb North Island New Zealand

04

The Glasshouse

Whangārei

Sleeps: 2

A secluded masterpiece on Te Ika-a-Māui’s breathtaking east coast, The Glasshouse is an architectural gem where luxury meets nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows immerse you in a forest of ancient pōhutukawa, with panoramic ocean views from every angle. Enjoy private walking tracks, direct access to a secluded cove for fishing and swimming (snorkelling gear included in the rental), and in-house catering or spa services. A sanctuary of tranquillity and exclusivity, this retreat promises absolute privacy, where the sound of waves and birdsong replace the noise of everyday life.

Reasons to stay:

  • Private access to swimming cove
  • Floor-to-ceiling views of the pōhutukawa forest
  • Snorkelling gear provided
The cosy villa on the lake at Huka Lodge in Taupo Airbnb North Island New Zealand

05

Huka Lodge

Taupō

Set in pristine Taupō, Huka Lodge is the original luxury lodge of New Zealand. It has played host to world leaders, royals and celebrities looking to escape reality and enjoy the serenity of New Zealand’s native bush, including the late Queen Elizabeth II. Operating under the luxury Baillie Lodges collection, alongside iconic properties such as Longitude 131 at Uluru and Lord Howe Island’s Capella Lodge, Huka Lodge houses 20 romantic suites and two private, multi-room retreats. 

Huka Lodge is currently closed for refurbishment and is set to reopen in autumn 2025.

Reasons to stay:

  • Stunning lakeside location
  • Heritage Edwardian architecture
  • Set between mountains
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Ocean and mountain views from Pipinui Point Airbnb North Island New Zealand

06

Pipinui Point

Wellington

Set 250 metres above the Tasman Sea, Pipinui Point is a beautiful cliffside retreat where nature and luxury meet. Wake to the sound of waves below, sip coffee on the expansive deck, and soak in the outdoor hot tub surrounded by native bush. As the sun sets over the rugged coastline, curl up by the fire in complete seclusion. Just minutes from Wellington, this exclusive hideaway offers bespoke experiences — from coastal walks to adrenaline-fuelled adventures — for an unforgettable escape.

Reasons to stay:

  • Unwind in the private hot tub
  • Breakfast and coffee provided
  • Several trail walks in the vicinity

Te Waipounamu / South Island getaways

The Lindis hotel amongst the snowy mountains South Island New Zealand

07

The Lindis

Ahuriri Valley

To experience some of New Zealand’s wildest landscapes, you need to head south. But of course, you’ll want to do so in style, which you can do at The Lindis, one of the most romantic luxury lodges in Te Waipounamu. Located in a glacial valley, this tranquil slice of paradise offers romantic seclusion in spades. Alpine picnics, steamy hot tub soaks and evening star-gazing sessions invite stolen moments, while more adventurous high-country activities such as horse trekking, heli-skiing and glacier walks can be arranged to fill adrenaline junkies’ days.

Reasons to stay:

  • Mountain views
  • On-site fitness centre
  • On-site parking
The pool with mountain views at Flockhill Station, a romantic getaway New Zealand boasts

08

Flockhill Station

Craigieburn Valley

This extraordinary place combines the monumental and the elemental; wild nature and cosseting luxury; the rough-hewn and the refined. Rugged snow-capped Southern Alps scenery encircles Flockhill Station, a 36,000-acre sheep station that was established in 1857. With only 36 guests here at any one time, there are 1000 acres to roam each. Secluded serenity indeed. The retreat’s restaurant, Sugarloaf, invites leisurely fireside wine sessions and exploratory dinners; other activities include whisky tastings, set to a vinyl soundtrack in the reclaimed miner’s cottage beyond the sunken firepit.

Reasons to stay:

  • Easy access to Arthur’s Pass
  • On-site restaurant featuring paired NZ wines
  • Wilderness experiences offered through concierge
The surrounding mountains, helicopter and lodge at Minaret Station, one of the most romantic getaways New Zealand has to offer

Situated on an alpine meadow at 3000 feet, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is one of New Zealand’s most plum properties. With just four private chalets surrounded by national parkland, staggering mountains and Lake Wanaka, the lodge can only be accessed by helicopter. So this one is for the high-flying honeymooners. Seclusion, hot tubs and stargazing are the name of the game at Minaret Station, where each impeccably elegant chalet makes the most of its high country position. Beyond the bedroom, once-in-a-lifetime experiences – such as scenic helicopter flights and expeditions to the glacier seracs of Aoraki Mount Cook – can be arranged at your whimsy.

Reasons to stay:

  • Private hot tubs
  • Scenic helicopter tours and expeditions available to book
  • Situated in an alpine meadow at 3000 feet
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The living room and deck, with views of Lake Wanaka South Island New Zealand

Plenty of places lay claim to lakefront views in Queenstown, but none share the absolute lakefront positioning – and accompanying views – of Eichardt’s Private Hotel. Built on the site of Queenstown’s first building (a woolshed-turned-hotel), this centrally located gem remains one of the most exclusive addresses in town while also providing a tranquil oasis, all dressed up in classic luxury flourishes. Seven suites offer picture-postcard views and roaring fireplaces, while the two-bedroom penthouse includes a full-service kitchen, plus an outdoor lounge, fireplace and hot tub — all overlooking the lake.

Reasons to stay:

  • Deep-soak bathtubs and rain showers in each room
  • On-site fitness centre
  • Ski storage and shuttle available
The facade of Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa South Island New Zealand

Located just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown airport – and 30 minutes from the nearest ski field – the luxury lodge sits prettily on the Gibbston estate, one of the region’s founding vineyards. The resort’s 24 private villas feature open gas fireplaces and are located a short walk from the winery’s cellar door and cheesery. Guests can choose to dine at the lodge’s private restaurant or head into nearby Arrowtown. Plus, we highly recommend an afternoon at the world-class spa or soaking in one of the two secluded hot pools that overlook the valley. 

Reasons to stay:

  • Convenient location close to Queenstown airport and ski fields
  • Winery and cellar door access
  • Close to scenic Arrowtown
The pool at Blanket Bay Glenorchy South Island New Zealand

12

Blanket Bay

Glenorchy

Cosy corners by stone fireplaces, spectacular Lake Wakatipu views, stirling service and alpine elegance call at Blanket Bay. This refined retreat is as stately as they come, and proves popular among couples looking to escape for a weekend of relaxation and reconnection. Choose from secluded chalet suites or gracious lodge rooms, or opt for the grandiose Chalet Stateroom — no matter which room you stay in, a romantic mood will be set.

Reasons to stay:

  • Complimentary full breakfast
  • Outdoor pool and spa
  • On-site restaurant
Peak View Retreat, a romantic getaway in Nelson South Island New Zealand

13

Sleeps: 4

Elegance and romance come together at Peak View: an exclusive luxury retreat where nature and indulgence intertwine. Designed with native timbers milled on-site, this two-bedroom sanctuary offers complete privacy, breathtaking vistas, and world-class comfort. Soak in the wood-fired, rainwater hot tub, unwind in the sauna, or cosy up by the fire as you gaze across Pepin Island, Cable Bay, and Abel Tasman National Park. With panoramic windows, tranquil forest trails, and a thoughtfully curated welcome hamper, Peak View is a true escape—offering serenity, seclusion, and soul-stirring beauty in New Zealand’s extraordinary South Island wilderness.

Reasons to stay:

  • Rainwater hot tub
  • Panoramic mountain views
  • Inclusive welcome hamper
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The facade of Skylark cabin in Twizel, one of the best romatnic getaways New Zealand South Island has to offer

14

Skylark Cabin

Twizel

Sleeps: 2

Skylark Cabin is the ultimate romantic getaway, offering complete seclusion amidst the breathtaking Mackenzie Region. Set between majestic mountains, this luxurious cabin for two offers the perfect blend of comfort and simplicity, inviting you to unwind and connect with nature. Spend your evenings under the stars in the outdoor hot tub, or cuddle up by the log fire after a day of exploration. With its private setting, spectacular views, and unparalleled tranquility, Skylark Cabin offers the perfect escape to recharge, relax, and make memories with your special someone.

Reasons to stay:

  • Private outdoor hot tub
  • Log-fire bonfire
  • Spectacular secluded views

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