Romantic 14-Day New Zealand Journey: Iconic Landmarks, Hidden Gems & Culinary Delights

Day 1: Arrival & Auckland Highlights

Auckland, New Zealand on November 1, 2025

9:00am

Arrival & Transport to Hotel

Arrive in Auckland and transfer to the centrally located Hotel DeBrett, a boutique hotel combining luxury with a romantic charm, ideal for couples.
NZD50, 1h

11:00am

Sky Tower Experience

Visit Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and harbor—perfect for couples to start their adventure with stunning panoramas.
NZD32, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Cassia

Enjoy sophisticated Indian fusion cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in an intimate setting, ideal for a romantic lunch.
NZD60, 1.5h

3:00pm

Auckland Domain & Wintergardens

Stroll hand-in-hand through Auckland Domain park and explore the beautiful Victorian-era Wintergardens with exotic plants and peaceful ponds.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The French Cafe

Dine at one of Auckland’s most romantic fine dining restaurants serving exquisite modern French-inspired New Zealand cuisine.
NZD100, 2h

8:30pm

Nightlife: Sweaty Betty’s

Experience a vibrant nightlife scene at this eclectic bar offering laid-back vibes, perfect for couples wanting an energetic yet intimate atmosphere.
NZD25, 2h

Day 2: Island Romance & City Gems

Auckland, New Zealand on November 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Amano

Savor freshly baked pastries and crafted coffee at Amano, known for its romantic ambiance and fresh, local produce.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Waiheke Island Day Trip

Take a scenic ferry ride to Waiheke Island, famous for its vineyards, artist studios, and stunning beaches, ideal for romantic wine tastings and beachside walks.
NZD40 (ferry), 6h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard

Indulge in a luxurious lunch paired with award-winning wines overlooking the picturesque vineyards and Hauraki Gulf.
NZD80, 1.5h

4:00pm

Return to Auckland & Rest

Relax at your hotel or enjoy a gentle stroll along the waterfront at sunset.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

Experience innovative New Zealand dishes in a lively yet intimate setting, accompanied by live jazz music — perfect for a couple’s evening out.
NZD70, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: The Imperial Lane

Explore Auckland’s coolest hidden laneway filled with stylish bars and creative cocktails for a memorable night together.
NZD30, 2h

Day 3: Travel to Rotorua & Cultural Immersion

Auckland to Rotorua, New Zealand on November 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out on your journey to Rotorua.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Rotorua

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Rotorua, enjoying lush landscapes and volcanic vistas en route.
Rental car approx NZD70/day, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Terrace Kitchen

Enjoy modern New Zealand cuisine with lake views, blending fresh local ingredients in a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
NZD45, 1h

2:00pm

Te Puia Geothermal & Maori Arts Centre

Discover the famous Pohutu geyser, bubbling mud pools and immersive Maori cultural performances, a truly romantic cultural experience.
NZD70, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner & Cultural Show at Mitai Maori Village

Feast on a traditional hangi meal followed by intimate storytelling and performances in forest surroundings, perfect for a couple's night.
NZD120, 3.5h

Day 4: Natural Wonders & Relaxation

Rotorua, New Zealand on November 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The GREENhouse Café

Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast in a bright and modern café known for fresh, organic offerings.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest Walk

Take a romantic walk among towering Californian redwoods with beautiful trails and suspension bridges, perfect for connecting with nature.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pic’s Peanut Butter Bar

Casual spot famous for unique sandwiches and local specialties with creative twists, delightful for a laid-back meal.
NZD30, 1h

1:30pm

Blue Baths Historical Tour & Spa

Explore this historic art deco bathhouse and indulge in relaxing spa treatments in a nostalgic setting, ideal for couples.
NZD50, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park & Spa

Experience the unique mud baths and hot springs surrounded by dramatic geothermal landscape, perfect for rejuvenation.
NZD65, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Savor contemporary dishes with bold flavors in a welcoming atmosphere, excellent for a romantic evening.
NZD70, 2h

Day 5: Travel to Wellington & City Exploration

Rotorua to Wellington, New Zealand on November 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a final Rotorua breakfast before your flight to Wellington.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight to Wellington

Fly to New Zealand’s creative capital, Wellington, known for its lively arts and café culture.
NZD120, 1h

10:00am

Check-in and settle at QT Wellington

Stay at this stylish boutique hotel blending art and comfort, perfectly suited for couples seeking romance and culture.
NZD180 per night, 1h

11:30am

Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum

Explore New Zealand’s top museum with world-class interactive exhibits covering natural history, art, and Maori culture.
Free, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Ortega Fish Shack

Delight in fresh, locally sourced seafood and vibrant flavors in an intimate atmosphere.
NZD55, 1.5h

4:00pm

Botanical Gardens & Cable Car

Take the iconic Wellington Cable Car up to the Botanic Gardens and enjoy a romantic walk with spectacular cityscapes.
NZD12, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Logan Brown

Indulge in fine dining in a historic building with sophisticated dishes crafted from seasonal New Zealand ingredients.
NZD100, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife: Matterhorn Bar

Relax in this cozy, jazz-inspired bar known for excellent cocktails and a romantic ambiance.
NZD30, 2h

Day 6: Weta Workshop & Hidden Gems

Wellington, New Zealand on November 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Fidel’s Café

Enjoy an eclectic breakfast with Latin-inspired flavors in an artistic, romantic setting.
NZD30, 1h

10:00am

Weta Workshop Guided Tour

Discover the magic behind movie effects and design in an interactive, behind-the-scenes experience of blockbuster films including Lord of the Rings.
NZD55, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Botanist

Dine in this atmospheric bar and restaurant featuring a botanical cocktail menu and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
NZD50, 1.5h

2:30pm

Hidden Gem: Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Explore this extraordinary urban wildlife sanctuary, home to rare native birds and a tranquil environment perfect for couples.
NZD28, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Monsoon Poon

Experience vibrant Southeast Asian street food-inspired dishes in a chic, casual setting.
NZD65, 2h

9:00pm

Nightlife: Hawthorn Lounge

Enjoy lively music and craft cocktails in a stylish bar that blends intimacy with energy.
NZD25, 2h

Day 7: Travel to Queenstown - Iconic Scenery

Wellington to Queenstown, New Zealand on November 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your scenic flight south.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight Wellington to Queenstown

Fly to Queenstown, surrounded by spectacular mountains and lake vistas known for romance and adventure.
NZD150, 2h

11:00am

Hotel check-in at Matakauri Lodge

Stay at this luxurious lodge outside Queenstown offering spectacular lake and mountain views, perfect for couples seeking privacy and romance.
NZD450 per night, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Amisfield Bistro

Dine at a romantic winery bistro offering seasonal dishes and award-winning wines just minutes from Queenstown.
NZD80, 1.5h

2:30pm

Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

Take a leisurely afternoon cruise on the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw with stunning mountain scenery and a picture-perfect experience for couples.
NZD65, 2h

5:00pm

Spa Treatment at Onsen Hot Pools

Book a private couple’s hot pool session overlooking the Shotover River canyon for an unforgettable romantic retreat.
NZD150, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rata

Enjoy New Zealand’s modern cuisine crafted with locally foraged ingredients in an elegant, yet cozy setting.
NZD90, 2h

10:00pm

Nightlife: Bardeaux

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in this chic and intimate bar, perfect for winding down the day together.
NZD30, 2h

Day 8: Adventure & Romantic Views

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen

Start your day with fresh coffee and nourishing breakfasts in a stylish café with lake views.
NZD25, 1h

9:30am

Skyline Gondola and Luge

Ascend the gondola for breathtaking views, then enjoy a fun luge ride together - a playful and scenic couple’s activity.
NZD55, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Bunker

This cozy, secluded restaurant offers flavorful dishes in a romantic setting tucked away from the bustling town center.
NZD75, 1.5h

2:00pm

Queenstown Gardens

Walk hand-in-hand through these beautiful gardens featuring sculptures, lakeside views, and quiet spots ideal for couple photos.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Wine Tasting Tour – Gibbston Valley

Visit several boutique wineries to sample Pinot Noir and other varietals while enjoying breathtaking vineyard vistas together.
NZD70, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at Botswana Butchery

Dine on prime local meats and seafood in an elegant atmosphere with candlelight, perfect for a special romantic evening.
NZD100, 2h

Day 9: Milford Sound Romance

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 9, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before your exciting day trip to Milford Sound.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Milford Sound Scenic Flight & Cruise

Fly over Fiordland’s stunning fjords for dramatic views, then cruise Milford Sound’s iconic waterfalls and wildlife in an intimate setting.
NZD450 (flight+cruise combo), 6h

2:00pm

Return to Queenstown & relax

Take time to unwind after a day of breathtaking natural beauty.
Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Jervois Steak House

End the day with a sumptuous steak dinner in a lively setting built for food lovers.
NZD90, 2h

Day 10: Glenorchy & Leisure

Queenstown, New Zealand on November 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Patagonia Chocolates Café

Indulge in handmade chocolates and fresh coffee to energize your day.
NZD20, 1h

9:00am

Day Trip to Glenorchy

Drive through spectacular landscapes to this tranquil lakeside village, perfect for romantic walks, photography, and a quiet getaway.
Car rental fuel NZD25, 5h

3:00pm

Return to Queenstown

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon back in town with lakeside walks or café stops.
Included, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Bunker

Savor intimate, hearty dishes in this secluded city gem favored for romantic dining.
NZD75, 2h

Day 11: Travel to Dunedin & Heritage

Queenstown to Dunedin, New Zealand on November 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last morning in Queenstown with a delicious breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Dunedin

Head east on scenic drive to Dunedin, a city with strong Scots heritage and elegant Victorian architecture.
Car rental fuel NZD50, 4.5h

1:00pm

Check-in & lunch at The Good Oil

Stay at the Distinction Dunedin Hotel and enjoy fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes for lunch at this well-regarded bistro.
NZD120 hotel, NZD40 lunch, 1.5h

3:00pm

Dunedin Railway Station & Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

Admire the stunning railway station architecture and visit the museum showcasing Otago’s social history in an intimate setting.
Free (station), NZD15 museum, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Plato

Dine on local seafood and seasonal dishes in a charming and cozy atmosphere.
NZD60, 2h

8:30pm

Nightlife: Speight’s Ale House

Enjoy a relaxed evening sampling classic New Zealand beers in a historic pub setting.
NZD25, 2h

Day 12: Castle & Wildlife Wonders

Dunedin, New Zealand on November 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dawn Chorus

Start your day with fresh, wholesome coffee and breakfast delights in a tranquil location.
NZD20, 1h

9:30am

Larnach Castle

Visit New Zealand’s only castle with stunning gardens and rich history, an enchanting and romantic spot for couples.
NZD43, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Perc

Relax in this café known for quality and creative dishes in a cozy setting.
NZD35, 1h

2:30pm

Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour

Explore this wildlife haven with opportunities to see albatrosses, penguins, and seals on a private guided tour, intimate and unforgettable.
NZD120, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at No. 7 Balmac

Enjoy contemporary dishes highlighting local ingredients in an intimate, romantic restaurant setting.
NZD70, 2h

Day 13: Travel to Christchurch & Gardens

Dunedin to Christchurch, New Zealand on November 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relax before traveling north to Christchurch to continue your romantic journey.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive or bus to Christchurch

Enjoy an approximately 5-hour drive or bus ride through beautiful South Island landscapes to Christchurch.
NZD80 bus / rental varies, 5h

1:00pm

Check-in & Lunch at Little High Eatery

Check into the Hotel Montreal and enjoy a diverse food hall lunch with numerous local vendors offering fresh casual meals.
NZD140 hotel, NZD35 lunch, 1.5h

3:00pm

Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Avon River

Take a romantic stroll through the botanic gardens followed by a punting boat ride on the Avon River for a classic couple’s experience.
Free (gardens), NZD40 punting, 2.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Twenty Seven Steps

Experience contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a cozy, elegant atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening.
NZD70, 2h

9:00pm

Nightlife: The Dirty Land

Unwind with craft cocktails and creative drinks in an intimate, stylish bar favored by locals.
NZD25, 2h

Day 14: Final Day: History & Farewell

Christchurch, New Zealand on November 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in New Zealand at a leisurely pace.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Canterbury Museum

Visit this beautifully restored museum featuring regional history, Maori culture, and art exhibitions highlighting New Zealand’s heritage.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Curator's House

Savor seasonal, local cuisine in a charming setting with vine-covered alfresco seating, ideal for a romantic last meal.
NZD50, 1h

2:00pm

Christchurch Gondola & Lyttelton Harbour

Take the gondola for sweeping views of Christchurch, then enjoy a short trip to Lyttelton Harbour for serene vistas and quiet time together.
NZD44 gondola, Travel NZD30, 3h

5:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Inati

Conclude your journey with a multi-course shared dining experience focusing on fresh local ingredients and innovative flavors in an intimate space.
NZD110, 3h