This honeymoon offers a leisurely, fun, and comprehensive exploration of New Zealand. Three weeks will leave you satisfied and relaxed. It combines the luxury of several of New Zealand's fine lodges with more basic yet charming and gracious accommodations. You will see, do, eat, sip, relax, and spend leisurely hours in each others' company, in the midst of a remarkably beautiful country. A diverse experience for those honeymooners who have dreamed of taking the time they need to truly enjoy themselves.

Every day offers a new discovery - some related to stunning differences in landscape as you move across the country. Some related to the excitement of being on the water or the adrenaline of the wind rushing in your face. Others related to the special service, beauty and appointments of the fine places you will stay. Many, no doubt, related to each other and the start of your marriage.

You'll fly into Auckland to start your honeymoon - you'll want to relax upon arrival so we'll make it easy for you. Simply pick up your car and drive 15 minutes to Mollies, a boutique hotel in Auckland that offers luxurious accommodations with an eclectic, opera-themed flair. Here you'll gain your bearings, see the museums, and perhaps even sail around Auckland's harbor as do the contenders for the America's Cup. But truly, the heart of New Zealand lies in its countryside, the first part of which you will see is the volcanic interior of Rotorua.

In Rotorua you'll stay at Treetops Lodge - a collection of only 4 suites and a small number of villas, this lodge, the ultimate in luxury, is set in a pristine section of 800 year old forest. Venture out to explore the volcanic parks with boiling mud, geysers, mineral deposits and dense forests of New Zealand's omni-present and bizarre ferns. Or, stay on the Estate, and spend time fishing, horseback riding, and hiking. A short drive from Rotorua is Lake Taupo, where you will stay at Tauhara Sunrise. This special place offers you the chance to spend time with nature in the way of natural parks, or simply spend time with each other in the cozy, comfortable rooms. Taupo also offers excellent fishing, kayaking and hiking opportunities.

After relaxing at Lake Taupo, it's time to head to the South Island! You'll fly from Taupo to Christchurch where you'll have a couple of days to explore a city that feels a lot like England. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and take the opportunity to pick up a hand-knit wool sweater. You'll stay at the Charlotte Jane, a boutique hotel centrally located to all the sights. Then its on to Akaroa - situated on the beautiful Banks Peninsula. Who will drive? The winding roads require attention, but all you'll want to do is look out the window at the scenery (this is the case all over the South Island)! Here you can don wetsuits and swim with dolphins. Enjoy romantic walks across the sheep trails, admire the residents' unique floral gardens, or arrange for horseback riding. Several unique inns to choose from here, or more rustic, cabin-based accommodations as well.

Upon leaving Akaroa, you'll drive to Mount Cook, where you can have a drink at sunset as the clouds clear the peak - as good as it gets. If you are skiers, try guided heliskiing in the area - dropped off at the top in a helicopter, collected below. Otherwise, take advantage of the hiking trails which cross suspension bridges and wind around glacial lakes. The next stop, Wanaka, is a quiet town ringed by snow-covered peaks and fields of sheep. You can visit a working sheep farm and see how the animals are herded (dogs and motorcycles!), shear a sheep, or try farm-raised venison. Some farms even raise ostriches! While in Wanaka you will stay at the Mountain Range Lodge. You will enjoy the privacy, tranquility and top-notch cuisine this lodge offers, while still being steps from Mount Aspiring National Park.

But let's not forget Queenstown, the center of adventure and outdoor activity on the South Island. If bungee jumping isn't your thing, that's fine - try wine tasting instead, or dining at one of Queenstown's many restaurants or cafes. A little less adventurous than bungee jumping yet still daring are whitewater rafting excursions or parasailing above Lake Wakatipu. On one day you'll take a flight to Milford where you'll cruise the Sound and marvel at the scale of the peaks. That small object you see in the air is not a bird - it's an airplane!

Your honeymoon is nearing its end, but not without a stay in your own luxury villa right outside Queenstown at Azur. This lodge will stun you with its beautiful décor, excellent service, and gorgeous views of the surrounding lake and mountains. It's a wonderful place to unwind after all the activity in and around Queenstown.

Your three weeks here are as memorable as any other during the time you have known one another. And they'll be memorable for years to come.

Who will enjoy this trip
Those who have three weeks to spend on their honeymoon and enjoy exploring. Couples who wish to see a lot of the country. Those who would enjoy staying in a mix of nice lodges and more modest, yet comfortable accommodations.

Who should avoid this trip
Those who have less time for travel or would prefer less moving around. Contact us and we can help you find what is best scenario for your needs.