New Zealand is known for its gorgeous scenery, Lord of the Rings inspired rolling hills, tranquil atmosphere, and friendly people. With all this in mind, New Zealand is one of the world’s best hot spots for getaways… including honeymoons! Honeymooning whilst reducing your footprint, can be difficult. But with New Zealand’s ‘clean green’ mantra, the country offers a huge variety of eco accommodation venues which we’ve added to our personal bucket list.
We’ve looked far and wide to bring you our very favourite eco-honeymooning spots in the land of the long white cloud (New Zealand).
Pure Pods: Christchurch (pictured)
You can tell by the name; you’re in for a cosy treat. The pure pod was designed to put you right in the middle of nature, indulge in all senses, and feel free from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pure pods are made totally from glass, meaning the roof, floor, and walls are 100% transparent. Gaze up at the stars at night, and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes in the daylight. Top this off with solar electricity, bio-fuel heaters, and many other eco-specs, and you’re away for a holiday of pure eco bliss.
Aro Ha: Queenstown (pictured)
Queenstown is known as one of the greatest adventure hot spots in the world. Aro Ha was created for people interested in nature, adventure, self-development, alternative health, and results-orientated fitness. An Aro Ha honeymoon involves yoga, sub-alpine hiking, spa therapy, vegetarian cuisine, un-cooking classes, massage, functional strength training, and mindfulness practices. The accommodation has been designed to have a sustainable and eco-friendly story which you can find out more about here.
Tikoki Eco Retreat: Malborough Sounds
If you’re up for canoeing, glow worm spotting, day walks, fishing, and tours of the gorgeous bay, you’re in for a treat! Tikoki is a secluded honeymoon getaway set up especially for peaceful evenings with candlelit dinners under the stars. The master bedroom is surrounded by native New Zealand bush, and the log fire means you’ll keep warm on the cooler evenings. The hosts aim to make your stay at Tikoki stress free, meaning they look after everything for you.
Warbler’s Retreat is another perfect spot for couples seeking escapism and time together after the stressful stage of planning a wedding. The romantic one bedroom cottage has a self-contained kitchen, and outdoor eating spaces positioned amongst gorgeous gardens. The Warblers Retreat grow their own produce, and provide you with seasonal fruit and vegetables every day. They cater to dairy free and paleo guests, and the fresh water outdoor spa is dreamy.
This hand built eco lodge sits nestled on a hilltop, with expansive views surrounding. It was built from recycled timber and energy efficient material, to reduce the impact of building, and keep nature at the heart of Manawa Ridge. The tranquil setting is perfect for honeymoons, meaning they now offer a complete honeymoon package. Enjoy a king bed, private pebble lined spa in a garden, a five-course meal for two (home grown meat and veggies), packed lunch and a walk, gourmet breakfasts, and a ride on their motorbike through the gorgeous Coromandel.
Canopy Camping Escapes: Nation Wide
Canopy Camping take glamping to the next level. The team have handpicked locations that are off the beaten track, where you can rest in quirky cabins, or cosy tents. They encourage you to: unplug and reconnect, slow down, and get close to nature. Glamping is the perfect start to a life of adventure together. Who doesn’t love hot water, decent toilets, and comfy beds, in the middle of nowhere, with the person you love?
Whether your budget is small or large, New Zealand offers some of the most picturesque honeymoon escapes in the world.
Images by Sandra Henri Photography, from her recent travels in NZ.