I’ve photographed weddings up and down this beautiful country, and here’s my list of top places to elope in New Zealand.
New Zealand is without a doubt one of the most beautiful countries in the World, making it the perfect place for an elopement, . The diversity of the landscape means that around every corner is a new backdrop, from mountain ranges, to native waterfalls, to remote beaches.
Whether you want your elopement on top of snow covered mountains Lord of the Rings style, or in a little private beachside cove, New Zealand offers it all.
TOP PLACES TO ELOPE IN NEW ZEALAND
- QUEENSTOWN AND WANAKA, SOUTH ISLAND
If snowy mountains and lakes are your thing, then Central Otago is the area for you. Home to instagrammable locations like Roys Peak, the jaw dropping mountain ranges of Queenstown are truly something special. If you don’t want to hike to the top, there are some great helicopter companies specialising in elopements that can whisk you away to the secluded spots. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, and there’s plenty to keep you occupied during your stay, after all this is where bungee jumping was invented, but if you are after something a little more laid back, there are some world class restaurants to enjoy and relaxing hot pools to soak in after a day in the hills. The seasons differ dramatically, so this is something to consider when you book your elopement. Winter is June to September, when the arrival of the snow brings with it a lively snow scene, with six amazing ski fields and après ski on offer. Summer is November to March, and the warm weather is perfect for exploring the lake and hiking in the ranges. Can’t decided between snow or sun? Then Spring might be the best of both worlds.
2. TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK, NORTH ISLAND
Home to three active volcanos, Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ngauruhoe (aka Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings), this World Heritage site is based right in the middle of the North Island. With its diverse landscape, from volcanic peaks to native bush & waterfalls, the National Park is a natural wonder. The seasons do offer a different experience here, Summer (November to March) is popular with hikers due to the incredible mountain beauty and turquoise volcanic lakes. Whereas in Winter, the snow opens the two popular ski fields on the volcano.
3. THE COROMANDEL COAST, NORTH ISLAND
If white sandy beaches are your thing, then this is the place for you! With crystal clear oceans it’s not unusual to see dolphins and whales from the shore. One of our favourite thing about the beaches on the Coromandel, is that many of them are surrounded by native bush and waterfalls, making it the best of both worlds. Some of our favourites Coromandel beaches for elopements are New Chums Beach, Opoutere, Orokawa Bay, and Lonely Bay.
4. NELSON REGION, SOUTH ISLAND
Abel Tasman National Park – Does golden beaches, and turquoise oceans surrounded by native forests sound like your cup of tea? Then Abel Tasman might be your perfect elopement setting. The easiest way to access the park is via the water, so you could kayak your way in or catch a water taxi, from there all the remote bays are connected by hiking trails through glacier streams and bush.
Lake Rotoiti Nelson Lakes – A glacier lake surround by mountains. Get hitched on the lake shore or head up in to the hills to swap your vows with an insanely picturesque mountain view.
5. RAGLAN, NORTH ISLAND
This laid back surfing town is situated on the West Coast. With its black volcanic sand and beautiful natural bush, it’s a small vibrant town popular with surfers and artists.
I hope you found this top places to elope in New Zealand useful, there are so many amazing places to choose from, I found it really hard to narrow it down to just 5 of my favourites! I might need to do a follow up blog soon! If you need any help or advice with your New Zealand Elopement, please let me know I’m always here to help!
