New Zealand and Cook Islands Romantic Getaway
Enjoy romance and adventure in New Zealand, from Queenstown to glacier country to Christchurch. Then unwind in the idyllic Cook Islands with 2 nights at a beautiful resort.
This New Zealand and Cook Islands Romantic Getaway was created for a couple from Washington, D.C. They were both starting graduate school, so they wanted a quick, romantic vacation while they had the chance.
They started their New Zealand and Cook Islands Romantic Getaway on the South Island of New Zealand in Queenstown. This popular alpine town offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range at every turn. They stayed at a comfortable hotel in town where they could easily walk to restaurants and attractions.
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, so they decided to take the leap and go canyon swinging! They also took the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak and enjoyed a romantic dinner at the Stratosfare restaurant.
Next for their New Zealand and Cook Islands Romantic Getaway, they drove through some of the most scenic portions of New Zealand en route to Franz Josef for some hiking in glacier country. Then they took the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch, taking in the stunning scenery of the South Island along the way.
Before they went home, they wanted to spend a few days on the beach, so we sent them to the beautiful Cook Islands. These little-known islands are the hidden gem of the South Pacific—a place where sun, sand, and smiles are abundant. They spent 2 nights at the fabulous Pacific Resort Rarotonga, and had their days at leisure to relax on the beach and explore this friendly island.
At last, their New Zealand and Cook Islands Romantic Getaway came to an end, and they began their journey home. The couple agreed this vacation was the perfect way to unwind before starting their busy school lives!
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to New Zealand! Fly into Queenstown and pick up your rental car. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, if not the world. Enjoy some leisure time today to explore the beautiful scenery, and rest up for tomorrow’s adventures!
Azur Lodge
Day 2 – 3
The next 2 days are yours to spend at leisure in Queenstown. Any adventure you could imagine is at your fingertips in this gorgeous setting. Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak and luge down the mountain; go bungy jumping or canyon swinging; take a thrilling jetboat ride on Dart River; enjoy thrilling mountain bike trails in the Southern Alps; and much more. You can also drive to the Central Otago region for wine tasting and beautiful scenery.
Azur Lodge
Day 4 – 5
Drive along the unspoiled, less traveled West Coast. Pass through quaint townships like Wanaka and be sure to have your camera ready, as there are plenty of waterfalls and short, scenic hikes along the way. Arrive in Franz Josef, where rainforest meets glacier country. Your hotel is set amongst native forest against a stunning backdrop of high alpine peaks—the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking on the base of the glacier!
Te Waonui
Day 6
Today, continue your drive up the rugged West Coast to the town of Greymouth. From here, you will board the TranzAlpine train for one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Traveling from one coast of New Zealand to the other, you’ll ride through lush beech rainforest and the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending to the fields and farmland of the Canterbury Plains. Upon arrival in Christchurch, enjoy a private transfer to your downtown hotel.
The George
Day 7
Today, enjoy a shuttle to the airport, where you’ll take a quick flight to Auckland and onward to the sunny Cook Islands! Arrive on the main island of Rarotonga, where your private transfer will take you to your luxurious accommodations at the Te Manava Suites Rarotonga. Known for its legendary beauty, Rarotonga is home to beautiful beaches, stunning lagoons, and mountainous peaks.
Te Manava Suites
Day 8-9
These days are yours to spend at your leisure in this tropical paradise. The ocean is at your fingertips, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. You can cruise the lagoon in a traditional vaka (boat), rent bicycles or scooters to explore the island’s hidden gems, go hiking on lush mountains, indulge your senses at the spa, or simply relax on the beach with a drink in hand. In the evening, enjoy barefoot dining on the beach and perhaps take in a grand performance by island dancers and fire throwers.
Te Manava Suites
Day 10
Today, your fabulous New Zealand and Cook Islands adventure comes to an end. Enjoy a transfer to the airport, where you will begin your journey home.
About this vacation
Cost Per Person
Does not include the cost of airfare
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