New Zealand had always been at the top of our travel wish list, so when it came time to plan our honeymoon, it felt like the perfect choice. With its jaw-dropping landscapes, endless outdoor adventures, and unique cultural experiences, we knew it would offer the ideal blend of relaxation and excitement. From exploring dramatic fiords to indulging in world-class food and wine, this trip promised everything we were looking for to kick off our next chapter together.
Our honeymoon began with excitement right at the Key West airport, which is finally under construction. Soon, there will be real gates—small wins! After a couple smooth flights and layovers, we boarded our Delta One suite for the long journey to Auckland. The flight was as comfortable as you’d hope, with thoughtful touches like slippers, noise-canceling headphones, and a fancy amenity kit. With the lumbar support/mattress pad, there’s no reason you can’t get a good night’s sleep in these suites.
Landing in Auckland, we found customs straightforward but recommend filling out the customs form prior to your departure to speed things up. We were catching a domestic flight, which was an adventure of its own. It’s about a 10-minute outdoor walk, though the green lines make it easy to navigate, and there’s a bus if you’re short on time. Due to our early arrival and my careful planning, we ended up with a lot of time in the domestic Auckland airport so if you have any questions please ask, I promise I have seen every inch of that airport! We eventually boarded a “regional“ flight to Kerikeri - which quickly became the smallest airport I had ever flown into! By this time, we were truly immersed in the local New Zealand charm.
Our first stop, The Sanctuary in the Bay of Islands, was nothing short of magical. Glennis welcomed us warmly, shared local tips, and even drove us into Paihia for dinner. The rooms were simple yet cozy, with the best towels I’ve ever used and a stocked fridge of local wine and beer—all included. Breakfast was a highlight, featuring fresh squeezed orange juice, homemade jams, and yogurt with granola that hit the spot. With its stunning views, infinity pool, and personal touches, The Sanctuary felt like the perfect start to our adventure.
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Request a quote below!
The Bay of Islands is home to the world’s second-bluest sky, as determined by NASA (just not when we were there)
Our sailing adventure in the Bay of Islands began with a bit of exploration before we even set sail. After picking up our sailboat in Opua, we headed to Russell for some provisions and supplies. Despite the rainy weather, we found a cozy spot at the Nauti Penguin restaurant where we enjoyed a delicious lunch, and then anchored overnight in a sheltered bay just South of Russell. Here, we had an unforgettable dinner at the Russell Boating Club with incredible local lamb shank and wine.
Fishing soon became a highlight, even though the rough waters had initially delayed our plans to head out into open water. Instead, we found a sheltered spot around Roberton Island, where the conditions improved, and the fishing was fantastic! We caught more than enough snapper for dinner before bringing the lines in and calling it a day. Then we headed for Otehei Bay for lunch, one of very few islands that is home to a restaurant. This island, known for its stunning views and eco-friendly ethos, is a must-see for anyone passing through. The restaurant served tasty bar food, and the setting was perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the water.
The following day we enjoyed a hike to a WWII Bunker on Moturua Island, which proved to be an adventure that took us through an unmarked, rocky terrain resembling a rainforest. Although it was a challenging hike, the panoramic views from the bunker were well worth the effort. Shortly after our hike, we experienced our first major storm at sea, causing us to unexpectedly relocate to Roberton Island for better protection. Once the storm passed, we took the opportunity to do some more fishing and enjoyed a relaxed afternoon on the island with wine, cheese, and freshly caught snapper.
The next morning, we finally got to experience what we had been waiting for: sailing on open waters! The weather was much calmer, and we thoroughly enjoyed the feeling of the wind in our sails. We made our way back to Russell, where we returned our fishing gear and enjoyed a light snack at Butterfish before heading to Sage Restaurant for a delightful culinary experience. After indulging in tasty food, great wine, and espresso martinis, we took a walk around Russell, exploring the old church and cemetery before heading to the Gables restaurant for dinner. The oysters were a highlight, sourced just down the road from a nearby oyster farm.
On our final morning aboard the boat, we woke up to some beautiful calm waters and enjoyed a snapper scramble before returning the boat early. We had a smooth ride to the Kerikeri airport before catching a flight to Blenheim, where our boutique hotel awaited.
Our next destination was the Marlborough region, known for its beautiful vineyards and wines. The flight was smooth, our hotel was conveniently close to the airport, and we were greeted by our driver for a seamless transfer. The check-in experience was fantastic, with a personalized touch that made us feel right at home. The hotel had a cozy, boutique feel, and we enjoyed a relaxing happy hour where we chatted with the staff and another couple. The drinks were complimentary, adding to the charm of the place. The restaurant was good, though the service was a bit slow, but it was perfect for our arrival day. The hotel offered a comfortable and intimate experience, making it feel like staying at a friend’s house. It’s definitely the type of place to unwind and enjoy the local vibe.
Biking the Vineyards
Our stay in Marlborough was largely about wine, of course, and we kicked things off with a morning bike tour with Explore Marlborough. This was an absolute highlight and I highly recommend it. Our guide, Sara, was fantastic, and all the wineries we visited were a treat. The area is pretty flat, but with the constant wind, I was definitely glad we had e-bikes to help us along. The wineries were all so welcoming, and the wine was absolutely delicious. The best part was riding around on our own after the guided tour—really allowed us to take in the beautiful scenery at our own pace. Later in the day, we enjoyed another happy hour, chatting with some of the new guests at the hotel, before heading out to Blenheim for dinner. For food lovers, I recommend checking out Frank’s Oyster Bay for some amazing fried oysters!
Be wary of Google Maps in wine country! They may send you by bike into a vineyard which may or may not have a proper exit!
Queenstown is renowned as the ultimate destination for adrenaline junkies, and our time here certainly lived up to that reputation, though we started things off pretty mellow.
Our first day we enjoyed a Kiwi Encounter, where we got up close with the iconic bird, a true highlight for animal lovers. Afterward, we treated ourselves to the legendary FergBurger—definitely a must-try for any visitor to Queenstown. The burger lived up to its reputation, and we savored every bite.
Next, we tackled the whitewater rapids of Shotover River with our awesome guide Libby. The experience was thrilling, with plenty of adrenaline-pumping moments. RealNZ made the whole thing enjoyable and safe, and we couldn’t have asked for a better rafting experience. Well, other than that it was cold - come prepared for glacial waters if you’re rafting in Queenstown!
On our free day, we decided to explore Arrowtown, a charming town just outside Queenstown. This gave us the opportunity to get the hang of the local bus system, which was a convenient way to get around Queenstown and surrounding areas. We hiked the New Chum Loop, which turned out to be a more intense trek than expected. However, it was worth it for the stunning views, and the waterfall at the end was the perfect reward. The hike was around 5 miles and took us nearly 2 hours, but the peaceful surroundings made it a great experience. We also stopped by Amisfield Winery for a tasting, where we picked up a bottle to take with us. The wine was superb! For dinner, we dined at Hyde, a lovely spot, before heading out to explore some of the local bars recommended by our hotel receptionist.
All needs for relaxation met, the following day we were off to our canyoning tour with Brig. This activity required a solid fitness level, but it was an absolute blast! The adventure was more challenging than our caving experience in Puerto Rico, but the reward was immense. With a small group, the pace was fast, and we managed to see and do so much more. If you’re looking for an exhilarating and unique experience, canyoning in Queenstown is definitely something to consider.
At last, the day of the bungy arrived! It was an intense experience—one that started with a 45-minute bus ride to the Nevis Centre, where we prepared for the jump. The check-in process was smooth despite the large number of participants, and once we arrived, we were transported to the jump station in a little trolley. Standing on the edge of the platform was definitely the scariest part, and for a brief moment, I thought about backing out. But once I jumped, it was an exhilarating 8.5 second freefall. The company runs things efficiently, and after the jump, you can immediately check out your photos and videos, a great touch. After the bungy, we headed back to Arrowtown for a gold-panning session before returning to Amisfield for a late lunch tasting.
Enjoy wet and wild adventure in Skippers Canyon on this family-friendly Queenstown rafting and sightseeing adventure. Take a scenic drive into Skippers Canyon as you learn about the region’s rich gold-mining heritage. On arrival at the base, strap into your safety kit and paddle onto the Shotover River’s class III and IV rapids. Paddle and splash as you enjoy the views over the mountain landscape.
This half-day Queenstown canyoneering adventure is action-packed! Walk through an ancient beech forest to a steep-walled canyon, where you descend by zipline, abseil (rappel) down waterfalls, plunge into natural pools, float down narrow passageways, and cascade down chutes. Expert guides ensure your safety and provide alternate routes depending on skill level.
Soar through the Queenstown forest on the world’s steepest tree-to-tree zipline, 1,500 feet (450 meters) above Queenstown. Choose from three different courses, one with a thrilling 68-foot (21-meter) drop. Or, tone down the adrenaline a notch on a longer course, perfect for families with kids aged six and up. Expert guides supervise your launch so all you have to do is take in the panoramic mountain and lake views.
Our overnight cruise with RealNZ was a seamless experience, thanks to their flexible pick-up options around Queenstown. The bus ride was comfortable, with occasional stops and informative commentary. While there was a slight delay, we were able to enjoy a scenic ferry ride, complete with snacks and drinks. On arrival, be prepared for the local bugs, but it’s a small price to pay for the beauty of the area!
The boat check-in was quick, and our cabins were surprisingly spacious, recently renovated, and well-equipped for the overnight journey. Captain Dave skillfully navigated the boat, and nature specialist Broc was an expert at spotting wildlife, including seals and even a penguin. While there’s no cell service or Wi-Fi on board, the lack of distractions made it easier to unwind. The boat offers a variety of board games to enjoy while relaxing and taking in the stunning surroundings.
The kayak excursion provided an unobstructed, peaceful view of the sound, which was a highlight. Dinner exceeded expectations with a delicious buffet, followed by cheese and dessert. Broc gave an insightful educational talk, adding to the experience.
The next morning began early with a penguin sighting, followed by a hearty breakfast and more wildlife viewing. We cruised through the spectacular Doubtful Sound, taking in breathtaking landscapes, and the “Sounds of Silence” experience was an incredible moment of calm amidst the natural beauty. Afterward, we returned to port and caught the shuttle back to Queenstown.
Don’t expect cell reception or Wi-Fi on any visit to the Fiordlands, simply embrace nature and immerse yourself in the experience
Upon arrival, Christchurch’s airport felt quieter than major airports back home. The vehicle pick-up process was smooth and I quickly got the hang of driving on the left. New Zealand’s surprisingly low traffic made the drive west on the Lewis Pass a serene experience, though not recommended at sunset. By 7 p.m., we found ourselves in an isolated area with closed gas stations and grocery stores, highlighting the peacefulness of the countryside.
At the hotel, Nadia greeted us warmly and had arranged a lovely surprise: bottles of wine waiting in our room and a meal ready for us. We enjoyed a shared charcuterie platter, two delicious desserts, and a decent salad before heading to the hot springs. Visiting them at night was a highlight of the day—so relaxing after the long travel.
The following day was all about indulgence with a full spa experience. We started with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a nature walk that took us past old mining homes, a peaceful and easy trek. The sauna infusion with Matthew was a standout experience, especially the cold plunge. We then enjoyed a New Zealand body scrub and wrap, followed by a rejuvenating afternoon sauna session with an algae clay mask. The day left us feeling truly rejuvenated and pampered.
This area along the Lewis Pass is said to be so rich in hot springs that you can just dig down a few meters and have your own personal hot spring.
Wilton Manors, Florida
(919) 943 8918
cara@wolftravels.com
Fill out the below form to connect and start planning your next trip today!