Romantic New Zealand Itinerary: Rugged Landscapes Meet Ultimate Luxury

Jackie and Grant are an adventurous, fun-loving couple in their 30s who were brought together by their shared passions for travel and the great outdoors.

These lovebirds enjoy staying active and immersing themselves in nature during their journeys around the globe, especially through activities like horseback riding, hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and cycling. However, they also value having a luxurious and comfortable hotel where they can be pampered, and recover from their many excursions.

The couple uses travel as an opportunity to bond and strengthen their relationship, so a healthy dose of romance is necessary on all of their trips. Recently, they enlisted the help of Project Kaif to choose their next destination and curate an adventure that would tick all of their boxes.

With all of their interests in mind, we planned Jackie and Grant’s ultimate romantic getaway to New Zealand.

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Destination

New Zealand is one of those magical destinations that makes romance easy. Snuggle up in a secluded mountain lodge with a nice bottle of wine, or hike to a roaring waterfall hand in hand; whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, New Zealand has something for every couple.

While the North Island certainly offers its own appeal (including swimmable beaches, scuba diving, warm weather, and rich Maori culture) Jackie and Grant were swayed by the South Island’s dramatic scenery. Here, the rugged, snow-capped Southern Alps serve as the backdrop for an array of lakes, fjords, and charming mountain towns...perfect for our adventurous couple.

Step 2: Where to Sleep, Eat, Drink, and Play

Stay: Matakauri Lodge & Seascape at Annandale

Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is the jumping off point for many of the South Island’s most noteworthy adventures, including Milford Sound, Lake Wanaka, and the Routeburn Track. It’s also home to the luxurious lakeside Matakauri Lodge, where we booked Jackie and Grant a stunning Deluxe Suite.

Whether they were relaxing in the oversized bathtub, enjoying a glass of wine on the large balcony, or warming up by the fire in the sitting room, the couple was swept away by the gorgeous lake and mountain views from their room at Matakauri.

Jackie and Grant also spent several romantic nights in the Seascape villa at Annandale, a secluded luxury retreat on Banks Peninsula. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlook the fully private bay below, so they could enjoy the views from the plush king-size bed, outdoor spa, or deck lounge with fireplace.

Eat: Alfresco Picnic Under the Stars

For a romantic experience Jackie and Grant would never forget, we arranged a private picnic for two on a scenic peak near Queenstown. A basket stocked with gourmet snacks and fine New Zealand wine was waiting for the couple in the secluded location when they arrived.

Jackie and Grant watched the sun set over the majestic mountains while they dined, then sipped wine under the starry night sky. This romantic dining experience ended up being an all-time travel highlight for the couple.

Do: Explore New Zealand’s Wild Beauty

Project Kaif arranged a variety of private expeditions for Jackie and Grant, where they bonded over their shared love of captivating landscapes and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

The duo sailed through sparkling Milford Sound, hiked alongside towering peaks and glacial lakes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, soaked in steamy natural hot springs, and rode horses through picturesque river valleys.

As for the couple’s favorite experience? Clinking champagne glasses at dawn after watching the sun rise over the Southern Alps...from a hot air balloon!

Step 3: Booking the Right Travel Arrangements

Thanks to the South Island’s rugged terrain, the path from Point A to Point B is often blocked by snow-capped peaks and vast lakes and fjords...which can make travel complicated.

To ensure that Jackie and Grant’s romantic getaway was both completely memorable and as hassle-free as possible, we called in a unique mode of transportation: helicopter. Jackie and Grant traveled in style via private helicopter to their Seascape villa, as well as to their mountain top picnic.

Dreaming of a romantic escape of your own? Contact Project Kaif today to start planning your perfect getaway.