New Year in New Zealand is a truly magical experience. Not only is New Zealand one of the first countries to ring in the New Year, it’s also a perfect destination for a romantic experience with your loved one. So why not combine those two things?
There are plenty of romantic things to do in New Zealand to set the mood right. Christmas and New Year’s offer a steaming hot summer heat and some long, sunny days. It’s an ideal time to discover and explore the country’s most spectacular and scenic nature and landscape, whether you are in the North or the South Island. We got you covered with the top 10 most unforgettable things to do over New Year’s 2020. From fancy dining, to nature walks to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Here is the list, read along!
1. Dine at Orbit 360
If you love a romantic meal with a view, this is the place to go! The Sky Tower’s Orbit restaurant is an award-winning restaurant and ultimate romantic spot. The 190 metres high dining room rotates every hour, providing you with the most breathtaking and panoramic view of Auckland City, the Hauraki Gulf and beyond. The restaurant offers a modern dining experience. The menu is a kiwi-inspired à la carte menu based on the best local and seasonal produce. Your romantic experience doesn’t stop at the restaurant. Arrive early to take advantage of your complimentary access to the Sky Tower.
2. Go for a romantic picnic
Imagine having a romantic lunch with your significant other in the most beautiful and breathtaking landscape. Summer in New Zealand is the perfect time for it. Head to a food speciality store to bundle up on all the essentials and deli items you need for your picnic. Then head to a secluded spot where your hamper, fine New Zealand wine and intimate setting awaits you.
Many cities and towns in both the North and South Island have amazing botanic gardens and breathtaking nature to explore. There are six world-standard Gardens of International Significance throughout New Zealand, so if you are looking for the perfect picnic spot, we recommend checking out one of those for your romantic picnic.
3. See the first Sunrise in the New Year
There is something extremely special about watching the sunrise on the first day of the New Year. What’s even more special is to be one of the first people in the world to watch it.
As the rest of the world is preparing for their New Year’s Eve celebrations, you and your special one will be waking up to the first day of the year ready for a cup of coffee and an amazing sunrise. Gisborne is traditionally recognised as the place to watch the world’s first sunrise on the mainland, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. But you can watch it from anywhere in New Zealand!
Stay at the TOP 10 Waikanae Beach Holiday Park in the heart of Gisborne to make your New Year even more unforgettable and watch the sunrise from here, close to the beach. TOP 10 offers everything you need for a great vacation in Gisborne. Whether you are wanting to have the traditional campground experience or something more tailored to your needs.
4. Visit one of New Zealand’s food and wine events
New Zealand’s fresh produce, amazing wines and lively craft beer scene make it a perfect food destination. And the best part of it all is that it is easy for everyone including visitors to enjoy all of what the New Zealand food and beverage scene has to offer at one of the many food, wine and beer festivals. The summer holiday and New Year is the perfect time to explore, indulge and immerse yourself in one of the many food and wine events with your loved one.
Bring a blanket, some sunscreen and visit for instance the Gourmet Night Market in Coronation Park, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market in Gisborne or the Tamahere Country Market in Hamilton.
5. Honeymoon style getaway
Celebrating a wedding or honeymoon over the New Year holiday or simply just looking for a little romantic gesture for your significant other? Imagine waking up to the sound of nature, the mountain ranges, golden beaches or national parks? It doesn’t get much more romantic than that and it's the perfect honeymoon idea!
If you are looking for something a little bit more luxurious yet romantic, we recommend TOP 10’s unique Glamping experience. It is perfect for a romantic getaway. Relax in your own private space and wake up under the canvas to the lovely sound of nature with your significant other next to you.
6. Watch the fireworks
Welcome the New Year with the shimmering and colourful firework display when the clock hits midnight and we enter 2020. Make your way to one of New Zealand’s major cities such as Queenstown, Auckland or Wellington to watch the amazing firework displays, for free!
For the most stunning view and the absolute best place to watch the firework displays in Auckland is the Sky Tower, Harbour and Harbour Bridge. For Queenstown, head to Earnslaw Park at the lakefront for the best celebrations and fireworks. For Wellington, the fireworks will take place at the Frank Kitts Lagoon.
7. Visit Queenstown
Enjoy every little moment with your loved one by visiting Queenstown, New Zealand. From taking in the breathtaking views of the lakes and the mountain ranges to sipping quality coffee at one of the many bustling cafes. Queenstown is truly the place to be to connect with each other!
There are plenty of things to do over the New Year; enjoy a boat ride on Lake Wakatipu, picnic in the hills, eat a romantic meal overlooking Queenstown, relax poolside at your accommodation, explore the city and the wineries, go for a helicopter ride for scenic view, indulgence in a spa treatment or get adventurous with hot air ballooning.
8. Catch an outdoor movie
During the summer in New Zealand, it is a must to visit one of the many outdoor cinemas. Nothing beats the relaxed, cosy and romantic experience of watching a movie under the stars. You and your special one can enjoy a romantic movie night on a warm summer evening accompanied by snacks, a brew or some wine. It’s the perfect idea for a casual date night! You will find outdoor cinemas all throughout New Zealand both in the North and South Island such as in Christchurch, Hastings or Auckland.
If you are renting a car during your holiday, we recommend visiting one of New Zealand’s many Drive-In Cinemas in Wellington or Auckland.
9. Stroll hand in hand
From amazing coastlines to waterfalls to bush and beaches, New Zealand is really a natural wonderland. Take your partner on a romantic experience that they will never forget. No matter your fitness level, there are many options for a romantic hike in and around New Zealand.
From coastal walks to rain forest trails and ancient glaciers, New Zealand has it all. Explore the North or South Island by foot and discover the amazing landscape, unique wildlife and rich history. You will find hikes from just 30 minutes up to 3 hours, depending on what suits you.
We recommend the Kura Tawhiti Access Track in Christchurch, Canterbury. The Lake Gunn Nature Walk in Fiordland or the Cathedral Cove Walk in the Coromandel. For more information or inspiration for your romantic hike, check out these hikes!
10. Stay at a TOP 10 Holiday Parks
To make your holiday even more remarkable stay at one of TOP 10’s many holiday parks. Every year TOP 10 helps visitors in New Zealand create long lasting memories together. We offer accommodation in the most remarkable places all across New Zealand. You will be guaranteed a warm welcome no matter where you choose to stay and whether you are looking for the ultimate Kiwi camping experience, motel or a cabin stay. TOP 10 offers accommodation that suits you and your partners’ needs for a romantic holiday!
Ready to get planning for your holiday? Book a stay at TOP 10 for your romantic getaway over New Year’s. The team will look forward to welcoming you and celebrating the New Year’s. We wish you all the best in 2020!