TALE OF THE WHALE RIDER

Start of your honeymoon by flying into Auckland and enjoying a scenic helicopter ride to the pretty island of Waiheke. This idyllic, rural and secluded spot is perfect for incurable romantics. As well as beautiful beaches to explore, you can browse the art galleries and sample the olive oil from the olive groves and the wines at the world-class vineyards. The Boatshed sits above the sparkling waters of Little Oneroa Beach, and you can enjoy the panoramic ocean views from your private deck. Build up your appetite for a fresh seafood platter by walking around the clifftops or along the deserted beaches. If you can drag yourself away, or need a dose of city culture, hop on the ferry to explore the buzzing downtown area and waterfront of Auckland, and go up the Sky Tower for panoramic city views.

From one idyllic setting to another – Kaikoura sits on the east coast of the South Island and is a favourite haunt of whales and dolphins. Spot them on a cruise or swim with the dolphins, and enjoy scenic walking trails around the coast and in the Seaward Kaikoura mountains – stop at a scenic lookout to enjoy a delicious picnic. Manakau Lodge is nestled in acres of Manuka groves just outside Kaikoura. Embark on a wilderness walk from the doorstep, or venture underground into the magical Maori Leap Cave, a limestone karst cave full of stalactites and stalagmites, and on your return, relax on the veranda with a glass of local wine and tuck into the local speciality - crayfish.

The adventure capital of Queenstown offers every possible heart-pumping, adrenaline-fuelled activity you could ask for, from bungee jumping to jetboating, or how about a tandem skydive?! Enjoy mountaintop dining accompanied by panoramic views of the city lights, and take a leisurely and impossibly scenic cruise on the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Remarkables.   The luxurious Azur Lodge sits on a private hilltop just outside Queenstown, and has just nine secluded villas, allowing you to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the views.

The Bay of Islands is one of our favourite spots in New Zealand, offering numerous beautiful beaches, secluded bays and hidden island retreats (there are over 140 islands here). Spend a day on a deserted island, having it all to yourself, take your pick of the many gourmet restaurants in stunning locations, and enjoy a sunset cruise with a glass of champagne. We also recommend visiting the nearby Mahinepua conservation reserve and enjoying beautiful views over the sea.