How to Elope in New Zealand

I’m so happy you are here! That means you are thinking of eloping in the most beautiful country in the world! New Zealand is the truly is a special place that I believe everyone needs to explore. I can full heartedly say that you will never regret eloping in New Zealand and you’ll forever be obsessed with this country. I can brag about the beauty of this island for days and I’m so excited you to have the adventure of a lifetime and elope in New Zealand.

Ready to start planning? Well here’s your full guide on how to elope in New Zealand!

Table of contents: How to Elope in New Zealand

• Why you should elope in New Zealand
• How to travel to New Zealand
• When to elope in New Zealand
• Best places to elope in New Zealand
• How to legally get married in New Zealand
• How to travel around in New Zealand
• Where to stay in New Zealand
• Activities to include in your elopement
• A full packing list for your elopement
• Meet your New Zealand elopement photographer
• New Zealand elopement packages

Why You Should Elope in New Zealand

Eloping in New Zealand offers an unparalleled opportunity for adventurous couples seeking a truly unique and intimate experience. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes—from towering mountains to cascading waterfalls—this stunning destination provides the perfect backdrop for couples who value nature, exploration, and creating unforgettable memories. Lord of the Rings fans you will be in heaven! Whether hiking through national parks, flying in a helicopter, or simply enjoying the serene beauty, New Zealand aligns with the adventurous spirit of couples who want a wedding day that reflects their boldness, authenticity, and deep connection.

I took a month long trip here back in February of 2020 when I was solely focused on landscape photography. I can full heartedly say this place changed my life and inspires every part of my passion for photography to explore the vast natural beauty of our world. To now help couples have this same experience on their wedding day and photograph it for them is an absolute dream.

How to Travel To New Zealand

New Zealand isn’t a hard country to travel to but be prepared for a long journey. It’s minimum 20 hours of travel to get here but it’s so worth it. Most flights aren’t direct and will likely layover in Los Angeles or some other major city. I highly recommend binging the Lord of the Rings series to kill time and get you hyped for your adventure ahead. Most flights will likely land in Auckland (North Island) and then you can fly to the South Island from there or rent a car and explore. You can always ferry between the islands.

Note: You have to apply for a visa before you fly to New Zealand or you won’t be able to enter the country. You’ll also need your passport. You can apply for your NZeTA here or go download the NZeTA app on your phone to apply for it. It cost $17 and will take up to 72 hours to process. This will allow you to stay up to 3 months.

Note: New Zealand is very cautious about protecting their natural habitat. They will inspect all the outdoor gear you bring into the country. Please be sure to make sure all your gear is free of any dirt, debris, mud, or anything else. Otherwise it could get confiscated.

When to Elope in New Zealand

If you didn’t know New Zealand’s seasons are opposite from ours in North America. New Zealand summers are during our winters. So it’s the perfect place to escape the cold if you want to elope in the winter to somewhere warm and beautiful. Here’s a breakdown of New Zealand’s seasons and what they will look like for your elopement.

Summer: (December-February)

New Zealand summers are a stunning blend of long, sun-filled days and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking mountains and swimming in crystal-clear waters. With its vibrant landscapes, summer in New Zealand offers the ideal backdrop for unforgettable experiences in nature.

Fall: (March-May)

Fall in New Zealand is a breathtaking season, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold painting the landscape as the days grow crisp and cool. It’s a time of tranquility, perfect for exploring the country’s rugged mountains and serene beaches, offering a peaceful escape amidst nature’s stunning transformation.

Winter: (June-August)

Winter in New Zealand brings a magical chill, transforming the landscape into a wonderland of snow-capped mountains and misty valleys. It’s the perfect season for skiing, cozy retreats, and experiencing the country’s rugged beauty in a quieter, more serene atmosphere.

Spring: (September-November)

Spring in New Zealand is a time of renewal, with vibrant blooms and lush greenery emerging across the country’s diverse landscapes. The mild temperatures and longer days make it the ideal season for outdoor adventures, from hiking in the mountains to exploring coastal trails, as nature comes alive in every corner. Keep in mind a lot of locations in New Zealand will be off limits due to lambing season.

Which Season Do I Recommend

The best month to elope completely depends on the experience you want to have. But if you ask me I’d tell you early December is incredible if you are dreaming of fields full of lupines, snow capped mountains, and endless adventure. The last couple weeks in February are perfect as well as summer winds down and the crowds begin to fade. The weather during these times is extremely comfortable.

Best Places to Elope in New Zealand

The Two Islands of New Zealand

If you didn’t know New Zealand is split between the North Island and the South Island. They are very different from one another and you’ll have a way different experience depending on where you want to go.

The North Island of New Zealand

The North Island of New Zealand is a diverse mixture of volcanic mountains, ancient mossy forests, lush waterfalls, beautiful beaches, desert sand dunes in the far north, and rolling green hills full of agriculture. Theres really only two places to see mountains here and that’s Tongariro National Park and Mount Taranaki. It’s also home to the famous Hobbiton for my fellow LOTR fans, which I highly recommend exploring.

Here are my favorite places for you to explore on the North Island:

1. Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park will leave you speechless. The volcanic mountain landscapes here are breathtaking and there’s so many hiking trails to explore. From stunning waterfalls to epic mountain hikes you’ll be impressed. There’s tons of places to either camp at or get a hotel within the park. I highly recommend doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Here’s a few landscape photos I took during my trip to New Zealand from Tongariro National Park:

2. Cathedral Cove

If you love beaches than Cathedral Cove is the place for you. This place is straight out of a fairytale (quite literally). The Chronicles of Narnia helped make this place famous. It’s beauty is unmatched and a must see when visiting the North Island. The best part is it’s a fairly close drive to Auckland, the main city of the North Island.

Wait til you see the photos below why you must visit this beach!

3. Mt. Taranaki/Egmont National Park

Mount Taranaki looks identical to Mt. Fuiji is Japan. Although you can view this beautiful volcanic mountain from multiple locations, I highly recommend hiking up to the Poukai Tarns. This is definitely for the more adventurous couples. There’s a mountain hut to sleep overnight up at this location so you can stay for sunset and sunrise (it’s so worth it). I met some wonderful people doing this exact thing and had an incredible experience.

4. Piha Beach

A very popular beach for people to day trip, camp at, and surf. This stunning black sand beach has an incredible rock formation that is very prominent know as Lion Rock. It’s a volcanic monolith with war memorials and Maori carvings. There’s also amazing tropical forests and waterfalls in the area to explore.

5. Three Sisters and The Elephant Rock

My final recommendation for epic locations on the North Island is this beautiful black sand beach with incredible sea stack rock formations. The sea is slowly claiming them as Elephant Rock lost its trunk back in 2016 and there use to be Four Sisters at one point. During low tide you can walk right up to these rock formations and even explore sea caves.

The South Island of New Zealand

1. Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park

Hands down one of my favorite places in all of New Zealand. The mountains are absolutely epic here. The glacial lakes are the bluest you will ever see in your life. Icebergs can be found in Tasman Lake and Hooker Lake. Endless hiking to unbelievable locations start here and during the spring and early summer months, lupines are blooming all around the area. It’s a place you won’t want to miss.

There’s lodging within the park that’s minimal otherwise you’ll have to stay in the small town of Twizel about an hour outside of the park. Lake Pukaki is a beautiful stop at the base of the park as you drive in.

2. Milford Sound/Fiordland National Park

Milford Sound has been deemed the 8th Wonder of the World for a good reason. This place is straight out of a fantasy world. With grand mountain ranges, dense forests, and alpine lakes, Fiordland National Park is home to some of the most beautiful untouched places in the world. Whether you want to hike to explore, take a boat cruise and explore by ocean, or a helicopter flight to easily access untouched places, you’ll have an epic adventure here. Make sure to book lodging in advance if you plan to stay within the park. It’s very remote and there’s limited options.

Unfortunately I had a 3 night stay planned here on my trip but the road was washed out from flooding so I never made it. It’s a dream of mine to go back and see this otherworldly location.

3. Queenstown

Queenstown is the perfect hub to adventure from if you’re looking for a place with tons of amenities and activities. With towering mountains and lakeside locations there’s so many places to explore. You can also have for luxury hotel and dining options here along with wild activities like skydiving, go carting down a mountain, jet boat cruises, bungee jumping, and tons more. If you want a mix of adventure and the luxury of the city then this is the perfect spot for you.

4. Wanaka

Wanaka is perhaps most famous for The Wanaka tree that sits in the bay. But it’s also a bustling town full of adventure. With Mount Aspiring National Park close by and tons of hikes, it’s the perfect hub for adventure. Wanaka compares directly to Queenstown but with a smaller town feel. You won’t regret your time here. They also offer tons of activities like skydiving, hiking, canyoning, mountaineering, jet boating, fishing, and more.

5. Lake Tekapo

Are you looking for tons of lupines surrounding those glacial blue waters with mountains in the background? Then you need to explore the shores of Lake Tekapo. You will feel like you’re in a romantic fairytale dancing around in fields of purple. It’s also part of the dark sky reserve and offers some of the best stargazing you will see. I highly recommend checking out the Church of the Good Shepherd while here. It’s a unique and historic church with a stunning backdrop.

6. Mt. Sunday Lookout

Perhaps one of my favorite locations I visited. This valley is far away from the crowds and completely surrounded by epic mountain views. Mt. Sunday is where the town of Rohan was filmed for the Lord of the Rings lovers. It’s the perfect place to explore some beautiful lakes hidden from the crowds and also enjoy the mountains with only the sounds of nature around you.

How To Legally Get Married in New Zealand

As a US citizen you can luckily get legally married in New Zealand. However there are two options you can go about this.

1. Legal Marriage

If you want to legally get married in New Zealand, the ceremony must be performed by a New Zealand citizen that is a legal marriage celebrant. Two witnesses are required to sign your marriage license as well. You must apply for your marriage license online and provide the proper paperwork. Then fill out all the information needed. You can access all that here. It will cost $150 NZD and must be applied for at least 3 working days before your ceremony. It will expire after 3 months.

2. Symbolic Marriage

I’m a huge fan of the symbolic marriage… There is a lot less stress in planning, a lot less forms, and the legality of it is such a small part of your day you’re bound to not even miss signing a piece of paper. Get married in your state however you wish and then have a symbolic ceremony during your international elopement. You get to choose which wedding day is truly yours to celebrate and not the legal paperwork. Don’t let this hold you back from planning an international elopement.

How to Travel Around New Zealand

Rent A Car

Whether you decide on a car or a camper van, this will be the best way for you to explore New Zealand. You’ll be able to see so much of New Zealand and completely immerse yourself in its beauty. As long as you have a driver’s license you can rent a car. Also note that they drive on the right side of the road in New Zealand so you’re prepared before you leave.

Take A Helicopter

If you have never experienced a helicopter flight than there’s no better time to do it then on your elopement day in New Zealand. Instead of having to put a lot of work into hiking to your location where you might have crowds, you can take a helicopter flight to some of the most epic locations you’ll ever see in your life. Imagine having alpine lakes, glaciers, mountain tops, and waterfalls all to yourself. You might even be able to make more than one landing. It will truly be an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. If you ever wanted to experience a helicopter flight, then your New Zealand elopement would be the best time to do it!

Where to Stay in New Zealand

Airbnbs

New Zealand has some of the most incredible Airbnb options you’ll find in the world. Whether you are looking for some for just the two of you or a place for a handful of family and friends to join you. You can find anything from an apartment to a private house.

Hotels

You can find a variety of hotel options depending on where you want to stay in New Zealand. If you’re looking for a more luxurious hotel option I highly recommend looking into places like Queenstown or Wanaka.

Campervan

Perhaps my favorite way to explore New Zealand is by camper van. If you want full freedom to explore the country and have the luxury of your bed right there with you then this is it. You can find all sorts of amazing campsite around New Zealand to park up at. I highly recommend download the Rankers Camping NZ app before your trip so you can find all the best campsites wherever you want to go.

Activities to Include in Your Elopement

Are you wondering what to do to make your elopement extra special? There’s honestly an endless amount for the truly adventurous couples. Here’s a full list of ideas to get you started.

• Take a helicopter flight
• Hike to an epic location
• Explore Milford Sound
• Take a boat cruise in Milford Sound
• Go on a tour in Hobbiton
• Find famous Lord of the Rings locations
• Skydiving
• Bungee jumping
• Take a jet boat ride
• Ride horses
• Take a ride on a seaplane
• Soak in hot springs or a mud bath
• Explore different beaches
• Hike through ancient forests
• Visit a glacier
• See the glow worm cave
• Go waterfall canyoneering
• Ziplining
• Go on a multi day backpacking trip
• Stay in a mountain hut overnight at an epic location
• Visit a winery
• Go see a volcano
• Learn about the Maori culture
• Whale watching on a boat
• Kayaking
• Visit the many different lighthouses

A Full Packing List for Your New Zealand Elopement

You’re going to need to be prepared for your adventurous New Zealand elopement. Even during the summer months it can be cool exploring the mountains and in certain locations can rain a lot. Here’s a list of items you should pack.

• Passport, driver’s license, and other ID you need
• Light puffy jacket, rain jacket, and lightweight layered clothing
• Hiking boots and plenty of socks
• Water bottle
• Snacks for flight
• Headlamps
• Sentimental items for your elopement
• Vow books
• Wedding rings
• Light gloves
• Dress pants, suit jacket, belt, pocket square, and anything you want to wear
• Wedding dress, earrings, necklace, leggings for under dress
• Marriage license (if applicable)
• Bathing suits for hot springs
• Light gloves/hand warmers

Meet Your New Zealand Elopement Photographer

Hey, I’m Marcus! I’ll be your go to resource for all your New Zealand elopement planning. I traveled to New Zealand for the first time in 2020 when I was only doing landscape photography. I spent a whole month traveling around the country covering everywhere from the North Island to the South Island. Instantly I fell in love with the dramatic and diverse landscapes this country offered. New Zealand will forever hold a special place in my heart.

I learned so many tips and tricks on how to make an unforgettable experience here. I know so many incredible locations including ones that are hidden from all the crowds. I’ll help you plan an adventure of a lifetime and come prepared with back up plans as well just in case bad weather happens. New Zealand truly changed my life and gave me the best experiences and memories. I believe every couple should have a similar experience on their elopement day and if you believe that’s New Zealand then I can’t wait to help make that happen!

New Zealand Elopement Packages

Let’s make your New Zealand elopement process easy so you can have an epic adventure!

Having been to New Zealand before and explored all over the beautiful country, I know how to create a day that is full of epic adventures and photos. I’ll create a full timeline for you so you don’t have to worry about planning any logistics. I’ll be your go to resource for everything. Just tell me what your dream day looks like and we’ll collaborate on creating an unforgettable elopement. I also include back up plans just incase the weather decides to get crazy.

My all-inclusive New Zealand elopement packages are created with all this in mind! The packages include – all day photo coverage, timeline and location planning, vendor recommendations, optional videography add on, and all of my travel fees to New Zealand!

Full day and multi day packages available. Pricing starts at $8500!

If you’re ready to work together, fill out my inquiry form below or get in contact with me here.

You can also visit my New Zealand Elopement Photographer page for more info.

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You can also checkout these blogs. Top 10 Places in the World To Elope, Yosemite National Park Elopement, and Glacier National Park Elopement.