Best Romantic Walks on New Zealand’s South Island

New Zealand walks don’t have to be hikes and treks. When knowing the right places to go for short and easy walks in New Zealand there’s plenty of choice, especially on the beautiful (and arguably better) South Island. For those lovebirds looking for a peaceful South Island escape there’s nowhere better than what NZ has to offer. Luckily anywhere you go will be pretty quiet and mostly people-free, making the South Island the perfect destination for a romantic walk!

Hammer springs

Did someone say spa? Yes, this small alpine town is nestled in the mountains and boasts soothing hot spring pools and fine dining to ensure relaxation and indulgence. Easy walks nearby and around the town are sure to work up an appetite!

 

Godley Head

For the history-loving couples Godley Head will be an ideal break from the busy city nearby. Take a stroll along the dramatic coastline just a short drive up the hill from Christchurch for a unique date idea!

 

Port Hills

What better way to woo your beau than with outstanding landscape views? With a 360 sweep across Christchurch you’ll be able to impress your date by spotting the mountains in the distance, and name the beautiful volcanic bays emerging from the ocean.

 

Arthur’s Pass

Walks such as Bridal Veil Falls (hint hint?) and Devil’s Punchbowl Falls just ooze romance. If you want to capture the perfect romantic moment you’ll be spoilt for choice with the various viewpoints making Arthur’s Pass an Instagrammer’s dream.

 

Taylor’s Mistake

Couples love a beach break, right? Splash about in the charming bay of Taylor’s Mistake to show off your aquatic prowess. A quieter beach than Sumner or New Brighton, you can access by car or walking and once your arrive you’ll be glad to cool off from the scorching heat of an NZ summer with a dip in the playful waves.

 

Hokitika Gorge

Gorge-ous puns aside, who could resist this stunning spot on a romantic road trip? A short walk to the view point across a swinging bridge will take you to the picturesque lookout. The coveted Hokitika Gorge photo is the ideal date keepsake after clambering over rocks to take the best snaps.

 

Akakroa

Looking for that quintessentially romantic French vibe? Look no further! New Zealand has the perfect place for a bit of European ambiance in the form of Akaroa and the surrounding areas of Banks Peninsula. Take a short but steep walk up Onawe Peninsula to work up an appetite for cheese tasting and wine at a nearby vineyard!

 

Hokitika beach

What’s more romantic than a walk hand in hand along the beach? Skip stones, surf, and show your love by making your own couples’ driftwood sculpture!

 

Abel Tasman

Take a water taxi to a remote bay such as the Pithead Track to Te Pukatea and enjoy a winding walk through the trees to eventually be met by stunning views across the Cook Strait. A perfect picnic spot, and you might even spot some seals on the boat ride over!

 

Lake Tekapo

Enjoy a casual stroll arm in arm up Mount John as you bask in views across the lakeside mountains before star gazing during a visit to Lake Tekapo. I’ll leave the cheesy lines to you!

 

Kelvin Heights

Who doesn’t love a sunset walk? Enjoy a unique perspective of The Remarkables from this forest walk while the sun goes down to round off a romantic evening.

What are your favourite romantic walks in New Zealand? Still stuck for New Zealand date ideas? Here are my top things to do in Canterbury, a budget-friendly Auckland itinerary and what to do with a week in Queenstown – all featuring some of the best picnic spots in NZ!

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