Romance & Relaxation in Fiordland

Prepare to embark on a captivating and romantic journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland. This remarkable destination boasts some of the most spectacular natural vistas in the world, featuring towering peaks, tranquil fiords, and lush forests. Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat or an indulgent weekend escape, you'll find the perfect itinerary to immerse yourself in the beauty of this extraordinary place.

Day 1

Te Anau

Arrive in Te Anau or Manapouri and take some time to explore these tranquil lakeside towns. One of the most impressive ways to appreciate the location is to get out on the water. Book a trip out on Lake Te Anau this afternoon or a river experience on the Waiau River. Take a cruise on Lake Te Anau with a champagne and canapé option, or book a river trip, including a private picnic in a remote wilderness location. Getting out on the water is sure to impress and the perfect way to set the scene for your getaway.

There are a number of luxury lodges and boutique accommodation options in and around Fiordland, they offer world-class service and world-class views! Book a luxurious stay overlooking Lake Manapouri, Lake Te Anau, Fiordland National Park or a picturesque rural setting. Most lodges include a restaurant or dining service, so book in and enjoy the quality of New Zealand cuisine.

Find a good spot to watch the sunset and marvel as the evening light puts on a spectacular show as it sets behind the mountain ranges of Fiordland. Grab a blanket and settle in for some serious stargazing in Fiordland’s clear skies.

Day 2

High on Life

A great day for a proposal to rekindle an old flame or celebrate an anniversary. Today, it’s time to impress your loved one with a scenic flight over Fiordland National Park. From above, Fiordland reveals its immense size and hidden gems. From a plane, helicopter or floatplane, take in the glaciers, rivers, islands and lakes of this World Heritage site. Head further into the untouched paradise of Fiordland National Park for a glacier landing or perhaps a landing on a secluded peak for lunch where nothing else seems important except this exact moment.

Options for special scenic flights include mystery flights, heli hikes, bespoke romantic charters and secluded picnics.

Treat yourself to a massage or a spa on your return to Te Anau. and carry out the good feelings with a private table at Te Anau’s special dining experiences like Redcliff or Fiordland Lodge.

Day 3

The Sound of Silence

Pack an overnight bag, as today it’s all about sailing away together into the sunset! An overnight cruise on Patea Doubtful Sound or Piopiotahi Milford Sound is the ultimate indulgence and romance. Within the fiords, the outside world seems a million miles away, and there is nothing to do except relax and connect.

Choose an overnight cruise or a private charter and get away from it all for a night. Overnight cruises include options for diving or kayaking in the fiord and catching a fish for dinner. You can also enjoy the “sound of silence” as the day cruise boats finish up for the day, and the serenity of the fiord is all yours.

Day 4

Adventurous Escape

Escape the crowds, disconnect from civilisation, and don’t worry about the time! Throw a blanket, a picnic lunch, a book, a camera and maybe even a fishing rod in the car and head off on an adventure. Pick a spot on a map and start exploring. The Southern Scenic Route and the Milford Road offer countless places to explore short walks and beautiful viewpoints. Lesser-visited spots include the Mavora Lakes or the Borland Valley. These are all perfect destinations to get lost in the beauty of your surroundings.

Alternatively, you could organise to do one of the adventures above as a private tour with a local guide. Guided experiences are a perfect way to access incredible places with a local expert who can share their knowledge on the native wildlife, local history, flora and fauna.

Tonight, head to the cinema for a glass of local wine and watch either Ata Whenua or Deer Wars at the boutique Fiordland Cinema. Tonight, you could enjoy one of Te Anau’s many takeaway options for dinner and take it down to the lakefront for a romantic sunset evening meal. You may even feel brave enough to jump in the lake for an invigorating dip.

Day 5

Take it Easy

Sleep in, take your time to pack up and head into town to enjoy a late breakfast or brunch. Stay a little longer to explore and stroll. If you haven’t taken the drive to Manapouri, this is the perfect time to do so. Head to Fraser’s Beach for a beautiful view of Lake Manapouri’s many islands. If you prefer to stay in Te Anau, take an easy 15-minute walk along the lakefront to Punanga Manu o Te Anau Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Managed by the Department of Conservation, the bird sanctuary is home to many endangered birds who have been injured or are involved in breeding programmes. The most famous inhabitant at the bird sanctuary is the takahē. The takahē is a large, flightless native New Zealand bird thought to have been extinct for more than forty years before being rediscovered in the mountains of Fiordland in 1948. The takahē project is one of Fiordland’s greatest conservation success stories.