A romantic getaway in Invercargill

Invercargill may not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, but we promise you: this place has something exciting for the both of you! Whether you like to explore the outdoors or enjoy city life, you can find it all here within just minutes of each other.

Day 1

Arrive in Invercargill and take some time to admire the amazing colourful murals that you can be found all around the CBD. And what better way to start your romantic weekend together than with a good old date at the movies? Reading Cinemas in Invercargill even got very relaxing recliners to get extra comfy. So pick a movie, sit back and enjoy your popcorn.

The afternoon is yours to fill in and whatever you like to do together, Invercargill’s got your covered. The cinema is right inside the brand-new mall in Invercargill City with plenty of food options for a delicious meal or maybe go for some (ring?!💍) shopping. Take a trip down memory lane at Bill Richardson Transport World, where they have the largest private collection of vintage vehicles in the world. Put your relationship to the test and try to crack codes and solve clues in one of the escape rooms of Solve It and Escape. Or go for a romantic stroll in one of the many parks you can find in and around town, such as Queens Park, Anderson Park or Otepuni Gardens. If you’re up for a bigger challenge you can go for a short drive to Bluff and walk up Bluff Hill Motupōhue to enjoy stunning views over Foveaux Strait and the Southland Plains.

As the day comes to an end it’s time for a romantic dinner for two. Enjoy elegant private dining at Meld, where they serve culinary Asian fusion inspired dishes that are perfect to share with your partner. They have great vegetarian and vegan options as well!

Head upstairs to the top floor of The Langlands Hotel to end your night at 360, the hotel's very own cocktail bar. As this hotel is your accommodation for the night you don’t have to walk far to get to your room, so try out the many delicious cocktails while enjoying the views over the city. On a clear day you can even see Stewart Island. When it’s time to call it a day, a comfy bed is waiting for you just minutes (if not seconds) away.

Day 2

After yesterday’s activities, today is all about relaxing. Sleep in and take your time before heading to Queens Park for a lovely picnic or take your pick from one of the many cafes in town to go for brunch, such as Industry or The Batch Cafe. Treat yourselves to a relaxing couples massage at Beauty & Beyond Urban Retreat or The Beauty Bach or enjoy a hot tub session together at Longridge Estate Hot Tub. Ten minutes from Invercargill, you will find the Otatara Fern and Feather Retreat. This private, peaceful sanctuary offers dual outdoor baths, where you and your other half can soak amongst native bush with bird songs from tūī, kererū and fantails in the background. With a nectar bird feeder nearby, you even have the chance to observe them in close proximity from the comfort of your warm bath. The luxury couples' massages at the retreat using hot stones (or not, if that's your preference) increase the warmth to your muscles helping hasten relief and deepen the relaxation. Extra treats like heat packs and electric blankets will maximise your 'feel good' experience. 

While you’re feeling all relaxed and cosy we suggest getting your favourite takeaways and taking it down to Oreti Beach. It’s one of the only beaches in New Zealand that vehicles are allowed to drive on so you don’t even have to leave your car, but you may feel brave enough to go for a refreshing dip in the ocean. Snuggle up inside and wait for the show to begin, starting off with a beautiful sunset. Once the sun has set an endless canvas of stars is scattered across the sky and the galaxy of wonders is unfolding above you. You might even get a front-row seat for the greatest natural light show on Earth, as the Aurora Australis/Southern Lights throws out spectacular sheets of purple, green, yellow, and blue light that dance silently across the night sky in a symphony of colour.

You can’t ask for a more romantic spot for a proposal, just saying…