Eloping in New Zealand: The Complete Guide to an Epic Adventure
get married in
New Zealand?
are you wanting to
New Zealand has to be one of the most incredible countries in the world for an elopement, especially if you’re wanting to add a bit of adventure to your day!
From insanely breathtaking mountains, dreamy coastlines, lush rainforests and epic adventure activities, there is something for everyone!
Whether you dream of hiking to an epic view (or catching a helicopter there in true style), your New Zealand Elopement is bound to be as epic as your love story!
Why choose to elope in NEw Zealand?
let the adventure begin!
What to Consider When Eloping in New Zealand
A Legal Ceremony vs. A Symbolic Ceremony
A legal ceremony is exactly as the name suggests, it’s an official and legally-recognised marriage that is conducted with a celebrant and witnesses on the day of your elopement. (Don’t stress, if you don’t want to have anyone present on your elopement day, we can be your witnesses!)
On the other hand, a symbolic ceremony is a heartfelt expression of a couple’s love and commitment without a celebrant or any witnesses being present. This could be for a number of reasons, but couples that opt for a symbolic ceremony usually organise their marriage license before or after their elopement day, either through the help of a celebrant or by themselves online.
What’s the difference?
Legal Requirements for eloping in New Zealand
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old and not currently married or in a civil union.
- You'll need to submit a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) to a Registrar of Marriages at least three working days before your wedding date. This can be done up to three months in advance and is valid for three months.
- If you or your partner is from overseas, you may need to provide additional documents, such as evidence of dissolution of previous marriages or civil unions.
The Best Time of Year to Elope in New Zealand
- Coastal Regions: Winter brings cooler temperatures to coastal areas, typically ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Rainfall increases, creating a cozy atmosphere for indoor activities. Coastal towns offer quaint cafes, art galleries, and scenic drives along rugged coastlines, providing a relaxing backdrop for a winter elopement.
- Mountainous Areas: In the mountains, winter transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland with snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes. Temperatures drop significantly, ranging from -2°C to 10°C, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Winter elopements in the mountains are magical, with options for romantic chalets, hot springs, and breathtaking views under crisp, clear skies.
- Popular Activities: Skiing, whale watching, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, ice-caving/climbing, hot springs.
Winter (June - Aug)
- Coastal Regions: Warm to hot temperatures, with average highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C. In the North Island, the weather tends to be more subtropical.
- Mountainous Areas: Expect significantly cooler temperatures compared to the coast, ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Summer is ideal for those seeking epic adventure elopements amidst breathtaking mountain vistas. Take advantage of the extended sunlight for unforgettable outdoor activities like camping, hiking, kayaking, and waterfall explorations.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, bungee jumping, horse riding, helicopter rides, picnicking, swimming.
- Coastal Regions: Experience cooler temperatures with mild days and cool nights. The landscape begins to transform with bright, vibrant colors as trees change hues, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures and elopements. The weather remains comfortable for exploring and enjoying the scenic coastal beauty without being too cold.
- Mountainous Areas: Autumn brings cooler temperatures to mountainous regions, you can expect snow to start dusting the tops of the mountains towards the end of Autumn. The hillsides burst into a vibrant display of autumn colours, making it our favourite time of year for elopements!
- Popular Activities: Hiking, horse-riding, helicopter rides, star gazing, picnicking.
- Coastal Regions: As spring arrives, coastal areas gradually warm up with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Rainfall is scattered, and vibrant flowers begin to bloom, creating a colourful and picturesque backdrop. The weather is pleasant and mild, making it an ideal time for eloping amidst blooming gardens and enjoying the delightful spring atmosphere.
- Mountainous Areas: Spring brings the melting of snow, transforming the landscape into lush greenery and flowing streams. Temperatures start to rise from cool to mild as summer approaches. Springtime in the mountains is synonymous with wildflowers, adding bursts of color to the scenery. With warmer days and cool evenings, it’s the perfect season for hiking trails and discovering panoramic mountain lookouts, creating unforgettable moments for your elopement.
- Popular Activities: Biking, camping, picnicking, rafting.
Autumn (Mar - May)
Spring (Sept - Nov)
New zealand Adventure Elopement Activity Ideas
Some ideas to make your Elopement truly epic!
Adventure Activity Ideas
- Hiking
- Helicopter ride
- Horse riding
- Ice-caving
- Kayaking
- Snow shoeing
- Skiing
- Rafting
- Rock climbing/via ferrata
- Paddle boarding
One of our favourite things about New Zealand is the endless variety of outdoor activities you can do! We are big believers in making your day an experience. Your wedding day shouldn't be an all day photoshoot, it should be the best experience ever (and as a result you'll get epic photos!!).
So maybe there is something you love to do together on weekends, or something that you have always wanted to try... your elopement is the perfect day to have the best fun!
Relaxing Activity Ideas
- Getting ready
- Writing your vows
- Relaxing in a hot tub/sauna
- Picnic
- Exploring the town
- Visiting a cute cafe
- Making pancakes in your accomodation
- Snuggling by the fire
- Yacht/boating experience
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Ready to Start Planning Your New Zealand Elopement?
Let us help you craft the perfect experience for you!
get in touch with us
If you're captivated by culture, history, and a coastal lifestyle, the North Island is your go-to destination. On the other hand, if you're an enthusiast for outdoor adventures and dramatic landscapes, the South Island's mountains, glaciers, and fjords will surely impress you!
- Rich Maori cultural experiences, particularly in Rotorua and Waitangi.
- The geothermal wonders of Rotorua and Taupo.
- Vibrant city life in Auckland and Wellington, with numerous museums, galleries, and theatres.
- Stunning beaches and marine reserves, such as the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula.
- The majestic Southern Alps, perfect for skiing and mountaineering.
- Fiordland National Park, home to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.
- The adventure capital Queenstown, offering bungee jumping, skydiving, and more.
- The picturesque wine regions of Marlborough and Central Otago.
North Island VS South Island
found the one you love
You're here because you
South Island Highlights:
North Island Highlights:
Mount Cook National Park is hands down one of our all time favourite locations in New Zealand, and I’m sure you can see why! Home to the country's highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stunning reflective lakes like Lake Pukaki, it is truly a spectacular location for any photoshoot.
The park's glaciers, rugged trails, and pristine wilderness create the perfect backdrop for an intimate elopement adventure. Some of our favourite activities in the area include hiking and kayaking in the glacial lakes (yes you can kayak with icebergs!!).
Mount Cook National Park
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Located in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound offers a mesmerising blend of dramatic landscapes and serene beauty. Approximately a 4-hour drive from Queenstown, this breathtaking destination is not one to be missed!
You will feel as though you have stepped into another world when you exit the tunnel and are surrounded by an endless number of majestic mountains.
From the towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to the tranquil waters of the fjord, Milford Sound is one of our all time favourite places in the world.
Milford Sound is also an ideal place for a scenic cruise (where you can see dolphins and seals!), helicopter rides or even a kayaking adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings.
Milford Sound
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Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Alps, Wanaka is the perfect place to base your adventure. Approximately a 1-hour drive from Queenstown, Wanaka boasts numerous enchanting locations and activities perfect for your elopement.
From the serene shores of Lake Wanaka with its iconic lone tree, to the panoramic views atop Roy's Peak, this charming town is brimming with intimate elopement gems. Nearby, Lake Hawea also offers additional breathtaking scenery, while the majestic Mount Aspiring National Park provides stunning alpine landscapes and serene forests, ideal for an intimate ceremony.
Wanaka is also the perfect place to embark on a heli adventure, and we highly recommend using Wanaka Helicopters for your flight! Whether you seek the tranquillity of secluded forests or the awe-inspiring vistas of alpine landscapes, Wanaka provides a magical backdrop for your special day.
Wanaka
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Mount Aspiring National Park, located approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Wanaka, is a stunning location that isn’t always thought of when listing amazing locations in New Zealand but it is not to be overlooked!
From the snow-capped peaks and expansive glaciers to the lush valleys with crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls, Mount Aspiring National Park has so many hidden gem locations. The park's iconic Mount Aspiring, also known as Tititea, provides a majestic backdrop and will make your special day unforgettable.
Our favourite time of year in the park is Autumn when everything has turned golden! You’re also likely to be the only visitors in the whole park!
Mount Aspiring NAtional Park
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Often hailed as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is the perfect place to base your adventure. From serine beauty to exhilarating experiences, there is something here for everyone.
With its crystal-clear waters or Lake Wakatipu, and the panoramic views atop Bob's Peak, this vibrant town has no shortage of elopement locations. The moment you get of the plane you will be greeted by The Remarkables mountain range (which is definitely remarkable!) and the cute streets of Queenstown.
Queenstown is also ideal for a helicopter adventure, allowing you to reach remote and breathtaking locations with ease.
Another favourite of ours close to Queenstown is Glenorchy! It is absolutely stunning and has the most incredible horse riding opportunities so if you’re a horse lover, definitely add a horse trek adventure in Glenorchy to your adventure.
Queenstown
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If you dream of black sand beaches or stunning wineries, Auckland might be for you! New Zealand's largest city offers a diverse blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Easily accessible with direct flights from major international cities.
Enjoy the serene beaches of the Hauraki Gulf and the stunning vistas atop Mount Eden. The picturesque landscapes of Waiheke Island and the rolling vineyards of Kumeu provide a magical backdrop, ensuring your elopement is truly unforgettable.
Auckland also offers unique opportunities for adventure, such as sailing on the Waitemata Harbour or exploring the Waitakere Ranges.
Auckland
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Image Credit: Bookabach
The Coromandel Peninsula is a hidden gem renowned for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and natural beauty. Approximately a 2-hour drive from Auckland, this spot is a coastal paradise.
Picture saying 'I do" on the golden sands of Cathedral Cove and bathing in Hot Water Beach's natural hot springs... or the tranquil beauty of the Pinnacles Walk.
The Coromandel Peninsula also offers unique opportunities for adventure, such as kayaking through sea caves or exploring the lush forests of the Kauri Grove. Whether you seek the tranquillity of secluded coves or the awe-inspiring vistas of coastal cliffs, the Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect place for a unique elopement experience.
The Coromandel Peninsula
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Image Credit: New Zealand
Tongariro National Park, located in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its volcanic landscapes and stunning natural beauty. Approximately a 4-hour drive from Auckland, this iconic destination offers one of the most unique locations for an elopement.
From the iconic volcanic peaks of Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom in "The Lord of the Rings"), and Mount Ruapehu to the emerald lakes and alpine meadows of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the park is filled with intimate elopement spots.
Tongariro National Park also offers unique opportunities for adventure, such as hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or skiing on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu.
TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
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Image Credit: New Zealand
Your New Zealand elopement experts
We’re Rochelle and Linden, your dream elopement photographer/videographer and planners! We want your day to be an incredible adventure and are dedicated to helping you create your dream day.
New Zealand is one of our all time favourite countries in the world to not only visit for fun, but to capture love stories. We’re true mountain lovers so I’m sure you can understand why we love New Zealand so much!
Your New Zealand Elopement Photo/Video Team!
CONTACT
We're Rochelle and Linden! Your bff's on your elopement day!
Rochelle and Linden photographed our multi-day adventure vow renewal in the breathtaking locations of Milford Sound and Coromandel Peak in New Zealand, and we couldn't be more thrilled with the results!
From start to finish, Rochelle and Linden were an absolute delight to work with. They not only made us feel comfortable and at ease but also made the entire experience feel more like hanging out with friends! They ensured we had so much fun together throughout the entire process. Their professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail were evident in every shot.
When we saw the final results, they brought tears to our eyes. They are more than we could have ever hoped for – truly breathtaking! We will cherish these memories forever, thanks to Rochelle and Linden's incredible work.
We highly recommend them to anyone looking for exceptional photography and videography services. Their talent and passion shine through in every image!
Kind Words
Katerina + LUkas
If you're dreaming of an incredible adventure then New Zealand has it all! From amazing locations and never ending activities, there is something for everyone.
NEW ZEALAND
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
get in touch for availability and more info
Elopements & Vow Renewals
Our selection of packages is designed to cater to your desired experience, whether it's 4-hours of coverage or a multi-day adventure, we're here to capture it all!
We do not take bookings either side of your elopement. This is to give us flexibility if we need to change plans around weather and so that we can fully focus on you and your love story.
Photography only packages
videography only packages
Photo/video combo packages
get in touch for availability and more info
Elopements & Vow Renewals
Our selection of packages is designed to cater to your desired experience, whether it's 4-hours of coverage or a multi-day adventure, we're here to capture it all!
We do not take bookings either side of your elopement. This is to give us flexibility if we need to change plans around weather and so that we can fully focus on you and your love story.
Photography only packages
videography only packages
Photo/video combo packages
- Rochelle as your photographer
- Exclusive access to planning resources
- Vendor/accomodation recommendations (if required)
- Personalised location guide + timeline creation
- Sneak peek gallery
- Online gallery and slideshow
- Online print & album shop
- All travel costs included
4 Hours Starting at $4,200 AUD
If you're dreaming of an incredible adventure then New Zealand has it all! From amazing locations and never ending activities, there is something for everyone.
NEW ZEALAND
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
get in touch for availability and more info
Elopements & Vow Renewals
Our selection of packages is designed to cater to your desired experience, whether it's 4-hours of coverage or a multi-day adventure, we're here to capture it all!
We do not take bookings either side of your elopement. This is to give us flexibility if we need to change plans around weather and so that we can fully focus on you and your love story.
Photography only packages
videography only packages
Photo/video combo packages
- Linden as your videographer
- Exclusive access to planning resources
- Vendor/accomodation recommendations
- Personalised location guide + timeline creation
- Highlights video delivered via online platform
- Drone footage (weather permitting)
- All travel costs included
4 Hours Starting at $4,200 AUD
If you're dreaming of an incredible adventure then New Zealand has it all! From amazing locations and never ending activities, there is something for everyone.
NEW ZEALAND
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
get in touch for availability and more info
Elopements & Vow Renewals
Our selection of packages is designed to cater to your desired experience, whether it's 4-hours of coverage or a multi-day adventure, we're here to capture it all!
We do not take bookings either side of your elopement. This is to give us flexibility if we need to change plans around weather and so that we can fully focus on you and your love story.
Photography only packages
videography only packages
Photo/video combo packages
- Rochelle as your photographer
- Linden as your videographer
- Exclusive access to planning resources
- Vendor/accomodation recommendations
- Personalised location guide + timeline creation
- Sneak peek gallery
- Online gallery and slideshow
- Online print & album shop
- Highlights video delivered via online platform
- Drone footage (weather permitting)
- All travel costs included
4 Hours Starting at $7,500 AUD
If you're dreaming of an incredible adventure then New Zealand has it all! From amazing locations and never ending activities, there is something for everyone.
NEW ZEALAND
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Let us capture all of your memories so that you can treasure them forever!
Ready to create magic?
Need more info/inspiration to plan your New Zealand Elopement?
We've got the resources & we're here to help!
click to check out the blog!
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need help to plan your elopment?
Make sure to DOWNLOAD our Elopement Planning Checklist so that you can start planning the day of your dreams! We would love nothing more than to help you on this next adventure so if you need anything at all, please send us an email to rochelle@lovewilder.co or send us a DM on Instagram! @lovewilder.co
If you're looking for more information about eloping, make sure to check out this blog for Designing Your Dream Elopement or this one How To Tell Your Family You're Eloping.
Whether you have your day mapped out, or you have no clue where to begin, we would love to hear from you!