The ultimate luxury honeymoon: Cook Islands and New Zealand

The perfect luxury honeymoon awaits you; explores the best of New Zealand combined with its tropical neighbors in the South Pacific – the Cook Islands. Promising the perfect romantic escape, steeped in luxury, the combination of two iconic and cherished travel destinations combines two of the most picturesque locations in the world. New Zealand and Rarotonga each have their own unique cultural identities, but it is said that their culture emerged from a journey involving Maori migrations to New Zealand, starting from Rarotonga as early as the 5th century AD.

The Cook Islands in the South Pacific are the most stunning vacation destinations for family fun, a romantic escape or a getaway – with up-and-coming luxury accommodations, dining and activities. The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands, which are close together and each offer their guests something unique and beautiful. New Zealand is just a short flight away and would end the honeymoon without a hitch, with a combination of romantic experiences and inspiring landscapes.

The accessibility of the Cook Islands has improved over the past year. Now if you’re coming from the United States, flights to Rarotonga are available from Honolulu, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles and New York. Now travel to the Cook Islands is much more accessible and should be more widely known; paradise is now easier to reach!

The Cook Islands

You’ll start your journey by arriving in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, which offers a range of experiences and destinations to suit the interests of any traveler. Here’s a look at a few must-see experiences and destinations.

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is one of the best known islands within the Cook Islands and offers a large number of luxurious 5-star beach resorts spread along its sandy coastline. Rarotonga is the perfect place to explore the local culture, visit the Sunday markets and explore the varied terrain, which offers a mix of lush forests and blue sandy beaches.

Highlights

• Punanga Nui Market and Muri Night Markets – experience authentic local culture and taste your way through Rarotonga.
• Experience luxury – stay at one of the many luxury 5-star beachfront resorts Rarotonga has to offer.

Aitutaki Island

Aitutaki Island is one of the islands that make up the Cook Islands, surrounded by reefs and home to the iconic lagoon. The destination is perfect for travelers who want to spend time in the water, with snorkeling, kitesurfing, lagoon cruises and more; this island promises an exciting combination of excitement and tropical relaxation.

Highlights

• Explore the Lagoon: The iconic lagoon has some of the bluest waters and white sandy beaches, promising the ultimate tropical experience. Take a luxurious private lagoon tour for the ultimate experience and end the day sunbathing on the pristine white sands.
• Snorkeling in a Marine Reserve: Experience some of the best snorkeling in a protected marine reserve, the marine life is thriving and vibrant.

Also known as the Island of Birds, Atiu Island is home to an abundance of treasured wildlife. Known for being perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the island offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore ancient limestone caves.

Highlights

• Birdwatching: The island is home to the rare Kokako bird and Aitu Swiftlet, offering a unique opportunity to experience the local wildlife up close.
• Cave Tours: Atiu is home to ancient limestone caves, which attract travelers around the world, most of whom are familiar with Anatakitaki Cave, where guests can see local wildlife and witness the impressive ecosystem the caves are home to.

A short flight to New Zealand

Now, just a four-hour flight away, you’ll arrive in central Otago, New Zealand’s South Island, home to the iconic Queenstown, Wanaka and Cromwell. Central Otago is known for its romantic setting and picturesque landscapes; offers an abundance of experiences and activities for every tourist.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Celebrated as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is known as one of the country’s most stunning destinations, built around Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Remarkables and Walter Peak.

Highlights

• Thrill seekers, this is the place for you, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and there is no end to the offerings. Fancy whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, ziplining or skydiving? Queenstown has it all.
• Take a helicopter ride over Earnslaw Burn and see active glaciers, dramatic waterfalls and the slopes of the mountain ranges, this is a truly unique experience not to be missed.
• In addition to adventure, Queenstown offers a range of slower activities, such as cruising the Milford Sounds or exploring nearby trails like the Arrowtown River Trail.

Wanaka, New Zealand

Wanaka is known as a nature lover’s paradise here in New Zealand and attracts people from all over the world. Wanaka is the perfect destination for hiking, skiing, wine tasting and experiencing the local charm.

Highlights

• Stargazing – the night sky is a sight to behold, but this location offers some of the darkest skies in the world and you may even get the chance to witness the Aurora Australis.
• Walking and cycling: Wanaka offers a range of iconic walking and cycling experiences, such as Haast Pass, Beacon Point and the Glendhu Bay route.

Fiordland, New Zealand

Fiordland is renowned for being home to some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring scenarios in the world, towering mountain ranges, deep valleys and home to a thriving biodiversity rainforest – the only landscape of its kind in the world, it is a must see for all travelers to New Zealand.

Highlights

• Take a kayak tour through the fjords, experience tranquility like no other and paddle your way through the etched water paths created by the mountain ranges.
• Dark and doubtful sound through the air; take a helicopter ride through the sounds. These are the largest and most famous fjords that are breathtaking and promise an unforgettable experience.

The combination of the tropical Cook Islands with New Zealand’s beautifully scenic South Island promises the perfect honeymoon and luxury travel experience. With new accessible flights departing from the US, this honeymoon could be more than just a dream. Tell us about your honeymoon, we’d love to hear some of your adventures.

Veronica Vermeulen

Veronika Vermeulen is director of Aroha New Zealand Tours Ltd. Aroha New Zealand Tours Ltd. has been offering 100% tailor-made tours and privately guided luxury experiences in New Zealand since 2000.