New Zealand—a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventure. For newlyweds seeking the perfect post-wedding getaway, this island nation offers a tapestry of experiences blending romance, relaxation, and excitement. Who better to guide you through the ultimate Kiwi honeymoon than someone who’s called New Zealand “home” her whole life and made a career out of crafting dreams?

Enter Trish Peng, New Zealand’s leading wedding dress designer and a connoisseur of all things bridal! Known for her elegant, feminine aesthetic, Trish has dressed brides from Auckland to Dubai. But beyond her keen eye for fashion, she’s also a proud Kiwi with insider knowledge on how to make the most of a New Zealand honeymoon. In this guide, we’ll explore Trish’s top picks for destinations and experiences!

Destination Dreaming: Queenstown and Waiheke Island

When it comes to popular honeymoon spots, Trish doesn’t hesitate to name her top two: Queenstown and Waiheke Island. “Queenstown is perfect for couples who want to indulge in ultimate spa experiences and enjoy cozy dinner dates while also having the option to enjoy a range of outdoor activities,” Trish explains. She’s not just speaking from professional experience—Trish and her partner chose Queenstown for their own “mini-moon,” finding it the ideal place to unwind after their big day.

Queenstown, nestled in the Southern Alps, is a playground for adventure seekers and luxury lovers alike. Imagine soaking in the famous Onsen Hot Pools, steam rising around you as you gaze out at snow-capped mountains. It’s an experience Trish describes as “iconic,” and it’s easy to see why. The juxtaposition of warm, soothing waters and crisp mountain air creates a sensory experience that’s pure magic.

For those who prefer their romance with a side of “wine”ding down, Waiheke Island is Trish’s other top pick. “Waiheke Island is equally beautiful for couples wanting a romantic escape surrounded by beautiful beaches, luxury accommodations and iconic vineyards,” she says. Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke feels worlds away from the bustle of city life. Here, you can spend your days beach-hopping, wine tasting, and watching the sun dip below the horizon from your private villa.

A Taste of Kiwi Culture

No honeymoon is complete without indulging in local cuisine, and New Zealand offers a smorgasbord of options. Trish points to iconic wineries and restaurants like Mudbrick, Tantalus Estate, and Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen as must-visit spots. “These places are renowned for their innovative menus using local and fresh produce paired with the exceptional service Kiwis are known for,” she notes. Imagine clinking glasses of world-class Sauvignon Blanc as you look out over rolling vineyards—it’s the stuff honeymoon dreams are made of!

But Trish is quick to remind us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most memorable. “If you really want to immerse yourself in New Zealand culture, you can’t miss our iconic fish & chips, enjoyed countrywide,” she says. There’s something undeniably romantic about unwrapping a meal of fish and chips and sharing them on a beautiful beach—it’s a quintessential Kiwi experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Best Places to Lay Your Head

Image courtesy of thelandingnz.com

If you’re after exclusivity, Trish recommends The Landing Residences, a private estate that’s hosted the likes of Barack Obama and other global celebrities!

Image courtesy of kamana.co.nz

“We had a staycation at Kamana Lakehouse during our mini-moon and were treated to a private hot tub right on our balcony with the most stunning mountain views,” she says. These are the kinds of experiences that turn a honeymoon from lovely to legendary.

Planning Your Perfect Kiwi Honeymoon

After the whirlwind of wedding planning, the thought of organizing a honeymoon might seem daunting. But Trish insists: “When planning a honeymoon in New Zealand, a well-thought-out itinerary is a must!” She recommends considering accommodation, travel logistics, and desired activities far in advance. “This approach helps you stay within budget, avoiding overspending on spontaneous choices,” she explains.

However, Trish is quick to add a caveat: “Equally I think it’s important to not overbook yourself and just take the time to relax and unwind in each other’s company.” After all, a honeymoon is about celebrating your new life together, not ticking off a checklist of tourist attractions.

Nature’s Inspiration: From Landscape to Wedding Dress

As our conversation with Trish winds down, we can’t help but ask about the influence of New Zealand’s natural beauty on her designs. “Absolutely,” she responds enthusiastically. “The natural beauty of New Zealand is a constant inspiration when designing. We are known for being a beautiful clean, green country surrounded by botanical richness.” This inspiration manifests in the floral motifs and 3-D floral detailing that have become hallmarks of Trish Peng’s designs.

It’s a beautiful reminder that whether you’re wearing a Trish Peng gown or exploring the country that inspired it, you’re surrounded by the unique beauty of New Zealand.