So, you’ve decided to skip the big wedding and elope in one of the most stunning places on Earth? Brilliant choice. New Zealand isn’t just a country; it’s an adventure wrapped in breathtaking landscapes. Whether you dream of exchanging vows on a secluded beach, atop a snow-capped peak, or beneath a sky bursting with stars, this guide will help you find the perfect elopement package in New Zealand.
But first—why elope here instead of, say, Las Vegas or Bali?
Why Elope in New Zealand?
New Zealand is a wedding photographer’s dream come true. It’s where epic landscapes meet absolute tranquility. Here’s why couples love eloping in Aotearoa:
🌄 Unreal scenery: Fjords, beaches, mountains, forests—every backdrop is a work of art.
🎥 Feels like a movie set: Because, well, it is! Ever heard of The Lord of the Rings?
💨 Less stress, more adventure: No guest list drama, no seating charts—just you, your love, and an unforgettable experience.
📜 Easy marriage laws: No residency requirements and minimal paperwork mean more time for enjoying your big day.
Now, let’s explore where you can say “I do” in style.
Best Elopement Packages in New Zealand by Location
1. Queenstown – For the Adventure-Loving Couple
If skydiving into your wedding sounds thrilling (or at least taking a helicopter to an alpine peak), Queenstown is your place. Known as the adventure capital of the world, it’s perfect for couples who want an epic, adrenaline-fueled elopement.
📍 Best locations:
- Cecil Peak – Take a chopper to this mountaintop for mind-blowing views.
- Moke Lake – Serene and stunning, great for intimate lakeside vows.
📷 Best elopement packages:
💰 Estimated cost: $5,000 – $12,000 NZD (including photography, celebrant, transport).
2. Lake Tekapo – For the Starry-Eyed Romantics
If your dream wedding involves the Milky Way twinkling above you, welcome to Lake Tekapo. It’s part of the International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning zero light pollution and millions of stars as your wedding guests.
📍 Best locations:
- Church of the Good Shepherd – A tiny stone chapel with breathtaking lake views.
- Mount John Observatory – Say your vows under the stars with a telescope nearby.
📷 Best elopement packages:
💰 Estimated cost: $4,000 – $10,000 NZD.
3. Abel Tasman – For Beach Lovers
Imagine golden sand, turquoise waters, and a completely private beach ceremony. Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s sunniest spot, making it perfect for couples who want a barefoot, relaxed elopement.
📍 Best locations:
- Awaroa Beach – Only accessible by boat, kayak, or on foot (talk about exclusive!).
- Split Apple Rock – A dramatic rock formation perfect for unique photos.
📷 Best elopement packages:
💰 Estimated cost: $3,500 – $9,000 NZD.
4. Fiordland (Milford Sound) – For Dramatic, Jaw-Dropping Scenery
If mystical fjords, towering waterfalls, and deep blue waters make your heart race, Milford Sound is the place for you. It’s remote, cinematic, and arguably the most romantic place on the planet.
📍 Best locations:
- Mitre Peak – One of NZ’s most iconic landscapes.
- Stirling Falls – A 155-meter waterfall for an unforgettable backdrop.
📷 Best elopement packages:
💰 Estimated cost: $6,000 – $14,000 NZD.
5. Wanaka – For a Peaceful Alpine Escape
Less crowded than Queenstown but just as beautiful, Wanaka is a dream for couples seeking a private, nature-filled ceremony.
📍 Best locations:
- Roy’s Peak – Insane 360° views (but be ready for a steep hike!).
- Glendhu Bay – Quiet lakeside spot for a laid-back elopement.
📷 Best elopement packages:
💰 Estimated cost: $4,500 – $10,000 NZD.
How Much Does an Elopement in New Zealand Cost?
Elopements are way cheaper than traditional weddings but can still range in price depending on location, services, and luxury level.
💰 Typical costs:
✔ Basic package (celebrant + simple ceremony): $2,000 – $4,000 NZD.
✔ Mid-range (photography, flowers, transport): $5,000 – $8,000 NZD.
✔ Luxury (helicopter, videography, all-inclusive): $10,000 – $15,000 NZD+.
Elopement Planning Tips & FAQs
📅 Best time to elope in NZ?
October – April (spring/summer) for beaches and mountains, May – September (autumn/winter) for snowy peaks.
📜 Legal requirements?
- Apply for a NZ marriage license (takes 3 days).
- Have a registered celebrant and two witnesses (yes, I can sign as one!).
📸 Do I need a photographer?
100% yes! You’ll want breathtaking photos to remember your once-in-a-lifetime day.
Ready to Capture Your Elopement in New Zealand?
Eloping in New Zealand is a dream, but capturing that dream? That’s where I come in. As a destination wedding photographer, I don’t just take photos—I craft visual love stories set against the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
📸 See my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Explore photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s chat: Contact Me
Let’s make your New Zealand elopement as magical as your love story. 🚀
