Does life feel so hectic right now that you’re missing out on those magical moments with your special someone? A romantic getaway in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland could be just what you need to reignite the flame and connect at a deeper level than ever before.
And if you don’t have a partner? No need to miss out. Recharge with your bestie or sign up for a soulful, solo retreat.
And because we know you’re really busy, we at Urban List have done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the best romantic getaways and magical retreats within driving (or ferry) distance from Auckland, so you can get straight down to blissful relaxation. Enjoy.
Waiheke Island Island Chalet Onetangi
Wake up in this sail-shaped blue gem on Waiheke Island and you’ll be greeted by epic vistas of the Hauraki Gulf and the Coromandel. Not only is this chalet adorable to look at from the outside, but inside it’s got everything you need for a seriously romantic stay, including a loft-style bedroom where you can see the sunrise from bed.
You’re just a stroll from the glistening sands of Onetangi and Palm beaches here, and yet restaurants, cafes and a supermarket are just 1.5km away too. Plus, Casito Miro vineyard is close by, so you can stock up on Syrah for your stay. If you’re not out supping a glass of the good stuff, we reckon you’ll be on the balcony back at your pad firing up the barbecue for a meal with a view.
Waikino Ruru PurePod
A sublime getaway just 90 minutes from central Auckland, Ruru PurePod is one of the most romantic getaways we've ever been on (and that's saying something). It's so jaw-droppingly beautiful we had to mute our first look video clips else risk subjective viewers to a string of jubilant expletives.
Arrive in plenty of daylight and primed for a mini-trek across farmland (just 600m) then pull up a lounger, kick back and drink it all in, ideally with a glass of bubbles in hand. Do book the dinner and breakfast hamper package and throw in your runners for a spot of adventuring in the nearby Karangahake Gorge or Hauraki Rail Trail. Scope our full review here.
Auckland Stellar Glamping
Romantic stay in a golden dome sound intriguing? At Stellar Glamping there’s no need to wrestle with muddy tents and camping chairs. By booking the Amour suite you’ll be opting for a one-of-a-kind holiday that your other half will love. Your circular home on the outskirts of Auckland is wonderfully styled inside, with a French iron chandelier, handmade dark green art wallcovering, vintage suede sofa and a giant hemispherical glass window that’s tinted to add even more romance to the surrounding scenery.
Pad out to your own private bathroom, located just steps from the front door of your dome, or head to the outdoor kitchen that’s shared with another dome on site, but cleverly designed so you have your own space. Breakfast is already sorted for you, thanks to a complimentary package of four fresh eggs, a loaf of bread, and a bottle of milk. If you want to amp up the luxe factor, you can choose to upgrade the breakfast package and add extras like a marshmallow toasting kit or decoration package for a special occasion. Just ask.
Kumeū The Black Barn
With its moody interior, undercover outdoor spa and a big screen outside for movie nights under the stars, The Black Barn has your romantic getaway well and truly sorted. It sits in wine country, within half an hour’s drive of Auckland, and a stone’s throw from vineyards, breweries and strawberry farms just ripe for exploring. (You’re also just 15 minutes from the striking black sands of Muriwai beach where a sunset picnic calls btw.)
Throw open the bi-fold doors in your open-plan living space and you can pad out to your entertaining deck, barbecue and spa. Ask Alexa to get some tunes pumping while you pour yourself a glass of red and get that steak sizzling. Later, you can challenge your plus-one to a game of pool at your very own table, before retiring to that hot tub because… why not?
Waiheke Island Omana Luxury Villa
Pop across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island for a luxurious romantic getaway like no other. At Omana Luxury Villa you’ll start each day with a tasty continental breakfast then explore all that Waiheke has to offer, or simply relax on the garden deck and enjoy the exquisite vistas of Rocky Bay before blissing out in their gorgeous bathtub overlooking the pristine water.
The choice Waiheke Island pitstop of celebs like Taika Waititi and Rita Ora and Formula One driver Valtteri Bottas, along with his athlete wife Tiffany Cromwell, no expense has been spared. Omana Luxury Villas has everything you need and more. Lush.
Kerikeri Magic Cottages At Takou River
Venture far far away out of Auckland and you'll find some magical cottages, Takou River Cottages to be exact. Choose your own cottage perched in native bush. The best bit? There's an outdoor bath for two. Take a glass of bubbles in with you and cheers to the beauty of nature—and your relationship.
With this many stars, you’ll forget about the city lights as you let the river noises, crickets and native birds lull you into a blissful night's sleep.
Auckland Te Kawa
Picture this. You enjoy a soak in the hot tub with your other half, before snuggling up with a glass of bubbles and a takeaway in front of the fire inside your own fairy light-lit glasshouse. If that doesn’t scream romantic Airbnb experience we don’t know what does. But you don’t even need to break the bank to enjoy this one. Te Kawa is its own little urban oasis in the heart of Auckland, and while it’s attached to the owner’s house by one single wall, it’s a haven of privacy.
Inside, you’ll find a gorgeously styled pad, with a queen bed, ensuite, work desk and a lovely balcony overlooking a lush, tropical garden. You’ve got plush robes, eco slippers and Ashley & Co body care products to indulge in during your stay. As well as a 24-hour hot tub, you’ve got access to an outdoor heated shower beneath the palm trees, and there’s books, board games and an art kit for you to use too.
Riverhead NZ Summer House
Does your idea of romance involve your very own pool, hot tub and swinging egg-chair for snuggling in? What if it had a complimentary bottle of wine and chocolate thrown in too? NZ Summer House has it all, and your stay is an easy 30-minute drive from Auckland CBD so it comes without the long car journey.
Wake in your king size bed here and you can, quite literally, throw open the doors and slide outside for an early morning dip before deciding what to do with your day. We reckon a visit to the epic restaurants and vineyards nearby is a real no-brainer, plus you’re within a stroll of Riverhead Forest, where you can hike and bike to your heart’s content too. Back at your Airbnb you might fancy a soak in the outdoor bath, or perhaps a spot of marshmallow-toasting at the outdoor fireplace.
Langs Beach Andersons Cove
For a boujee escape in Whāngarei that’s brimming with romance, check out Andersons Cove. The Langs Beach Lodge is located 61km from Whāngarei airport and comes with all the trimmings—a romantic outdoor bathtub, beachfront views, an extra large double bed, a coffee machine, a sun terrace and free parking.
Breakfast is included, as is bed linen and towels, plus adventure lovers will dig how easy it is to get some epic hiking, fishing, snorkelling and canoeing in.
Auckland Homestead Cottage
This light-filled Homestead Cottage is a slice of paradise just 40 minutes from Auckland. Perfect for couples who love to be in nature together, the cliff-hugging walkways, 50km of sandy beach and wild West Coast ocean will satisfy even the most adventurous souls.
Be sure to make the most of the local cafes, too, and a stay at Muriwai would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic gannet colony.
Raglan Barrique Studio @ Barrelled Wines Raglan
Look no further if you’re into stunning seaside views and a peaceful vibe. Just 30 minutes from Raglan, this Barrique Studio in Ruapuke is perched on the edge of a vineyard. Spend your days surfing, hiking up Mt Karioi, marvelling at Bridal Veil Falls, or mountain biking along Whanganui Coastal Road then curl up together and watch the sunset.
The possie is fully equipped too, with all the kitchen essentials, a barbecue, a TV, self-check-in, a private entrance, and a ceiling fan for cooling off if things get…. spicy.
Mangawhai Tara Farm Cabin
Get ready for a serious slice of cosiness at Tara Farm Cabin. This rural romantic escape, under 90 minutes’ drive from Auckland is set on a working farm with bush views. But it’s not all cattle and paddocks here, you’re just ten minutes from Mangawhai surf beach and eight minutes from the village so there’s heaps to do.
The outdoor bathroom at this pad deserves a special mention. It’s seamlessly integrated into nature, accessed via a covered deck and has a lovely outdoor bath that sits beneath an ancient Puriri tree. Take a load off and unwind in the bubbles while listening to the sounds of nature around you. There’s a wood-burning fireplace on the deck to keep you feeling toasty as you enjoy an alfresco dinner under the stars.
Karaka Rose Cottage
For those after a city escape without actually leaving the city, Rose Cottage is a short 44km drive away. The private farm stay is perched in the middle of a vibrant garden and has a kitchenette, barbecue, two smart TVs, and a super king bed overlooking an orchard.
The highlight, however, has got to be the outdoor bath for two which we hear doubles as a perfect spot for star-gazing. Complimentary continental breakfast is supplied on your first morning with fresh homemade artisan bread, French press and freshly ground locally roasted coffee to help you and your boo start the day right. This is definitely one of the most romantic getaways in Auckland.
Thornton The Grove Farm Stay
Add a little somethin’ somethin’ to your romantic getaway by booking into a Mongolian yurt in Thornton (about 3 ½ hours drive from Tāmaki Makaurau). The Grove Farm Stay is fully insulated with an added heat pump/air conditioner for extra comfort.
Outside you’ll find a spa, pizza oven, gas barbecue and braiser. Sorted. To complete the boujee yurt fantasy, Sky TV, a record player and WiFi are available on request, plus you can choose to add a DIY hot breakfast package or a cheese, antipasto or celebration platter which comes with a bottle of red or white wine, craft beer or a bottle of Daniel LeBrun champagne. Damn.
Mangawhai Arohanui Cabins
Known for its summery vibe Mangawhai is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, especially when you’re staying at this eco-conscious glamping site. Arohanui Cabins has everything we’ve come to expect in an escape—star-gazing, an open-air bathtub, a comfy bed, a pizza oven and a tiny kitchen with all the essentials.
To (further) sweeten the deal there are tree swings, campfires and a hammock. We love the gorgeous outdoor living spaces and the cosy interiors.
Waiuku Castaways
Sitting pretty on clifftops overlooking Kariotahi Beach, Castaways' location couldn’t be more romantic. Cast away your worries and watch the black sand melt into the ocean and the sky beyond from the comfort of your very own private studio.
Can't be bothered with the hassle of cooking in your own kitchen? Castaways Resort has an on-site restaurant on the clifftop so you don't even need to worry about dealing with the washing up. Sip on a wine wine and enjoy the best of New Zealand's local produce while admiring the panoramic views.
Whangarei The Glasshouse
The Glasshouse is dreamy opulence on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy champagne on arrival while you ponder what to indulge in first: will you live your mermaid fantasy in the saltwater reticulated rockpool, go for a cheeky dip in the private cove or spend the afternoon relaxing in a hammock among ancient Pohutukawa trees?
If the decision proves too taxing you can opt for a cleanse instead and, with a touch of a button, enjoy million-dollar views of the ocean while you shower. Yaaaaaas. Without a doubt, this is one of the most romantic getaways within driving distance of Auckland.
Taumarunui Te Awa Glamping
Glamping is a classic romantic getaway and for good reason—there’s something magical about part-way between camping and luxury and we’re here for it. Pitched on the bank of the Whanganui River you’ll arrive at Te Awa Glamping by jet boat, canoe, air or road before kicking back around the fire pit or sinking onto the comfy bed.
For more active relaxation, you could stroll hand-in-hand along the edge of the river, or maybe even try your hand at fly fishing. Whatever you choose, end your day with a bubble bath on the deck. Luxe.
Raglan Treehouse In The Woods
If your love proves fairytales do come true then you might just like to book a picture book-worthy woodland treehouse for your next romantic getaway. Surrounded by ten acres of pine forest and ten acres of bush, complete with ocean views and free from WiFi, you’ll unwind, effortlessly.
Don’t let the cute exteriors fool you—this treehouse is fully equipped with everything you need, from a kitchen with a gas cooktop, a barbecue, a queen-sized futon bed and a gas heater, to a hot shower and flushing toilet. Don’t even get us started on the hot water bath on the deck.
Matakana Private Bush Retreat
A secret bush retreat is just seven minutes from the heart of Matakana township yet feels like miles away. A forested path leads you to the modern hut equipped with a kitchen, indoor fireplace and cosy bedroom in an open-plan design. Relax under the indoor rainforest shower or spend a while soaking in an outdoor cedar tub in the shade of a giant puriri.
Gather around the outdoor fire in the cool of the evening, gaze out at the rolling hills and farmland or dance around to tunes on the record player before snuggling up to watch a movie on the super wide projection screen. WiFi-free, although accessible if desired, at this private bush retreat you can kick back and live the good life.
Korito The Treehouse: Off-Grid Retreat
This next spot might be pushing the driving distance a bit, being just shy of five hours away from Auckland, but if you can muster the energy, it’ll be well worth it. Yes, there’s already a treehouse on this list but this one comes with a slide.
We’ll repeat that—a slide. Located at the base of Mt Taranaki National Park in the shade of macrocarpa trees this four-level, self-contained, off-grid treehouse is powered by renewable energy, built from recycled and repurposed materials, and even boasts an e-bike charging point. Spend all your time in awe that you’re in an epic treehouse or explore the surrounding area, kayaking, rowing on the lake, wandering the walkways, patting farm animals and spotting glow worms.
Okiato The Syrah Shack
If you love the sound of a cabin stay lubricated with a cheeky glass or three of local wine, then you should give The Syrah Shack a squiz. Tucked away among native bushland behind syrah vines, this rustic hut is half cabin and half romantic glamping experience.
Don’t worry, you get a super king bed to sleep on here, but you also get an outdoor bathtub for two and the adventure of cooking at an outdoor camping-style kitchen which we reckon just adds to the fun. Not so keen on the hassle of cooking? You’re just ten minutes outside of Russell township and there’s a vineyard, cellar door and eatery just 1km from your stay. Hooray!
Pouto, Northland Kapia Lodge
Perched high up on the cliff tops overlooking Kaipara Harbour, is one of the most romantic getaways in Aotearoa.
Kapia Lodge is serenity incarnate, with all the comforts your heart could desire—a hot tub, stunning harbour views, sand dunes to explore, a Nespresso machine… There’s even a high-tech telescope for reading each other’s stars. This gem is pet-friendly too, so your furry friends can get in on the pampering.
Contributors: Katherine Davison
Main image credit: Andersons Cove | Booking .com
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