© NZPocketGuide.comRomantic Adventure Activities
In the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, of course, adventure is on the menu. Because they are best shared, here are some of the best adventure activities in Hanmer Springs for couples.
Start off your visit with an adrenaline-high produced by a freefall bungy jump with Hanmer Springs Attractions. Tackle the jump together with the tandem bungy jump option, where both of your feet will be leaning over Hanmer Springs’ historic Ferry Bridge before taking the plunge above the surging Waiau River below! Although the bungy jump is the smallest in the country at 35m (115ft), you can keep that your little secret.
Another way to adventure together is to hit the myriad of bike trails in the area. This independent activity takes you away from the tour groups to enjoy the great outdoors, just the two of you. Hire mountain bikes and use the shuttle service of Hanmer Adventure Centre who will fit you up and point you in the right direction of your chosen ride or the popular Jack’s Pass and Jollie’s Pass rides. Enjoy vast vistas of tussock land, farms and the Clarence River Valley on the quiet country backroads and bike trails.
Alternatively, if you want to just get silly and grab a fun photo op, hire a two-seater “Rocket Bike” from the Hanmer Adventure Centre or a “Village Cruiser” from the Alpine Crazy Putt mini golf course. Either way, they’re cheap and cheerful fun to enjoy with your loved one.
And to stick to your honeymoon budget, why not try some of the romantic walks of Hanmer Springs? Spot the wooden sculptures together on the Forest Amble Walk down Jollie’s Pass Road or opt for epic views from atop the Conical Hill Walk – both are just a 30-minute stroll. For something more challenging, the Mt Isobel Track is a stunning mountaintop hike with views that say it all. The latter takes about five hours to complete.
© NZPocketGuide.comRomantic All-weather Activities
When it comes to rainy day alternatives, couples are encouraged to relax at one of the village’s spa experiences. The most famous, of course, is the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa. Either pay admission to the main pools, which is a huge complex of various hot pools scattered between nature-inspired landscaping where it’s usually easy to find a quiet corner (the quietest time to visit is usually around 5:30pm). Additionally, upgrade to one of The Spa at Hanmer Springs’ couple’s treatments, from the 60-minute aromatic massage to the 80-minute Couple’s Retreat package with an exfoliating clay body mask wrap, Hydrostorm Capsule and more.
Yes, there are more spa options in Hanmer Springs, so you might want to opt for the boutique spa of the Braemar Lodge And Spa. As well as a sauna and an extensive menu of spa treatments, Braemar Lodge also offers couples’ massages if booked directly with the lodge.
© Braemar Lodge And SpaRomantic Restaurants in Hanmer Springs
Complement your romantic getaway with evening meals to excite the senses at Hanmer Springs’ most romantic restaurants. While it may sound cliché, the nearby wineries are an obvious go-to, such as the Waiau River Estate (2254 Mouse Point Road) open for tastings and gourmet cuisine from Friday to Sunday (bookings advised). On your way into Hanmer Springs, stop by for tastings at the various wineries of the Waipara Valley or opt for a private day tour to Hanmer Springs and three different wineries from Christchurch with NZSI Tours & Travel.
For romantic dining in town, we list some of your fine dining options like the Braemar Lodge And Spa and No. 31 Restaurant & Bar in The Luxury Guide to Hanmer Springs. Other noteworthy dining experiences for couples, however, include MK Restaurant (3/24 Conical Hill Road) amidst an elegant interior with masterpieces of contemporary European cuisine.
And for a bit of spice, head to the elegant Indian restaurant, Spice Village (5 Conical Hill Road). Get cosy in one of the comfortable booths or dine alfresco in the courtyard under the fairy lights while enjoying authentic Indian curries that are beautifully presented.
