All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
Enjoy a journey where your accommodation is an experience unto itself. We have searched all of New Zealand to find the most special and unique accommodations for couples. With over 800 great places to stay, here are a few ideas to get you dreaming.
How would you like your journey?
Stay in a cottage between the vines. And meet the hosts - the winemakers of Pinot Noir. A seaside bed and breakfast. An alpine lodge nestled between snow-capped mountains. Or at a cosmopolitan bed and breakfast in a quirky New Zealand town.
Discover how small-scale accommodation makes your holiday better.
Look inside 10 of our very comfortable accommodations for couples
At the foot of Te Mata Peak, in the heart of Hawke’s Bay’s wine country. A stylish and private cottage is… read more
Unlock the treasures of Kapiti Island, a small tranquil island which is home to an abundance of birds. A… read more
Nestled in a valley at the foot of the Garvie Mountains is a historic and remote sheep and cattle station. Just… read more
Set on an award-winning vineyard in the picturesque Tasman Bay, is a quaint cottage. If you love wine, you’ve come… read more
Wedged between two of the South Island’s most alluring lakes, this lavish lodge is set in an outdoor adventurers… read more
Located at the foothills of Mount Somers in Mid Canterbury, approximately 90 minutes drive from Christchurch City.… read more
"One of my favourite small-scale accommodations is run by Peter and Jenny. They are one of the friendliest couples, I've ever met."
Bart, Travel specialist
Did you know?
In our original business plan, made in 2006, it was already decided to look for as many climate-friendly solutions and travel components as possible, in close collaboration with local and small-scale accommodation owners.
Good to know
At TravelEssence, we almost exclusively book local, small-scale accommodations, run by locals because of their sustainable choices, regional products and care for their environment; but also to support local employment.
Useful facts
Get inspired
Whakatane is located, in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, and is one of New Zealand’s sunniest towns. Maori culture and history are deeply embedded in the area. You can join local Maori to hear ancient stories and experience a traditional feast called a Hangi. Go swimming, kayaking and snorkelling at Whale Island, home to an abundance of marine life.
WiFi & internet
Please be aware that some remote accommodations, Downunder have limited WiFi access or none at all. In some places, you may also need to pay for WiFi and internet access. This, of course, varies from accommodation to accommodation.
Accommodation check in & out times
Check in and check out times vary from accommodation to accommodation. However, the average time for check-in time is from 3 pm till 6 pm. If you wish to arrive earlier than this, please contact the hosts in advance to see if this is possible. We will also provide more specific information about the check-in/check-out time of each accommodation you are staying at on a provided voucher. Check out time is generally before 10 am.
Food and groceries
During your holiday Downunder, some places are remote and therefore grocery shopping may need to be thought of in advance, before arriving at your accommodation. We will provide you with more information about this on a voucher.
Please be aware that some places have limited trading hours, especially on Sunday. And on some public holidays, for example, Good Friday, you are not able to purchase alcohol from the liquor store. We recommend planning in advance to avoid any food and drink shortages.
Culinary
A journey together, devouring Australia’s most excellent food and wine. Taste local Australian produce. Gastronomic flavours. A modern blend of a mix of international cuisines. World-class wine. Craft beers. Cider and whiskeys. Artisan food from the farmer’s market. Home-grown vegetables and tropical fruits. The world’s best oysters. And more.
Savour fish and chips - Aussie style, by the beach. Sample wine at the world-renowned Barossa Valley. Have brunch at a cafe under the shady trees and sunshine of Saint Kilda. Try a freshly baked spinach roll from the bakery. Enjoy a barbecue in the park. Taste Australia’s finest seafood. Whatever your flavour, Australia has something for you.
Ask the locals
New Zealanders are renowned for being very friendly. However, they are also very helpful. Whether you need directions or if you're having trouble deciding where to go. So, if you ever need help along the way, just ask a local Kiwi. They are more than happy to help. And of course, they love to share a story (or three) too!
Your hosts are local experts with an abundance of information about the area to share with you. Ask them, they know their home better than anyone else. And they love to share their local knowledge with you so you can make the most of your time DownUnder.
Discover more about travelling with your partner
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey