This Guide will help you plan:
An epic elopement in New Zealand covering all the essentials and a few extras
A New Zealand Photographer & Tour Guide
I'm here to help you elope in New Zealand
Hi, I'm Chaznel, New Zealand local, full day and multi-day elopement expert based in the South Island of New Zealand. I help travel loving couples plan and document their dream elopement in New Zealand in an authentic kiwi way.
Locally based - having grown up in both North and South Island's of New Zealand
Have experience photographing elopements in New Zealand for over 4 years
Have worked with over 70 couples helping them feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera
Helped couples plan elopement adventures from start to finish with my thorough planning process
70+
Elopements in New Zealand
70+
5-star
Google Reviews
6+ Years
Experience photographing in New Zealand
Eloping in new zealand doesn't have to feel overwhelming
With my detailed eloping in New Zealand guide:
We'll cover locations, vendors, activities and more so you know exactly where to begin your planning journey without having to guess what next! So let's dive in ->
New Zealand Elopement Locations
Best places to elope in New Zealand
This region offers a quiet kind of beauty—raw, untouched, and deeply grounding. Whether you're drawn to the solitude of windswept beaches, the elegance of wine country, or the vastness of open landscapes and rolling hills, North Canterbury gives you space to breathe, connect, and begin your marriage in a way that’s completely your own. It’s more than a backdrop—it’s a feeling you’ll never forget.
Queenstown is pure magic—where snow-capped peaks rise above glassy lakes, and every turn reveals a scene straight out of a postcard. From golden light spilling over alpine ridges to the quiet hush of a forest trail at sunrise, Queenstown invites you to slow down and be present. It’s not just breathtaking—it’s soul-stirring. If you’re dreaming of an elopement that blends epic scenery with quiet connection, Queenstown is where that dream begins.
Wānaka is where love feels slow, still, and deeply rooted—surrounded by soaring peaks, golden tussock fields, and the serene hush of Lake Wānaka stretching out before you. Where your elopement can feel less like a production and more like a moment you can actually live inside. Whether you're exchanging vows beneath ancient trees, on a lakeside ledge at golden hour, Wānaka offers a sense of sacred calm and beauty that’s both grand and grounding. It's perfect for couples who want their day to feel intentional, intimate, and completely connected to nature.
Milford Sound is otherworldly—where towering cliffs rise from deep, still waters and waterfalls cascade through the mist. It's wild, reverent, and unforgettable. Saying your vows here feels sacred, with nature as your only witness and each moment wrapped in awe. This is a place for couples drawn to raw beauty and deep connection. If you want your elopement to feel soul-stirring and timeless, Milford Sound offers a setting unlike anywhere else.
Mount Cook is the crown of the Southern Alps—majestic, still, and awe-inspiring. Surrounded by glaciers, alpine lakes, and endless sky, it offers the kind of setting where everything else falls away and you're left with just the two of you—and the adventure you're beginning. If you're dreaming of an elopement that feels bold, grounding, and breathtakingly beautiful, Aoraki is where love meets the mountains and memories are made in the wild.
New Zealand seasons
Best time to elope in New Zealand
Summer
Long daylight hours mean more time to explore and enjoy the outdoors. You can hike, swim, or say your vows lakeside with the sun warm on your skin. It’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed, adventure-filled day with golden sunsets that last forever.
Autumn
The landscape turns warm and golden, with beautiful colors and cooler temps that make hiking and exploring super comfortable. It’s a quieter time of year, perfect for intimate elopements with cozy layers, hot drinks, and beautiful mountain backdrops.
Winter
Snow-covered peaks, moody skies, and crisp, clear air create some of the most dramatic and romantic elopement settings. You can say your vows in the snow, then warm up by a fire with mulled wine and no crowds in sight.
Spring
Everything comes back to life—flowers bloom, the air is fresh, and the scenery is bright and full of energy. It’s a beautiful season for couples who want to feel that sense of new beginnings as they start their marriage journey.
Guests
One of the best things about eloping means you get to make the rules. There's freedom in choosing to elope and this includes whether you have family and friends present for your ceremony...
You might choose:
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Just the two of you
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A few close friends/family
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A private ceremony now, celebration later
Tip: If you want to include loved ones without them being there in person, consider:
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Reading letters (or watching pre-recorded messages) from them during your elopement
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Live-streaming your vows (remember that not all locations in New Zealand will have cell reception)
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Sharing a photo album or video afterward during an post elopement celebration
Vendors
This is not a necessary vendor but sometimes one that makes you feel a little special with a little treat! On your elopement day, you can choose whether you're a natural girly or a would like a little soft bridal glam.
New Zealand is known for it's four seasons in one day so the key to good elopement hair, is proper prep. Some of the best hair stylists in the New Zealand wedding industry have tried and true methods of keeping your hair perfect all day long!
Sometimes a little dash of florals with a bouquet and buttonhole is all you need... but with an elopement you have the endless possibilities for having the flowers of your dreams in beautiful locations. Noting that please keep seed producing/pest flowers out of New Zealand National Parks.
What makes a great celebrant you may ask? And my answer would be, someone who listens and creates a beautiful ceremony script that reflects what you have shared with them. Someone who takes the time to get to know you both and someone who truly cares. Make sure you're scheduling those zoom calls before you book with vendors especially your celebrant, you want to make sure you get along with them!
Choosing the right photographer and planner matters
As a New Zealand local photographer and elopement planner I'll help you plan everything you dream of for your special day. Including helping you choose the right locations by working through my thorough planning questionnaires, planning a rush-free and stress-free timeline and finally capturing all those gorgeous memories on the day for you to keep FOREVER!
Just some of the perk to working with me:
Location guidance:
Throughout the planning process I'll guide you towards the best locations that match the vibes you're aiming for in your elopement/honeymoon tour. We'll then work together to create the perfect road trip route allowing you to make the most of your trip!
sneak peeks during your trip:
I won't make you wait till the end of your trip for photos, you'll have sneak peeks from each day as we travel along, allowing you to share with family and friends back home while you're on your adventure!
Essential vendors:
Your elopement day and honeymoon trip will include lots of goodies and vendors to make the day as special as possible without the stress of planning. Vendors can include: Flowers, Hair + Makeup, Accommodation, Heli-Flight, Celebrant etc.
Chauffeuring:
Allowing you to enjoy all the views while we travel, I'll be your guide, photographer, and chauffeur throughout the trip. This also allows you to get comfortable with our roads first, should you decide to stick around for a little longer after our adventure!
Recommendations:
Apart from including the essential vendors in your multi-day elopement package, I'll recommend accommodation options, local eateries, activities and more so you spend less time googling, and more time enjoying!
Planning:
From the moment we jump on our first call I'll start the planning process, coordinating your vendors, planning the timeline/routes, and sending your details about the ins and outs of eloping here, booking flights, applying for visas and securing your marriage licence. You'll never be left to fend for yourself!
Legal Requirements
How to legally get married in New Zealand
You’ll need to apply for a marriage license from a New Zealand Registrar. This can be done applied and paid for online which makes it super easy. The license is valid for three months, but can be processed within 3 days so there's never a super long wait for it to be processed. Make sure to check that your home country views a New Zealand marriage as a legal marriage.
You’ll need a licensed celebrant to conduct the ceremony. This can be a celebrant, religious figure, or a Registrar (although registry ceremonies are not allowed to have photographers present). Many celebrants offer a specially created option for eloping couples making it easy to personalise your experience.
Witnesses
You’ll need two witnesses to sign your marriage certificate. These witnesses can be anyone over the age of 16. If you don’t have anyone with you, many elopement planners or celebrants can provide witnesses. You can also ask your photographer to be a witness.
Identification:
You’ll need to provide identification, such as a passport or birth certificate, when applying for your marriage license. If you’re not a New Zealand citizen, make sure to have your passport and any required documents on hand.
Creating a personal experience
Planning a day you'll remember
Personal Vows
Write your own vows to make the ceremony feel even more intimate. The scenic beauty of New Zealand will be the perfect backdrop as you share your love with one another.
New Zealand is famous for its outdoor activities, so why not add a touch of adventure to your elopement? After your ceremony, go for a hike, take a scenic flight, or even go skydiving or bungee jumping.
You don’t need to go to a big reception, but you can enjoy a cozy dinner at a fine restaurant, a private wine-tasting tour, or even a picnic in one of New Zealand’s national parks.
Sample Timeline
Flexible and Stress-Free
The beauty of elopements are that that don't need to be jam packed minute-by-minute — by having a loosely planned day you'll have the freedom to work with the weather but still have an idea for the day's itinerary. By having a free-flowing timeline you'll have the space to enjoy and be present to make memories without feeling rushed...
Timeline for 8 hours:
8:00am – Coffee + getting ready in your cabin/BnB
10:00am – First look in the forest
11:00am – Helicopter to mountain peak for vows
1:00pm – Picnic and champagne
3:00pm – Scenic photos + exploring
5:00pm – Sunset photos on the beach
7:00pm – Dinner by candlelight back at your Airbnb
Elopement Packing CheckList
Adventure means flexibility. You’ll want to be comfortable, warm, and photo-ready all at once. Remember that the weather in New Zealand can change in an instant so being prepared for any weather means you won't stress if the elements suddenly change...
Layers! (New Zealand weather can flip quick)
Comfy hiking shoes
Optional boots (heels) for photos
Touch-up kit for makeup/hair
Blanket for cozy portraits or snuggling
Your vows + rings
Champagne + a snack board
Water bottles (staying hydrated is always important)
Sunscreen (New Zealand has a hole in it's ozone layer which means you burn much easier. Here is my absolute favourite natural sunscreen made right here in New Zealand)
Extra clothing (in case you decide to go for a cold plunge or swim in your wedding gear then you have back-up clothing to get changed into)
Elopement Budget
Budgetting so you get the most experience out of your day!
Elopements can cost anywhere from $6K to $100K, so it’s essential to plan your budget carefully. Here are some expenses to keep in mind:
Travel
Flights to New Zealand, especially from faraway destinations, can be a significant part of your budget. Be sure to book well in advance to get the best deals.
From luxury lodges to cozy cabins, there are many options for accommodation in New Zealand. If you’re eloping in a remote location, be prepared to pay a premium for privacy and exclusivity.
Vendors
While you don’t need many, hiring a photographer, celebrant, or florist can add up. Prices can vary greatly depending on location and the specialty of the vendors.
Whether you’re looking to go on a scenic tour, take a helicopter ride, or try bungee jumping, New Zealand offers plenty of fun activities. Factor these into your budget if you want an adventurous experience.
Because you deserve a day planned your way.
Okay, so how does this work?
Step One: Inquire
Inquire and share your dream day vision with me. I'll respond to your email within 48 hours.
Cake Time in Lees Valley
Step Two: Plan
We'll plan your dream elopement together, covering all the details and keeping stress and overwhelm at bay.
Abandoned lighthouse portraits in north canterbury
Step Three: Adventure + Capture
You get to show up, feel amazing, enjoy your adventure and receive images you're obsessed with!
Picnic + Uno at Castle Hill
"Chaznel creates such a magical experience"
"My husband and I were lucky enough to work with Chaznel last year. Everything was great, from the communication prior to the day, to making us feel comfortable, to her organising the locations. Chaznel creates such a magical experience and I couldn't recommend her more!!!"
Liam + Mel
Post symbolic ceremony portraits at Akaroa Waterfall
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