Planning your New Zealand Elopement – Ultimate Guide

Thinking of ditching tradition and doing something wildly you instead? An adventure elopement in New Zealand might just be the most unforgettable way to say “I do.”

Between the dramatic mountains, untamed coastlines, and alpine lakes, NZ offers couples the freedom to create a wedding day that’s deeply personal, wildly beautiful — and 100% stress-free (yep, really).

Whether you’ve already booked your flights or are just daydreaming over coffee, here’s your complete guide to planning an adventure elopement in New Zealand — from choosing your dream location to what to pack, and everything in between.

Psst! Want to make this even easier? Grab your FREE Adventure Elopement Planning Guide to start mapping out your dream day: Download your free planner here

Let's jump in to planning your New Zealand elopement...

1. Choosing your Elopement Location

New Zealand is the place for jaw-dropping scenery — but not all spots are created equal for eloping...

Think about your vibe. Do you imagine:

• Saying vows in a mountain valley?

• Running barefoot across a sandy beach?

• Flying by helicopter to a secret alpine lookout?

Some popular regions to consider:

• North Canterbury – Hidden valleys, rivers, and mountain backdrops without the crowds.

• Queenstown/Wanaka – Iconic alpine elopement spots (think heli-landing vibes).

• Fiordland – For truly remote, otherworldly backdrops.

• Aoraki/Mount Cook – Glaciers, snow, and starry skies.

Pro Tip: Permits (although most of our national parks don't require permits, many of them have rules), accessibility, and weather matter — work with a local elopement photographer who can guide you to spots that are both epic and logistically smooth.

2. When to Elope in New Zealand

The best time to elope in New Zealand depends on the type of experience you’re after:

• Summer (December to February): The weather is warmest during these months, making it ideal for outdoor ceremonies. It’s also the high season for tourism, so be prepared for more crowds in popular locations. Wanaka, Aoraki, and Queenstown tend to attract the most tourists during these months so be sure to choose a photographer who know how to avoid the crowds if you want any of these locations. 

  
  

• Autumn (March to May): The weather is still mild, but the fall foliage adds a magical touch to your elopement photos. The crowds are thinner compared to summer, so it’s an excellent time for a peaceful elopement. The mornings and evenings are cooler so pack warmer clothes for those months. 

  
  

• Winter (June to August): If you’re dreaming of a snow-capped mountain adventure, or a complete white-out elopement, winter offers exactly that. The weather can be cold, but it’s perfect for a cozy and intimate elopement in a secluded cabin or lodge.

  
  

• Spring (September to November): Spring is the most unpredictable season, but it offers beautiful wildflowers and fresh, green landscapes. You’ll find fewer tourists compared to summer, which allows for more intimate moments in scenic spots. This is also our windiest season so be prepared with warmer clothing!

3. Deciding who's coming (or not)

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:

• Just the two of you

• A few close friends/family

• A private ceremony now, celebration later

Tip: If you want to include loved ones without them being there in person, consider:

• Reading letters (or watching pre-recorded messages) from them during your elopement

• Live-streaming your vows (remember that not all locations in New Zealand will have cell reception)

• Sharing a photo album or video afterward during an post elopement celebration

4. Legal Requirements for Eloping in New Zealand

Eloping in New Zealand is simple when it comes to legalities. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Marriage License: You’ll need to apply for a marriage license from a New Zealand Registrar. This can be done online or at any Registrar’s office in the country. The license is valid for three months, so you’ll want to ensure you apply well in advance. When applying online you’ll be able to pay online, simplifying the process.

  
  

• Celebrant: 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.

5. Hiring Vendors (or Not!)

One of the joys of eloping is that you don’t need to worry about organizing a large wedding with lots of vendors. However, you can still hire a few professionals to make your day even more special if you want:

• Photographer/Videographer: A professional photographer or videographer can help you capture the magic of your elopement. Consider hiring someone who specializes in elopements, as they’ll know how to capture intimate moments in stunning locations. They’ll also have the elopement planning process in their back pocket making it as stress-free as possible! And choosing someone who is based locally will be in sync with how certain locations and weather systems work.

  
  

• Florist: If you want to include flowers in your elopement, hiring a local florist can add a beautiful personal touch. Some florists specialize in eco-friendly or foraged flowers.

  
  

• Hair & Makeup Artist: Some couples prefer to have their hair and makeup done professionally to ensure they look their best. Many makeup artists and hairstylists in New Zealand are experienced in elopement styling.

  
  

• Planner/Coordinator: While New Zealand is an easy country to navigate, you may prefer to hire an elopement planner or coordinator who knows the ins and outs of local laws, best venues, and logistics. They can also help you with hidden gems and remote locations you might not find on your own. (If you choose a photographer like myself you won’t need to add on this option as I will help you with all the planning and coordination with plenty of guides so you don’t have to worry about a thing.)

6. Elopement timeline example - simple and flexible

Your elopement doesn’t need to be 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. Here’s a simple example:

• 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

Pro Tip: Build in extra time for hiking, weather, or spontaneous joy!

7. Create Your Personal Elopement Experience

An elopement is all about the two of you, so make it as personal and unique as possible! Here are some ideas to incorporate:

• 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.

  
  

• Adventure: 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.

  
  

• Post-Elopement Celebration: 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.

8. Pack smart and plan for the elements

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...

Elopement essentials:

• Layers! (New Zealand weather can flip quick)

• Comfy hiking shoes + optional boots (heels) for photos

• Touch-up kit for makeup/hair (optional)

• Blanket for cozy portraits or snuggling

• Your vows + rings

• Champagne + a snack board - (heck, yes)

• Water bottles (staying hydrated is always important)

• Sunscreen (New Zealand has a hole in it's ozone layer which means you can get sunburnt so easily, even on a cloudy day). As an elopement photographer who values natural products this is by far my favourite SPF sunscreen that doesn't leave my skin all oily - Nature’s Sunscreen with Tallow and Carrot Seed Oil

• 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)

9. Budgeting for Your New Zealand Elopement

Elopements can be a budget-friendly option, but it can also 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.

• Accommodation: 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 vendor.

• Activities: 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.

10. Enjoy Your Elopement Day

Once everything is planned, all that’s left is to enjoy your elopement! Take time to savour every moment as you marry the love of your life in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. And don’t forget to explore the surrounding areas—you’re in New Zealand, after all, and there’s so much to see!

BONUS: Download Your Free Elopement Planning Guide

If you’re nodding along to this and thinking “This is what I want!” — I made something for you.

Grab my FREE Adventure Elopement Planner to start dreaming, organizing, and getting clear on your vision — without overwhelm: Download it here.

You deserve a wedding day that feels like you — adventurous, intentional, and wildly beautiful.

Let’s make it happen!