Designed for couples seeking a blend of adventure, indulgence, and intimate moments in Queenstown’s stunning natural setting. Each day blends breathtaking adventures, intimate moments, and indulgent experiences that allow you to fully embrace the beauty of Queenstown while reconnecting with each other. Nestled in the heart of this adventure capital, Hulbert House serves as your elegant and tranquil home base, offering unmatched hospitality and charm.
Day 1: Arrival & Intimate Dining
Afternoon
Arrival at Hulbert House and unpack
Arrive at Hulbert House where the warmth and charm of the historic house greet you as soon as you step through the doors. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of chilled Central Otago Quartz Reef Methode Traditionalle, setting the tone for a romantic retreat filled with thoughtful touches and luxurious comforts. The attentive team at Hulbert House will ensure your arrival is seamless, helping you settle into your elegant suite, which offers stunning views over Lake Whakatipu or the surrounding mountains, including The Remarkables. The refined décor, plush bedding, and serene ambience create a peaceful sanctuary for you and your partner to relax in.
After settling in, take a stroll through Hulbert House’s beautifully manicured gardens or relax in one of the wicker chairs on the verandah. The gardens are in full bloom during spring, with colourful flowers and fresh greenery framing picturesque views. This peaceful setting offers a perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy some quiet moments together, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Capture a few photos amidst the spring blossoms, making memories of the first day of your romantic escape.
Evening
Dinner at Nest
As the sun sets, prepare for an unforgettable dining experience at Nest, the intimate and luxurious fine-dining restaurant. Just a short drive from Hulbert House, Nest’s cosy and ambient atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening. Soft lighting, elegant table settings, and attentive service create an inviting space where you can focus on each other and the exquisite dishes being served.
The menu showcases the finest seasonal produce from Central Otago, with artfully presented dishes that highlight the region’s culinary treasures. From tender lamb and fresh seafood to innovative vegetarian creations, each course is paired with exceptional local wines, allowing you to fully savour the flavours of Queenstown. As you share a gourmet meal in this intimate setting, you’ll find it the perfect way to begin your romantic getaway.
After dinner, asked to be dropped in town, enjoying the energy of Queenstown and the glimmering reflection of the lake beneath the night sky.
Day 2: Scenic Exploration & Rejuvenation
Morning
After a restful night in your luxurious suite, wake up to a gourmet breakfast at Hulbert House. The breakfast menu offers a variety of freshly prepared options, from delicate pastries and fresh fruit to eggs cooked to your liking, all served in the charming Palm Lounge or request to enjoy the views of the surrounding gardens from the verandah.
Scenic drive to Glenorchy and Helicopter Flight
For a romantic morning, set off on one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives to Glenorchy, located about an hour from Queenstown. The winding road hugs the edge of Lake Whakatipu, offering panoramic views of the water and mountains, with spring flowers adding a pop of colour to the already breathtaking landscape. It’s the perfect journey for couples who love nature and a sense of discovery.
Upon arriving in Glenorchy, embark on an unforgettable heli-scenic flight with Heli Glenorchy. This luxurious experience takes you over the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park, where you’ll marvel at towering cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and rugged coastlines from the sky. The helicopter will land in a remote alpine location, where a private champagne picnic awaits you and your partner. Amidst the stunning beauty of the untouched wilderness, you’ll enjoy a secluded moment together, sipping champagne and savouring gourmet treats in the fresh mountain air.
Afternoon
Indulgence at Body Sanctum Spa
After your heli-adventure, return to Queenstown for a luxurious afternoon of relaxation. Book a couple’s spa treatment at Body Sanctum Spa, known for its personalised and indulgent services. Choose from a range of treatments designed to soothe and rejuvenate, from deep-tissue massages to hydrating facials. The tranquil spa environment and expert therapists ensure that you’ll both leave feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready for the next chapter of your romantic getaway.
If you prefer, you can spend a quiet afternoon back at Hulbert House, lounging in the garden or by the fireplace with tea and treats, allowing the peaceful atmosphere to recharge you after your morning’s adventure.
Evening
Dinner at a locals secret
For dinner, head to The Bunker, one of Queenstown’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem exudes a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening. The rustic, alpine-inspired interiors are cosy and inviting, with a roaring fire and low lighting that create a sense of seclusion and comfort. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in the upstairs lounge before sitting down to a superb meal that showcases modern New Zealand cuisine, featuring local ingredients like wild venison, fresh seafood, and artisanal cheeses.
The Bunker’s carefully curated wine list complements the flavours of your meal, offering a selection of the finest regional wines. After dinner, enjoy the warmth of the fire or take a short walk to Eichardts Bar for a nightcap, revelling in the cosy, intimate experience you’ve shared.
Day 3: Romantic Hot Air Balloon Ride & Wine Tasting
Morning
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Start the day with a truly magical experience—a romantic hot air balloon ride over Queenstown with Sunrise Balloons. As you ascend into the early morning sky, watch as the landscape below is bathed in the golden light of sunrise. The peaceful silence of floating above the earth allows you to take in the sweeping views of Lake Whakatipu, the Remarkables, and the rolling hills of Central Otago. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that creates unforgettable memories for you and your partner as you drift through the sky together.
Upon returning to Hulbert House, indulge in a decadent breakfast, lingering over fresh pastries, local jams, and gourmet coffee in the comfort of the Palm Lounge. Or will it be a cooked breakfast after admiring our menu? The serene environment of Hulbert House makes breakfast feel like a special occasion, with the opportunity to reflect on your incredible morning.
Afternoon
Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley
Spend the afternoon exploring some of Central Otago’s renowned wineries. Start with a private tasting at Peregrine Winery, known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and stunning architecture. Continue your wine journey with stops at boutique vineyards such as Mt Rosa and Gibbston Valley Winery, where you can enjoy private tours and tastings of locally produced wines, from crisp Chardonnays to rich Pinot Noirs.
For a more personalised experience, hire a private driver to whisk you between the vineyards, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views and each other’s company without any worry about logistics. Between tastings, stop for a long leisurely lunch at Amisfield Bistro, where the seasonal menu is designed to pair perfectly with the estate’s wines.
If you’d prefer a slower pace, head back to Queenstown Gardens for a peaceful walk among the colourful spring blooms. The team at Hulbert House can arrange a picnic hamper filled with artisanal treats, which you can enjoy together on the banks of Lake Whakatipu, taking in the fresh spring air and tranquil surroundings.
Evening
Dinner, Dessert and Bath Butler
For your final evening and after an early start to the day’s adventures, there’s nothing more appealing than a quiet, cosy night in at Hulbert House. As the sun sets, retreat to the verandah for a relaxed dinner, where the team has arranged a delicious meal from Pedro’s House of Lamb. Enjoy the tender, slow-roasted lamb served with rich scalloped potatoes and a fresh salad, perfectly paired with your favourite Central Otago Pinot Noir—a souvenir from your vineyard explorations earlier in the day. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Hulbert House’s gardens, it’s the ideal way to unwind and reflect on your Queenstown journey.
As the evening deepens and the stars begin to appear, quietly mention to the team your craving for our renowned adult ice cream sundae—a luxurious indulgence that’s hard to resist. Within moments, it’s elegantly served on the verandah, a decadent blend of creamy ice cream, rich chocolate, and indulgent toppings. Paired with a smooth dessert wine, the experience becomes a sweet finale to your peaceful night in.
With dinner and dessert savoured leisurely over the evening, the perfect way to end your final night at Hulbert House is by indulging in the luxurious Bath Butler experience. The team has prepared a serene oasis in your suite’s elegant clawfoot tub, adorned with fragrant flower petals and surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight. A selection of sensual oils and Himalayan bath salts invite you to relax deeply, while the gentle scent of the room sets a romantic mood. With a glass of champagne or a soothing herbal tea in hand, you and your partner can immerse yourselves in this tranquil, intimate moment together. This pampering experience ensures your stay ends with a sense of deep connection, rest, and unforgettable romance.
Day 4: Scenic Cruise & Farewell
Morning
On your final morning, enjoy a light breakfast at Hulbert House before heading to the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a cruise on Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak. As you stand on the bow for your ‘Kate and Leo’ Titanic moment, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve shared. A private guide can be arranged to escort you on a more personalised tour, ensuring you learn about the history and significance of the area while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the lake. After the cruise, return to Hulbert House for one last quiet moment in the garden or a cup of tea by the fire before checking out.
As your four romantic days in Queenstown come to an end, the memories of your time at Hulbert House will linger long after you depart. From the tranquil moments spent in the blossoming gardens to the intimate dinners, wine tasting and an early start, every experience has been crafted to bring you closer together. The warmth of Hulbert House, combined with the beauty of Queenstown in spring, has offered the perfect backdrop for relaxation, connection, and indulgence. As you leave this haven, you’ll carry with you not just the sights and flavours of your journey, but the unforgettable feeling of having shared something truly special.