QUEENSTOWN ELOPEMENT: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR 2024
WHILE WE CHERISH WEDDINGS OF EVERY SIZE, ELOPEMENTS CAPTURE OUR HEARTS LIKE NO OTHER.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Queenstown, New Zealand—an iconic spot for romantic elopements—we've gathered our extensive experience and local knowledge to bring you the Ultimate Queenstown Elopement Guide. This all-encompassing resource is designed to simplify your elopement planning. Inside, you'll find invaluable tips to reduce stress, insights from couples who've eloped, including my wife Louise and I, and expert advice on how we can help you celebrate your love amidst the stunning natural beauty of Queenstown.
Discover how to make your dream elopement in Queenstown a reality with our guide.
What is eloping and why should we consider it?
Eloping is an intimate and adventurous way to tie the knot, focusing solely on the love and commitment between you and your partner. It's about choosing a beautiful location that resonates with you both, and creating a special moment without the complexities of a traditional wedding. Eloping allows you to be fully present with each other, cherishing the simplicity and significance of your union.
While eloping often conjures images of secret getaways, it doesn't have to be just the two of you. Some couples choose to bring along a few close friends or family members, creating a small, intimate ceremony. This type of elopement, sometimes referred to as an 'intimate wedding,' keeps the guest list minimal, ensuring that the focus remains on your love story. Whether it's a handful of your closest people or just you two, eloping can be a deeply personal and memorable experience.
There are many reasons why couples decide to elope, each as unique as their relationship. For some, it's about the desire to exchange vows in a breathtaking location without the logistical and financial challenges of a large wedding. Eloping can be a cost-effective alternative, allowing you to spend more on what truly matters to you, whether it's an unforgettable honeymoon or future plans together.
Others elope to avoid the stress and expectations that often accompany traditional weddings. Eloping simplifies the process, making it less about pleasing a crowd and more about celebrating your connection. With fewer details to worry about, you can focus on what truly matters: your love for each other. Eloping offers a sense of freedom and adventure, giving you the opportunity to craft a wedding experience that is uniquely yours.
Why choose Queenstown for your elopement?
Why Queenstown? All I can say is “Why not Queenstown?”
Let me paint you a picture. Imagine saying "I do" surrounded by towering mountains like The Remarkables, crystal-clear lakes like Lake Wakatipu, or huge open valleys like Coromandel Peak. Queenstown is an elopement photographer’s dream, with so many unique and incredible backdrops you can achieve a huge variety of photos in a short amount of time.
Queenstown is not just about the breathtaking views; it's also a playground for adventure seekers. From skydiving (I was an instructor for 15 years) and skiing, to helicopter rides and jet boating, there's no shortage of exciting activities to add a dash of thrill to your romantic adventure either before or after you say “I do.”
ELOPING ISN'T SETTLING FOR LESS;
IT'S SOARING FOR MORE.
Best time to elope in Queenstown
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to eloping in Queenstown. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best season for your special day:
Summer : Summer in Queenstown is BUZZING! The warm weather vibes are real. It’s not only a great time of year to heli into the mountains for your wedding ceremony but it’s also great for the adventurous activities in town. The warm Queenstown summer’s are perfect for spending more time on the mountain tops looking down at the pristine blue lakes without freezing your butts off. And after your adventure elopement you can grab yourself some dinner at one of Queenstown’s world class restaurants, or simply grab a Ferg Burger and find yourself a nice quiet spot down by the lake to watch a phenomenal Queenstown sunset, which doesn’t set until nearly 10pm in the Summer!
Autumn : Fall in Queenstown is a riot of red, orange, and yellow. The autumn foliage provides a unique and colourful backdrop for your elopement, making your photos look like a work of art. We have some incredible locations that we take couples to to really capture the beauty of Autumn. Some beautiful locations for your ceremony or for couples portraits after the ceremony are Arrowtown and Lake Hayes. If this is something that sounds incredible to you, let us know and we’ll plan the perfect Autumn elopement for you in all it’s colourful glory.
Winter : Dreaming of a winter wonderland? Queenstown in winter is a snowy paradise. Picture-perfect snowy mountains and a cozy atmosphere create a truly romantic and enchanting experience. Although the helicopter elopements can be a little chilly, it’s well worth it for the AMAZING snowy mountain views. The combination of pure white snow with the bright blue lakes and deep blue sky, is truly magnificent and your elopement photos will be nothing short of breathtaking.
After your intimate wedding be sure to head up to one of Queenstown’s great ski fields for a skiing adventure or just to sip on a mulled wine and watch the locals shredding it up.Spring : Spring in Queenstown is possibly our favourite time of year. The weather is very changeable due to our alpine environment. It can be snowy one day, and sunny and hot the next, but generally the sun is warm and the air is crisp. The world famous blossoms are blooming which makes for some unbelievably romantic photographs. The great thing about Spring is that Queenstown tends to be a lot more quiet and you get a real feel of Queenstown without the crowds.
Top elopement locations in Queenstown
Now, let's talk about some of the most beautiful spots to tie the knot in Queenstown:
HELI-ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS:
Coromandel Peak: This place offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of Lake Wanaka. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a mix of mountains and water in your backdrop. When taking elopement photos here I love to use a combination of wide angle and tight lenses to really show all the amazing angles and vast open views of Coromandel Peak and Lake Wanaka.
The Remarkables: If you’re the adventurous type, The Remarkables provide a dramatic and rugged mountain backdrop. It’s ideal for those who want their elopement to be as awe-inspiring as the scenery. The Remarkables are the highest mountains in Queenstown for you to fly the heli to. This makes for incredible heli-wedding photos of your ceremony and breathtaking couples photos after.
Cecil Peak: Cecil Peak looks over Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown with stunning views all year round. The famous ledge at Cecil Peak is amazing for elopement photography and is also the perfect place to plan a surprise proposal!
Big Geordie/Mount Crichton: Big Geordie offers outstanding views towards Glenorchy and the Dart Valley. With yellow tussocks and blue lake views this location is one of my favourites for elopement photography.
Lake Erskine: With crystal clear water and snowy peaked mountains. Lake Erskine is a truly unique and magical location for your intimate elopement wedding.
GROUND LOCATIONS:
Deer Park Heights: A guaranteed epic location for your elopement is Deer Park Heights. Offering helicopter views without the helicopter, this location is my absolute favourite for ground locations. It does come with an additional cost so keep this in mind.
Lake Wakatipu: For a serene and tranquil ceremony, Lake Wakatipu is your go-to spot. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking. We have a variety of places on the lake that we take our couple to, all offering different backdrops.
The Remarkables: If you’re the adventurous type, The Remarkables provide a dramatic and rugged mountain backdrop. It’s ideal for those who want their elopement to be as awe-inspiring as the scenery.
Coronet Peak and Skippers Canyon: For an amazing view looking over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables, Coronet Peak is a favourite for couples wanting elevated views for their elopement. The beauty about this location is its close proximity to Skippers Canyon which has some epic canyon views straight out of Lord Of The Rings. This is a firm favourite for surprise proposals too.
Arrowtown: In Autumn, Arrowtown is alive with fiery reds, yellows and oranges. If you love the idea of eloping by a pristine river surrounded by amazing colours, then Arrowtown is for you. One of my favourites for taking amazingly alive elopement photos.
Make Lake: Make Lake is an incredible lake that can often look like a mirror. Its unique horseshoe shape makes this mirror an outstanding backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Even when the lake isn’t glassy, the close mountains make for incredible elopement photography.
What we offer for your dream
Queenstown elopement
My wife Louise and I are passionate about creating the perfect day for you and your partner. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of serene lakesides or majestic mountain vistas. We offer personalised ceremonies that reflect your unique love story, captured in beautiful photographs. For those seeking adventure, we can arrange thrilling helicopter rides or secluded lake side views. With us, every detail is thoughtfully handled, allowing you to focus on the joy and romance of your special day, making your dream elopement truly unforgettable.
All of our elopement packages include:
A personal elopement planner to organise your perfect elopement experience so you can relax, lift up your feet and float downstream
Professional photography
Professionally edited photographs delivered in a beautiful online gallery, edited in colour with a selection of black and whites
An amazing Queenstown celebrant
Witnesses
A bottle of Central Otago bubbles to toast your elopement
Unlimited support via email
Sneak peek photographs within 48 hours
Transport for 2 people
Optional highlight film addition
A brief overview of our all-inclusive
Queenstown elopement packages
THE ESSENTIALS PACKAGE
The essentials elopement package is perfect for exploring one of Queenstown’s ground locations for your intimate wedding. Every detail of your wedding day is expertly organised and customised to reflect your unique vision.
THE EPIC ADVENTURE PACKAGE
The Epic Adventure Package is for couples who want to leave the ground and fly a helicopter to an incredible location to say “I do.”
Every aspect of your adventure heli wedding is meticulously planned so you can simply relax, soak in the breathtaking views and enjoy your perfect elopement together.
THE ULTIMATE ELOPEMENT
The Ultimate Elopement Package is for couples who have pure adventure running through their veins. This 4 hour elopement is perfect for capturing all of the details of your day, from getting ready, first look, ceremony, and flying to multiple locations to capture some incredible photographs of you both together on your perfect adventure wedding day.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
We’ve also partnered with Queenstown’s top wedding and elopement vendors to offer amazing add-on’s such as: incredible flower bouquets and buttonholes, bridal hair and makeup, elopement cakes, and additional helicopter locations and adventures.
We love the idea of eloping in Queenstown, but we want our loved ones involved…
Involving friends and family in your intimate elopement ceremony can make it even more special and memorable. Start by inviting a few loved ones to join you at the ceremony location if it's feasible. All of our ground locations can have guests attend with ease. We can also arrange seperate helicopters if you want your loved ones there on top of a mountain. They can be a part of the day by playing key roles like being witnesses, or reading personalised vows or messages. You could also ask friends and family to send in video messages or letters that you can read during the ceremony, adding a personal touch to the event. After the ceremony, share the moment by having a virtual toast with your loved ones, celebrating together no matter the distance. This way, even though your elopement is small and intimate, it feels like everyone you care about is right there with you.
Legal requirements for Queenstown elopements
To legally elope in Queenstown, New Zealand, you need to follow these steps:
Marriage License: Apply for a marriage license at least three working days before your wedding date. Applications can be submitted online or in person at a registry office.
Registered Celebrant: Choose a registered celebrant to officiate your ceremony. A list of registered celebrants can be found on the New Zealand Government’s website.
Witnesses: You will need two witnesses present at your ceremony who are over the age of 18.
Documentation: Provide valid identification such as passports, and if applicable, proof of dissolution of any previous marriages.
What to bring when eloping in Queenstown
Your elopement date is approaching so here are a few tips to make you as comfortable as possible.
Often, it's the small details that can enhance your experience, so being well-prepared is key. Although you can find these essentials in Queenstown, having them with you will save you the hassle of last-minute shopping.
If your outdoor adventure wedding is lakeside, don't forget to pack insect repellent. This will help keep the sandflies at bay, those little guys can really be a buzzkill (pun totally intended.)
For those who are sensitive to pollen, it's wise to bring antihistamines. Queenstown's spring season can have high pollen levels, and having allergy relief on hand can make a significant difference.
And if you are planning a longer elopement celebration, just be aware that the Queenstown sun can be pretty harsh all year round so it’s a nice idea to bring a small travel sunscreen with you.
For winter trips, it's important to pack plenty of warm clothing. A quality jacket and merino wool layers will help you stay warm in the cold temperatures of the Queenstown mountains. Even during other seasons, the evenings can get quite chilly, so having extra layers is always a good idea. If you're getting married in the winter or visiting a glacier, consider bringing a pair of nude stockings to wear under your dress for added warmth.
Lastly, don't forget to pack comfortable attire and sturdy footwear. This will allow you to fully enjoy your time and explore Queenstown without discomfort. You can always just wear your hiking shoes to get you to that dreamy view, then pop on your wedding shoes for the ceremony or for couple photos.
If you are flying into Queenstown for your wedding, there are some beautiful wedding dress hire options and men’s suit options at Nemo Bridal. so check them out here!
Queenstown accomodation for your elopement trip
Queenstown boasts a diverse array of accommodation options, catering to every budget and preference, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your elopement. Whether you're seeking a central stay in the heart of town, a glamping experience in the mountains, a charming paradise hut, or a luxurious five-star hotel or lodge, Queenstown has it all. For those who prefer a more personalized touch, numerous Airbnb options are also available. With such an abundance of choices, selecting the ideal accommodation can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this, we recommend exploring our curated list of the best centrally located suburbs and scenic views in Queenstown, tailored to enhance your elopement experience.
Eichardt's Private Hotel - Located in the heart of Queenstown, this luxury hotel offers stunning lake views and top-notch service, perfect for an opulent stay.
Azur Lodge - Nestled on a hillside, Azur Lodge provides a secluded and romantic setting with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.
Matakauri Lodge - A few minutes’ drive from Queenstown, this luxury lodge offers a serene escape with its elegant suites and cottages, all featuring spectacular views of the lake and mountains.
The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments - Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, The Rees offers a mix of hotel rooms and apartments, providing comfort and luxury with magnificent lake and mountain views.
Sherwood Queenstown - An eco-friendly hotel that blends sustainability with style, offering cozy rooms, organic food, and a peaceful atmosphere on the outskirts of town.
Airbnb Options - From lakeside apartments to mountain chalets, Airbnb in Queenstown offers a variety of unique and intimate spaces, allowing you to find a home away from home.
Paradise Trust - This unbelievably beautiful location in Glenorchy is my personal favourite for accomodation in the Wakatipu. If super rustic huts are your jam then this is for you. They have a main house to stay in with power and common luxuries, or you can really get into the wild for your elopement accomodation by staying in one of the incredibly scenic yet huts on the property.
Rent a campervan! - Want to add even more adventure to your Queenstown elopement adventure? Why not hire a campervan to travel around before or after your wedding?!
By considering these recommendations, you can find the perfect accommodation to complement your elopement and create lasting memories in Queenstown.
Final thoughts
Eloping in Queenstown, New Zealand, promises a unique and unforgettable experience for couples seeking adventure, natural beauty, and romance. Whether you dream of a mountaintop ceremony or a lakeside celebration, Queenstown has something magical to offer. Embrace the adventure, cherish the moments, and create lasting memories in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
By choosing Queenstown for your elopement, you are not only selecting a stunning location but also embarking on a journey filled with excitement, beauty, and love. Let the majestic landscapes and vibrant culture of Queenstown enhance your special day, making it a truly extraordinary intimate elopement wedding.
Ready for us to start planning your perfect Queenstown elopement?
Get in touch below, we’d love to hear all your ideas!