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The First Kiss Hotel Ashburton, Mid Canterbury Hotel Ashburton, Mid Canterbury
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Sim75' (Simon Lane Photography)
By Hotel Ashburton, Mid Canterbury By Hotel Ashburton, Mid Canterbury

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Sara Essig Webb
Yes, they loved the Seychelles. But as royal rumour has it, Will and Kate always wanted a New Zealand honeymoon.
Given the palatial stress that comes with a royal wedding, it’s only fitting that the sought-after couple should have not only one honeymoon . . . but two.
Here’s what (rumour has it) the young royals had in mind.
Day 1 (morning) – Arrive in Christchurch
Their hearts were touched by the earthquake-affected city; a trip together is one way to show how much they care.
Day 1 (afternoon) – Following their Garden City tour, Will and Kate (in a private coach) travel one hour south to New Zealand’s true heartland – Mid Canterbury. It’s a quick but scenic trip, taking in views to sun setting behind the Southern Alps.
They arrive at dusk in Ashburton township, beyond the radar of the paparazzi and basking in the tranquillity of rural New Zealand.
The Ashburton Hotel is an iconic local establishment, and there is no better choice for visiting royalty.
The Hotel has 34 Superior Rooms; their king suite is complete with New Zealand beech joinery, a mini bar, SKY TV and direct garden access.
The generous space and peaceful setting allows the honeymooners to consider Day 2 options – a balloon safari, heritage garden tours or a heli-picnic at Mt Hutt.
It may also give them time to discover that Ashburton Hotel is actually one of Mid Canterbury’s most popular wedding venues (just a thought for ‘later on,’ if they decide to celebrate a special anniversary by renewing their vows).
In the meantime they will discover Mid Canterbury, which from ocean to Alps, with braided rivers and high country stations, alpine lakes and patchwork plains, holds all the reasons Will and Kate longed for a New Zealand honeymoon - and none of the fuss.
There are so many ways to Experience Mid Canterbury - fantastic places to stay and people to meet.
It’s easy to book accommodationand plan your visit – find Mid Canterbury visitor informationhere.