New Zealand has been voted the dream honeymoon destination by 5.5 million Americans live on the USA Today Show.

At the same time, across the Atlantic New Zealand took a top tourism destination award in the UK Guardian, Observer and Guardian Unlimited Travel Awards.
The American, Today Show followed up the win by sending the Californian newly weds straight to New Zealand they arrive today.

The Today Shows annual "Today Throws a Wedding" programme asked viewers to vote for each aspect of a wedding, televised live on the show; from the couple, to hairstyle, dress, ring design and honeymoon.

Viewers from the USA and around the world voted online for New Zealand beating destinations such as Barbados, Vietnam, and Peru.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says such a high profile win in New Zealands second and third biggest markets is worth millions of dollars for New Zealand.

With the mass of media in the US and UK we are continually challenged with how to keep up our profile recognition such as this is something we just couldnt pay for.

Mr Hickton said to know New Zealand was chosen by popular vote in both cases makes it even more rewarding.

In the UK, New Zealand was voted best Long Haul destination at the Guardian, Observer and Guardian Unlimited Travel Awards ceremony held in Cape Town.

15,000 people are estimated to have voted in the UK run awards, with New Zealand beating destinations such as Australia, Japan and The Maldives.

The American honeymooners Molly and Jason from Play del Rev in California were married live on air before flying to New Zealand to start a seven day itinerary including Kauri Cliffs Lodge Bay of Islands, Whare Kea Lodge Wanaka and Eichardts in Queenstown.