A couple who broke lockdown rules to travel from Auckland to Wanaka have made their names public.

William Willis and Hannah Rawnsley say the decision they made to travel last week is completely irresponsible and inexcusable.

They say they've let everyone down with their actions and apologise to the Wanaka community, and all New Zealanders for what they did.

Meanwhile, William Willis's mother - District Court Judge Mary-Beth Sharp -, says she was appalled to learn of of her son and his partner’s actions.

She says she's highly embarrassed ... and if she knew their intentions, she would have told them not to act so thoughtlessly and selfishly.