Planning your dream wedding can be a very thrilling yet intimidating experience. If you’re considering a destination that offers a blend of grand landscapes, luxurious settings, and adventure, look no further than my home, New Zealand! With my wedding photography experience, I am able to share with you this very insightful guide that will take you through the best places to tie the knot, offer planning tips from top local wedding planners, and connect you with the ideal vendors to help me beautifully capture the breathtaking essence of your New Zealand wedding. Woohoo!

Don’t forget to check out the bottom of this blog, where I mention a few honourable New Zealand venues I know and love.

Top Places and Regions to Get Married in New Zealand

New Zealand is the land of diverse beauty, offering every type of scenery you could ever dream of for your special day. You truly are spoilt for choice here! Here are some of the top regions I’ve had the pleasure of photographing in and that I think you should absolutely consider:

Queenstown

Imagine saying your vows on a snowy mountain-top, accessible only by helicopter!!! Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world, is perfect for couples seeking a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop. Whether it’s a winter wonderland or a summer paradise, Queenstown’s stunning landscapes will leave you and your guests’ jaws dropped to the floor! ⛰️

Auckland & Northland

For those who crave the sound of waves crashing as they exchange rings, or the hustle and bustle of urban scenes, Auckland and Northland offer luxurious metropolitan or beachside settings. From intimate ceremonies on the sands of Waiheke Island to grand celebrations in beachside resorts, these regions provide a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

Bay of Plenty

Sunny skies and golden beaches make the Bay of Plenty a wonderful choice for a laid-back yet beautiful wedding. The region is also known for its epic greenery and gardens, providing a beautiful range of stunning natural photo opportunities! 😍

Hawke’s Bay

If you love wine, then Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s picturesque winery capital, is your ideal wedding local spot. Vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, offering magical settings for both ceremonies and receptions. Imagine toasting to your new life together with local wines in such a serene environment! 🍇

Wellington

New Zealand’s windy but beautiful capital, Wellington, adds a touch of urban sophistication to your big day. The city boasts a vibrant mix of alternative, modern, and charming spots, offering stunning sea views that make for incredible wedding photos!

Nelson, Tasman & Marlborough

For those who love the idea of coastal beauty combined with handcrafted charm, the regions of Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough offer a stunning coast and lush landscapes. These areas are perfect for both intimate, bespoke weddings and the larger celebrations too.

Christchurch & Canterbury

In Christchurch and the Canterbury region, you’ll find both urban elegance and rural charm. Whether it’s a chic city venue or a tranquil countryside setting, you can have the best of both worlds in one location! This region is definitely one to consider! 💖

How to Best Plan Your New Zealand Wedding

Planning a wedding in New Zealand from afar can be challenging, but local wedding planners can make the process a super seamless and enjoyable experience for you. Here are two of the top wedding planners I know and love and think you should definitely consider:

Alexandra Kate Creative Studios

Alexandra Kate Creative specialises in creating bespoke weddings that reflect your unique story as a couple. Alexandra and her amazing team handle everything from venue selection to day-of coordination, ensuring that your wedding is as stress-free as possible! You will be in very safe and knowledgable hands. This awesome team are based in the stunning Queenstown.

“Our top recommendation for wedding planning is to listen to and trust your vendors. As professionals in their fields, you chose them for their expertise—allow them to leverage their creativity to bring your vision to life. Additionally, one of the most crucial steps is to book your wedding planner first. Your planner will have access to exclusive venues and a network of emerging vendors that align with your style and budget.”

— Alexandra, Alexandra Kate Creative Studios

https://www.alexandrakate.co.nz/

With Love Weddings and Events

Lisa from With Love Weddings and Events brings a wealth of experience and a personal touch to wedding planning. Her keen eye for detail and passion for creating memorable events make her an amazing choice for your New Zealand wedding! And not to mention, she doubles as an incredible celebrant too! A very kind woman of many talents 🥰 She is based in Auckland.

“Before you jump all in to the wedding planning process, take a moment to sit down with your significant other and identify what’s most important for your dream day. If it’s to have a relaxing experience, save time and money, then you may like to engage with a wedding planner. If it’s to have exceptional food, then this may impact your choice of venue. Or if it’s to have multiple events across a wedding weekend, this may mean a smaller guest list to ensure the budget can be spread across each event. Getting clear on what’s most important up front will help guide your decisions moving forward.“

— Lisa, With Love Weddings and Events

https://www.withloveweddings.co.nz/

Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer

Your wedding photos will be cherished memories for years to come, so it’s essential to choose a photographer who understands New Zealand’s landscapes and culture. If you’ve made it this far in my New Zealand Wedding Guide and appreciate my style, I would be honoured to hear from you. I’d love to learn about your wedding plans and discuss them further here.

Tips for Selecting a Photographer

• Portfolio: Review their portfolio to ensure their style aligns with your vision.
• Personality Fit: Make sure you vibe! I pride myself on becoming good friends with each and everyone of my couples and I look forward to making you feel the same way!

My Honourable Mentions for New Zealand Venues

There are so many incredible venues in New Zealand that it’s impossible to list them all. However, here are a few of my personal favourites:

• Te Mata House: Immerse yourself in a breathtaking private estate in Hawkes Bay, where luxurious garden views await. This historic building provides a captivating backdrop for your unforgettable wedding! https://www.tematahouse.co.nz/
• The Summer House: An exceptional venue you won’t want to miss, boasting one of the most stunning views in New Zealand 😍 This slice of paradise offers breathtaking views of both farm and sea, perfectly complemented by its amazing setting! https://thesummerhousenelson.com/
• Manakau Lodge: Nestled in the foothills of the stunning Mount Fyffe, I am excited to share with you the Manakau Lodge, where awe-inspiring panoramic views of the East Coast and the Kaikoura ranges await. You’ll also adore their incredible on-site accommodation! https://www.manakaulodge.com/
• Bayly’s Farm: A coastal wedding venue treat in the beautiful Bay of Islands, Northland. Bayly’s Farm is a very charming spot overlooking the sea, with plenty of space for your family and friends to join you in celebrating your special day! https://baylysfarm.co.nz/

Happy Planning!

New Zealand offers a bunch of stunning locations and professional services to make your wedding unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the snowy peaks of Queenstown, the sunny beaches of Northland, or the vineyards of Hawke’s Bay, there’s something for every single couple.

Ready to start planning your New Zealand wedding? Fill out my enquiry form here and take the first step toward your dream day. Woohoo! I can’t wait to talk with you soon!