We have travelled and captured weddings across the globe and when it comes to destination wedding locations, New Zealand is abundant. From the epic mountain peaks of Wanaka to the gently sloping vineyard estates of the Hawkes Bay, we are truely spoilt.
On your wedding day you want to share a glass of champagne in the sun, slow down and enjoy the intimacy of your ceremony and celebrate late into the night with friends & family. Add on a casual rehearsal bbq the day prior and a recovery brunch the day after and you’ve created a multi-day holiday and an unforgettable experience for yourselves and your guests.
Planning a wedding on Waiheke Island?
Here are six reasons why we believe Waiheke Island, Auckland is one of the best wedding destinations in New Zealand to celebrate and host your wedding.
Location.
“Slow down, you’re here.“
The infamous road sign that greets travellers as they arrive on Waiheke Island. There’s a relaxed and slow vibe that makes you feel far removed from the city and yet close enough for convenient travel.
Surrounded by white sand beaches, vineyard estates, local cafes (Akito, Arcadia and Charlie Farley’s are our favourites) and some of the best restaurants in NZ (try Casita Miro, Three Seven Two and Poderi Crisci) your guests are going to feel like they’re on honeymoon too!
We love that although it’s not far from town, you’ll be transported somewhere completely different at every spot on the island.
Logistics.
Keeping things simple makes a big difference when planning your wedding - that’s why travel is important to factor in.
With the passenger ferry from Auckland City taking less than an hour & plenty of accommodation on the island for an overnight stay, Waiheke makes for a smooth trip to your wedding.
Passenger ferry - 35-45 minutes from downtown Auckland
Vehicle ferry - 1 hour from Half Moon Bay, East Auckland
Taxi and bus transportation is readily available
Vehicle hire is available from Matiatia Ferry Terminal
Oneroa is the central location for accomodation and venues
Weather.
Waiheke Island has a microclimate which makes it an opportune location for great weather in New Zealand.
We have often been shooting a wedding at Mudbrick and have clear skies overhead whilst Auckland city experiences rain.
Whether you’re getting married in the heat of summer or planning a winter wedding, the geo-location of Waiheke means it often escapes the unpredictability of weather compared to the main land.
Venues.
There’s no doubt that Waiheke Island boasts a range of top-tier wedding venues, perfect for hosting intimate ceremonies and outrageous parties.
No matter what your style is, Waiheke will have a space that suits you. Some of our favourite weddings venues for larger gatherings include Mudbrick Vineyard, Man O' War, Tantalus, Goldie Estate, Waikopou and Poderi Crisci. Venues specifically catered towards smaller groups and elopement style weddings include Putiki Estate, Castia Miro, Mawhiti and Delamore Lodge.
Accommodation.
Make a holiday out of your wedding celebration at Waiheke Island. Staying on the island is bliss with so many options for accommodation available.
Book a large house for a family group (Putiki, Puriri or Mawhiti) or an intimate boutique room for two (Delamore Lodge or Villino at Cypress Ridge). You’ll be spoilt for choice.
Accomodation options range allowing guests to book and stay on the island. Waiheke Island makes for the ultimate go-to when it comes to weddings. Great weather, stunning venues & epic stays, it’s safe to say you’ll love getting wed on Waiheke.
Adventure.
Wining, dining & zip-lining… Waiheke Island has no shortage of things to do, keeping your guests entertained either side of the wedding celebrations. We encourage you to explore the island, either by car, bike or boat. Things worth checking out are Te Matuku Oyster Farm, Waiheke Distilling Co, Onetangi Beach and Stoney Batter.
Hollow & Co. is a fine art wedding photographer & videographer based in Auckland, New Zealand. Having captured hundreds of weddings on Waiheke Island, Hollow & Co. offer experience and advice when it comes to planning a destination wedding on Waiheke Island.
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