Getting Married at Mudbrick Estate
A Photographer’s Guide to the Perfect Waiheke Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a romantic escape - surrounded by vineyards, overlooking the sea, and bathed in golden light - Mudbrick Estate on Waiheke Island might just be your perfect venue.
As a wedding photographer and videographer based in Auckland, New Zealand we’ve had the privilege of capturing countless celebrations at Mudbrick Vineyard. It’s one of the most sought-after wedding venues in New Zealand, and for good reason. Whether you're envisioning a relaxed, intimate elopement or a large, elegant gathering, Mudbrick delivers that magic blend of natural beauty and timeless elegance.
Why Choose Mudbrick Estate for Your Wedding
Mudbrick is more than a venue - it’s a complete celebration experience. Located on the western side of Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from Auckland, it offers sweeping views across the Hauraki Gulf, beautiful gardens, and world-class food and wine.
Couples love Mudbrick for its:
Cinematic Scenery: With rolling vineyards, lavender gardens, and a panoramic ocean backdrop, your photos will look unbelievable.
Versatile Spaces: Choose from multiple ceremony locations at The Lodge, including an indoor and outdoor option, the tuscan inspired restaurant to host your reception celebrations and the intimate Archive Bar & Bistro for a rehearsal dinner or day after recover lunch.
Luxury touches: On-site accommodation, exceptional service, and curated wedding packages make planning a breeze.
What to Expect on the Day
Planning a wedding at Mudbrick Estate comes with the peace of knowing your day is in expert hands. From a photography perspective, the flow of the day feels effortless and gives us so many beautiful opportunities to capture those authentic, in-between moments.
Ceremony Locations:
Mudbrick offers a few ceremony settings, each with its own charm. The Lodge patio is popular for its sweeping views across the vineyards and out to the water - an unbeatable backdrop for your vows. For something more intimate, the indoor courtyard adds a natural, romantic feel, especially when dappled sunlight filters through the covered space.
Reception Spaces:
Whether you're planning a big celebration or a smaller gathering, Mudbrick has something for everyone.
The Main Restaurant exudes rustic elegance, with timber interiors, a fireplace, and panoramic views.
The Archive Bar & Bistro offers a more intimate, moody atmosphere—perfect for elopements or smaller groups.
For ultimate privacy and luxury, The Lodge or The Mudbrick Residences offer accommodation and event spaces all in one.
Guest Experience
Waiheke is an easy 35-45 minute ferry from downtown Auckland, but once you're here, it feels like a slow-paced, relaxed town. Mudbrick offers on-site accommodation, and there are plenty of boutique stays nearby for guests. Most couples organise group transport or shuttles, which helps everyone relax and enjoy the wine!
Consider capturing the behind the scenes experience and unique guest experience
Photographer’s Perspective: Capturing the celebrations
From a creative standpoint, Mudbrick is a dream to shoot at. Every corner is a photo opportunity - from the vineyard rows and weathered brick pathways to the dramatic ocean views at sunset.
Best Photo Spots:
The upper restaurant patio for intimate portraits on sunset.
Among the flower gardens for for intimate portraits - especially in summer when the light is warm and soft.
The lower entrance steps for bridal party celebrations.
The garden terrace for arvo cocktail vibes.
Timing Tips: If you want those magical golden hour photos, we’ll work together to plan your timeline so we can sneak away for 10-15 minutes before sunset. It’s always worth it.
Weather Watch: Waiheke weather can be changeable, but Mudbrick has excellent indoor options, and even moody skies look dramatic here. We’re always prepared with backup plans.
Tips for Couples Planning a Mudbrick Wedding
Book early: Mudbrick is one of the most popular venues on Waiheke - especially for summer and autumn weddings - so secure your date well in advance.
Plan around the light: Mudbrick provide a set schedule which works well year round, however talk to your photographer early about ceremony timing to make the most of that epic natural light.
Trust the team: Mudbrick’s wedding coordinators are experienced and attentive, and they know the venue inside-out.
Add local flair: Incorporate local wines, seasonal florals, or even a helicopter arrival (yes, it’s a thing!) to make your day extra memorable.
Real Wedding Inspiration
One of our favourite weddings at Mudbrick was Sophie & Andy’s spring celebration. The modern styling, early post-winter light, and candlelit reception created the most incredible vibe. The couple opted for an indoor courtyard ceremony despite the beautiful weather to provide intimacy, and we captured some unforgettable moments alongside the bridal party during our photo session before sunset.
”Tom was a dream to work with. He’s professional, conversational and immediately makes everyone around him feel at ease. We had him photograph our wedding and could not imagine to the day without him, immediately setting the tone for an unforgettably fun day. Tom captured not only the important moments, but all the moments in-between in a way that feels truly authentic and not at all contrived, which has allowed us to relive the day several times over. We could go on and on, but to summarise, we could not recommend Tom and the Hollow & Co team more highly to photograph any significant moment in your life.”
- Sophie & Andy
Why We Love Shooting at Mudbrick
Mudbrick holds a special place in our hearts. Every wedding here feels unique, but what stays the same is the feeling - timeless, relaxed, and fantastic party. We love helping couples soak it all in, while we quietly capture every laugh, tear, and spontaneous dance move.
Whether it’s your first visit to Waiheke or a spot you’ve always loved, Mudbrick is the kind of place that just feels like magic.
Let’s CELEBRATE TOGETHER
If you’re planning a wedding at Mudbrick Estate and looking for a wedding photographer & videographer who knows the island inside and out and has experience shooting at Mudbrick, we’d love to chat. Our approach is relaxed and our style is editorial. We capture real weddings for real couples.
Hollow & Co. is an editorial wedding photographer and videographer based in Auckland, New Zealand specialising in the capture of wedding ceremonies and celebrations in an authentic and classic style.