There’s a reason Queenstown and Wanaka are two of New Zealand’s most coveted wedding destinations. Nestled among alpine peaks, sparkling lakes, and world-renowned vineyards, these towns offer a breathtaking backdrop for couples dreaming of a romantic and adventurous celebration. As a wedding photographer and videographer based in Aotearoa, I’ve been lucky enough to capture love stories in these stunning locales - each one as unforgettable as the landscapes themselves.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Queenstown or Wanaka, here’s everything you need to know - plus some insight into my favourite venues to photograph.
Why Queenstown or Wanaka?
These South Island gems are more than just beautiful - they’re destinations packed with atmosphere, world-class hospitality, and once-in-a-lifetime views. Whether you're envisioning an intimate elopement or a full-scale celebration, you’ll find the ideal mix of sophistication and serenity here. From the historic charm of vineyard estates to lakeside vows at golden hour, Queenstown and Wanaka offer endless photo-worthy moments.
Top Venues We Love Capturing Weddings At
Winehouse, Queenstown
Tucked away in just inside Gibbston Valley, the Winehouse offers vintage character, lush gardens, and mountain views all in one. The restored villa creates a timeless, elegant setting, while the surrounding grounds are a dream for candid couple shots and relaxed portraits. It's one of those venues that transitions beautifully from ceremony to reception, offering consistently stunning backdrops throughout the day.
💡 Pro tip as your photographer: Late afternoon light here is magical - perfect for golden hour portraits in the classic tree-lined gardens or looking out towards the river.
Rippon HALL, Wanaka
Perched above Lake Wanaka with views to Mount Aspiring, Rippon Hall & Vineyard is hands down one of the most awe-inspiring venues I’ve photographed. It’s rustic yet refined, and completely immersed in nature. The amphitheatre-style ceremony site looks out over the lake - an unbeatable backdrop for both vows and visuals.
You can view a wedding film we captured at Rippon Hall & Vineyard here.
A recent video we captured via drone, showcasing Rippon Vineyard and Hall, Wanaka, New Zealand.
📸 This venue shines on clear days but also holds its mood on misty ones. It’s one of those places where nature’s drama only adds to the atmosphere.
Stoneridge Estate, Queenstown
Stoneridge feels like something out of a European fairytale. With its schist architecture, handcrafted details, and panoramic views over Lake Hayes, every frame at this venue feels cinematic. Whether you’re exchanging vows in the chapel or dining under the stars, the photo and video opportunities are endless.
🎥 As videographers, we love using drone footage here - Stoneridge’s terraced vineyards and the sparkling lake are pure movie magic from above.
ADDITIONAL WEDDING VENUES TO CONSIDER
Ayrburn - Queenstown’s food & wine playground, Millbrook Resort - Luxury Golf & lifestyle retreat, NZ High Country - Uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakes, Eichardts - Historical centrally located penthouse, Wonder & Full - Outdoors at Jack’s Point, Amisfield Winery - Award winning restaurant & winery, Edgewater - Multiple ceremony locations on Lake Wanaka’s edge, Nest & Kamana Lakehouse - Symmetrical lake & mountain lookout.
Planning Tips for Destination Couples
Visit (if you can) - A pre-wedding trip can help you connect with your venue and vendors. It’s also a great chance to do a pre-wedding shoot.
Weatherproof your plans - These alpine towns are stunning year-round, but the weather can shift quickly. Plan for all seasons - think umbrellas, wraps, and indoor backup options.
Book New Zealand vendors - From stylists to celebrants to photographers, New Zealand vendors know how to work with the light, locations, and logistics of Queenstown and Wanaka weddings. We’re here to help your day unfold beautifully and stress-free.
Thinking of a Helicopter Wedding?
Heli-weddings are a Queenstown signature. Whether you’re planning a private elopement on a snow-dusted peak or want to add a helicopter shoot to your wedding day, nothing quite compares to saying “I do” at 7,000 feet.
Our Top Helicopter Wedding Tips:
Plan a mid-afternoon flight to catch the best lighting conditions.
Pack for the altitude - layers, shoes for snow or rock, and sunglasses!
Choose a CAA-approved operator that works with weddings often (we’re happy to recommend vendors).
Allow time for portraits post-landing - the mountains are surreal in every direction.
🚁 Photographer’s favourite landing spots: The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Coromandel Peak above Wanaka.
Elopements & Micro-Weddings
More and more couples are choosing to elope or host intimate destination weddings in Queenstown and Wanaka. These small-scale celebrations allow for more freedom, more adventure, and more intentional moments. We love working with couples who prioritise connection, natural beauty, and storytelling.
How We Help:
Planning flexible timelines
Location scouting for vows
Capturing all the small moments - tears, laughter, and mountaintop embraces
Final Thoughts
As a photographer and filmmaker, I can confidently say there’s something truly special about weddings in Queenstown and Wanaka. The landscapes, the light, the emotion - it all comes together in a way that’s unforgettable, both for you and your guests. Whilst we are based in Auckland, NZ, we regularly capture weddings and elopements in Queenstown and Wanaka.
If you're dreaming of a wedding in this part of the world, I’d love to help tell your story. You can see more of our work at Hollow, and feel free to get in touch for a chat about your plans.
Hollow & Co. is a fine art wedding photographer & videographer based in Auckland, New Zealand. Having captured many of weddings in Queenstown & Wanaka, Hollow & Co. offer experience and advice when it comes to planning a destination wedding in Queenstown or Wanaka.
Interested in working with us?
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