Wedding destinations in New Zealand are as diverse as the country itself
From city harbours to alpine lakes, couples can choose locations that match their style, scale, and story. New Zealand Weddings blend natural beauty with cultural charm, making them attractive to both locals and international travellers.
Below are what we feel are some of the most beautiful places to celebrate a wedding in New Zealand. Each region offers a distinct atmosphere, giving couples the freedom to design a day that feels personal and unforgettable.
For couples who love sophistication, Auckland offers wedding venues ranging from waterfront locations with sweeping harbour views to restored heritage buildings
Auckland City is a dynamic wedding destination, where couples can choose from elegant hotels, stylish waterfront spaces, and historic venues with character. The city’s harbour setting adds a sense of drama and convenience, making it ideal for larger celebrations or those wanting a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Just across the water, Waiheke Island provides a contrasting escape, world-class vineyards, olive groves, and coastal views that create an intimate, romantic setting. Together, Auckland and Waiheke offer couples the best of both worlds: the sophistication of the city and the charm of an island retreat, all within easy reach of each other.
Few places in the world rival the drama of Queenstown and Wanaka
A landscape of peaks and lakes, Queenstown and Wanaka are places where weddings become as breathtaking as the scenery itself. Snow-capped mountains, clear lakes, and luxury lodges create one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in New Zealand.
Couples can exchange vows on a mountaintop reached by helicopter, then celebrate lakeside with guests. International visitors see this as the postcard New Zealand; for locals, it is a destination that always feels magical.
Known for sun-drenched vineyards and long summer evenings, Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough are regions made for wedding celebrations
Hawke’s Bay is a destination where wine, food, and architecture set the stage for elegant weddings. Couples can celebrate among vineyard rows, host receptions in Napier’s glamorous art deco venues, and enjoy menus shaped by award-winning local produce and wine.
In the South Island, Marlborough brings its own sophisticated charm – world-class wineries, sweeping valleys, and luxury lodges that make every celebration feel magical. Together, Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough offer couples two of New Zealand’s most upmarket wine-country experiences, where every detail feels polished and timeless.
New Zealand’s capital, with its mix of creative, city and coastal views, offers boutique venues that feel both stylish and personal
Wellington City stands out for its vibrant harbour, historic architecture, and cultural spirit. Couples can celebrate in elegant hotels, restored theatres, or contemporary waterfront spaces that reflect the city’s character.
Just beyond the Remutaka Ranges, the Wairarapa offers a contrasting charm, vineyards, countryside estates, and heritage homesteads that bring a sense of rural romance. Together, Wellington and Wairarapa create a wedding destination that balances urban sophistication with rustic elegance, giving couples the choice of city energy or wine-country intimacy within easy reach of each other.
Christchurch has long been known as the “Garden City,” and its leafy parks and historic architecture provide timeless wedding backdrops
Christchurch City offers couples a graceful mix of heritage and nature, with options ranging from elegant gardens to restored historic venues. The city’s character makes it ideal for those wanting a wedding steeped in tradition yet framed by beauty.
Beyond the city, Canterbury opens up to alpine lodges, country estates, and retreats surrounded by sweeping landscapes. Together, Christchurch and Canterbury create a wedding destination where history and open space combine, giving every celebration a sense of depth and place.
For those who prefer intimacy, New Zealand’s coastline delivers moments of barefoot luxury
Remote beaches and coastal gems offer wedding destinations that feel exclusive, effortless, and deeply personal. The Coromandel is known for its golden sands and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a relaxed yet elegant celebration.
In the far north, the Bay of Islands combines turquoise waters with luxury resorts, creating a setting that is both romantic and indulgent. On the rugged West Coast, dramatic scenery and private retreats add a sense of adventure and seclusion. Together, these coastal locations provide couples with some of New Zealand’s most intimate and unforgettable wedding experiences.
A celebration unique to you
What makes New Zealand Weddings distinctive is the freedom to choose a destination that reflects your style. For locals, it means a world-class celebration close to home. For international couples, it means a wedding that becomes part of the journey of a lifetime.
In the end, wedding destinations in New Zealand are not just about scenery. They are about creating a moment that feels timeless, unforgettable, and entirely your own.