Choosing Your Ceremony Location
Beautiful locations, unforgettable moments.
Wanaka offers some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, from peaceful lakeside settings to mountain views and natural landscapes.
Your ceremony location sets the scene for your day, whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony for two or sharing the moment with your closest family and friends.
Some of the beautiful locations available include:
Beacon Point beaches
A collection of small bays with stunning lake and mountain views, making it easy to find a quiet, private spot.
Bremner Bay
A beautiful lakeside location that catches the sun, and offers wide-open views across the lake.
Eely Point
Right on the water's edge and naturally protected from the wind, making it a wonderful choice in all seasons.
Wanaka Station Park
A sheltered setting with mature trees, a charming rose-covered archway, and easy access to the lake.
Each location has its own character, and I'll help you choose the one that best suits your ceremony, the season, and the weather. If needed, we can adjust the location on the day.
Before you Book
Getting married in New Zealand involves a few legal requirements that need to be completed before your ceremony.
Before booking your ceremony, please make sure you understand the requirements and that your chosen ceremony option is right for you.
You will need to:
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Apply for a New Zealand Marriage Licence
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Arrange two witnesses
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Meet the legal requirements for marriage in New Zealand
Choosing the Right Ceremony for You
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Registry Wedding - Simple. Legal. Beautiful.
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Short & Sweet - Personal touches. Meaningful moments. Relaxed and heartfelt.
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Fully Personalised - A ceremony created around your story.
Every couple has a different idea of their perfect wedding day.
Whether you are looking for something simple and legal, a ceremony with a few personal touches, or something completely unique, there is an option to suit you.
Your Wedding Day
Your wedding day should feel relaxed and enjoyable. I’ll guide you through the process so you can focus on the moment.
Depending on your ceremony choice, this may include:
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Meeting at your chosen location
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Finalising any last details
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Your ceremony and legal paperwork
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Signing your marriage documents
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Celebrating your first moments as a married couple
After Your Ceremony
Once your ceremony is complete and your documents have been signed, I’ll take care of submitting everything to Births, Deaths and Marriages for registration.
Your marriage certificate will be mailed directly to you, leaving you free to enjoy your first days as a married couple.
If you have chosen to include a photographer, this is the perfect time to capture those special first moments together as newlyweds, surrounded by the beauty of Wanaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we book our ceremony?
Registry Weddings can be booked up to three months in advance, in line with New Zealand marriage licence requirements. If you are planning a Short & Sweet or Fully Personalised Ceremony, you can book any time but I recommend getting in touch earlier, for popular dates and seasons.
Do we need a Marriage Licence before our ceremony?
Yes. You will need to apply for a New Zealand Marriage Licence before your wedding ceremony. You can find all the legal requirements through Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Do we need witnesses?
Yes. New Zealand law requires two witnesses to be present at your ceremony. Your witnesses can be friends, family members or other people who meet the requirements.
Can we choose our ceremony location?
Yes. Wanaka has many beautiful locations to choose from, and I’m happy to help you select a location that suits your ceremony, the season and the conditions on the day.
What happens if the weather changes?
Wanaka weather can change quickly, and conditions can vary between locations. With local knowledge of the area, I will help you choose the best option for your ceremony. Where possible, we can be flexible and adjust the location if conditions on the day require it.