As far as celebrations go, they don't get much bigger than a wedding and here in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to finding that special somewhere to say 'I do'.
From urban gems to island escapes and everything in between, here are Urban List's top picks for the best wedding venues in Auckland.
Tantalus Estate
70/72 Onetangi Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland
Image credit: Tantalus Estate / Facebook
As one of Waiheke's most stunning vineyards, it should come as no surprise that Tantalus Estate also serves as a popular wedding venue. Nestled within Onetangi Valley, this architectural gem is beautiful inside (featuring an award-winning fit-out by Nat Cheshire) and out (with vines, wetlands, and landscaped gardens at your disposal). And we're not the only ones who think so—Tantalus has hosted several high-profile weddings and was named the winner of the 2021-2022 LUXLife Global Wedding Awards: Best Wedding Venue, Auckland Region. It's even been name-dropped in Vogue (if it's good enough for the world's most famous fashion magazine, it's definitely good enough for you). Throw premium Waiheke wine and exceptional food into the mix, with the option of hosting anywhere from 20-170 guests—and this is arguably Auckland's best wedding venue.
Jonkers Farm
130 Jonkers Road, Henderson, Auckland
Image credit: Jonkers Farm / Supplied
Half an hour from Auckland lies the magnificent Jonkers Farm—540 acres of isolated paradise (actually a 100-year-old working farm) with views spanning both coasts and back to the city itself. The breathtaking beauty of this spot means it has been used in countless movies and TV series and if that's not big-day credentials, we don't know what is. Say your vows inside 'The Woodland' (a cathedral formed out of trees, pictured above), take pics in front of former film sets and a cute 1940s woolshed, then celebrate beneath your choice of a chic canopy, rustic tipi or clear marquee. Jonkers Farm has a tonne of top catering options to choose from (including food trucks) and even allows BYO drinks (now that's what we call a celebration!). Naturally, bookings for this spot are extremely limited.
Glasshouse Morningside
18 McDonald Street, Morningside, Auckland
Escape for your big day to this unique city-fringe sanctuary, which—as you may have guessed from the name—looks a lot like a glasshouse (albeit a giant and extremely elegant one). Found inside the stylish Morningside Precinct, the Glasshouse is beautifully decorated with hanging foliage and other fitting touches that bring new meaning to the term 'indoor-outdoor flow'; and can cater for weddings of all styles and sizes. To make the most of this breathtaking space, we recommend having your nuptials at night—that roof was MADE for stargazing.
The Hunting Lodge
307 Waikoukou Valley Road, Waimauku, Auckland
Image credit: The Hunting Lodge / Facebook
Country chic is the order of the day at acclaimed winery The Hunting Lodge, which is offering up its gorgeous 80-acre estate in the heart of Waimauku for your big day. In addition to the usual winery trope (vine-covered hills, picturesque views etc), here's what else you can expect from this popular wedding venue—a contemporary black barn complete with white timber interiors and exposed concrete floors (aka the perfect canvas for creating the reception of your dreams), bespoke menu design embracing this spot's award-winning food and wine, and perhaps best of all, Jerry—a cute restored vintage caravan, which will be alongside on the day to pour refreshments for you and your guests.
Settlers Country Manor
81 Waimauku Station Road, Huapai, Auckland
We can't think of a better spot for you to start our very own happily ever after than at Settlers Country Manor—a stunning seven-acre property that looks like it belongs in either a classic Disney film, or a Taylor Swift music video. Amongst its credentials are perfectly manicured grounds with arched bridges over willow-lined waterways and incredible views across Auckland harbour, plus a grand ballroom for you and your betrothed to celebrate the beginning of your very own love story (but not without scrumptious food and wine from their onsite catering team). Baby just say yes?
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Casita Miro
3 Brown Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland
Image credit: Casita Miro / Facebook
Cross the waters of the Waitematā, and you'll find one of Auckland's best-kept wedding secrets: Casita Miro. With a stunning vineyard-overlooking-the-ocean setting, not unlike what you'd find in the Mediterranean—and fine Spanish-inspired food with wines grown onsite to match—this sure is a special spot to say 'I do.' We can only imagine how increds your wedding pics will look, with their vine-covered hills, olive groves and gorgeous art nouveau-style dining room as backdrops. Casita Miro is ideal for smaller weddings (with catering available for up to 60 people) and is only available April through October—which only adds to the exclusive element, in our opinion.
Mantells Mount Eden
466A Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland
Image credit: Mantells / Supplied
Located at the heart of Mount Eden village inside a building once used by the Auckland telephone exchange, Mantells really is something spesh. The interior, with its high ceilings and chandeliers, is just one of the many talking points here—there's also a stunning outdoor courtyard, reminiscent of an Italian villa with its sweeping verandas, lush greenery and beautiful fireplace. Taste the food, and you'll only fall more in love with this magical spot. Given the thumbs-up by owner Annette Mantell (who ran the acclaimed French Café for 16 years), it's as good as any fine-dining restaurants'.
Boutique Barn
165 Bayer Road, Puhoi, Auckland
Image credit: Boutique Barn / Supplied
There's something especially charming about a country wedding, and this is what the Boutique Barn does best. Its rustic, wooden exterior and surrounding farmland are a popular drawcard for brides and grooms-to-be, complemented by chandeliers, polished wooden floors and other charming touches. This is a great spot for smaller weddings, and gets extra brownie points for its on-trend catering options (which include food trucks) and on-site accommodation (should you and your betrothed wish to stay a while longer).
Bracu
49 Main Road, Bombay, Auckland
Image credit: Bracu / Facebook
For an Italian escape that oozes 'amore', wed your love amongst the olive groves at Bracu. This tranquil venue located on the fringes of Auckland has long been a favourite spot for couples tying the knot; and offers a range of picture-perfect options to do just that, from an impressive indoor pavilion through to a purpose-built 'island' surrounded by a freshwater stream. Plus, you'll get to sample some of the beautiful cuisine for which Bracu is also famous.
Mudbrick Vineyard
126 Church Bay Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island, Auckland
Weddings at Mudbrick are in hot in demand, and for good reason. Perched atop Waiheke Island and boasting spectacular sea views, this impressive site (featuring a beautiful, hand-hewn mudbrick building—hence the name) is one of the cream of the crop as far as Auckland wedding venues are concerned. Being a vineyard, you can of course expect plenty of amazing wine (and food); which you and your guests can enjoy in a host of locations ranging from a cosy indoor area complete with roaring fireplace, through to the mature gardens outside.
Castaways Resort
685 Karioitahi Road, Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku, Auckland
Image credit: Castaways / Facebook
Castaways is exactly the kind of place you'd see The Bachelor handing out the final rose—or the love of your life, marrying you. The star here is without a doubt the ocean, spreading out in all its rugged, west coast beauty beneath a breathtaking clifftop that's become the venue's go-to for wedding ceremonies. We also love how there's a wet weather option that doesn't compromise on the view. Calm your nerves before you walk up the aisle by visiting the day spa that's located on-site, or extend the celebrations by staying for a few nights in the accommodation that's also on offer.
Alberton
100 Mount Albert Road, Mount Albert, Auckland
Image credit: Alberton / Facebook
If old-world glamour is more your thing, consider tying the knot at Alberton. Located on the slopes of Mount Albert, this grand two-storey mansion was once the home of a wealthy colonial family and a popular spot for balls, garden parties and other occasions attended by the city's elite. With its impressive architecture, picturesque gardens and exquisitely-decorated interior, it's not hard to see why. Fortunately for us modern-day folk, those Gatsby vibes are still going strong with a range of spaces available for hosting your nuptials including our personal favourite—a ballroom.
Puketutu Island Estate
600 Island Road, Māngere, Auckland
If you fancy the idea of an island wedding but can't quite afford the airfare, Puketutu Island Estate is a pretty good substitute. Situated on a legit, privately-owned island—Puketu in Mangere—it may not have the white sands and blue oceans synonymous with other destination weddings, but what it does have is a magnificent, Spanish-style homestead and sprawling lawns complete with sub-tropical gardens. A one-way ticket to wedded bliss, we reckon.
Kauri Bay Boomrock
777 Clevedon-Kawakawa Road, Clevedon, Auckland
Image credit: Kauri Bay Boomrock / Facebook
With sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf, tailored seasonal menus and a dedicated team helping you to create your own bespoke wedding day, it’s little wonder why Kauri Bay Boomrock—located 45 minutes out of the CBD—is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Auckland. After your ceremony, your guests can partake in a spot of golf or enjoy canapes and bubbly on the grassy deck while you get your snaps sorted at a variety of glorious photography locations. Then, head to The Lodge for your speeches, delicious food and dancing. Kauri Bay Boomrock can cater for an intimate wedding of 20 guests and up to 250 if you’re pushing the boat out.
Want more loved-up goodness? Check out:
- Romantic Date Ideas To Impress Your Love
- The Best Hotels In Tāmaki Makaurau
- Auckland's Most Loved-Up Restaurants
Main image credit: Bracu / Celeste Chaplin
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