The Bay of Plenty is a charming coastal region situated on the east coast of New Zealand. Known for its abundance of wedding-worthy locations, the region showcases the coastline in all its glory. NZ Venues highlights some of the Bay of Plenty’s most sought-after wedding venues, spanning 260km and including key centres such as Rotorua, Tauranga and Waihi. From beachside getaways and landscaped gardens to black barns and family-owned estates, the Bay of Plenty has something for everyone.
Hilton Lake Taupo is an upmarket wedding venue perched alongside the lake and surrounded by landscaped gardens. Located just 10 minutes from the centre of Taupo, Hilton provides a stunning setting to share your vows, mingle, wine, dine and rest your head when the day is done.
Longfords Estate
Longfords Estate is an impressive family-owned farm just 10 minutes from Rotorua. With the spaces, facilities and expertise to host your special occasion - Longfords Estate is suitable for anywhere from 160 to 320 guests. With Lake Okareka as the backdrop, the Estate boasts a silk-lined Marque, cocktail garden and caravan bar named Lola.
Black Walnut Venue
Black Walnut Venue is a boutique venue located on a 5-acre property in Pahoia, just 20 minutes from Tauranga. The spaces at this venue are simply divine - from the light-filled Blasshouse for your ceremony to the modern Black Barn for your reception. Possible outdoor ceremony locations include by the lake, forest & gardens.
Eagle Ridge
Eagle Ridge is the country estate of our dreams. The 25-acre property boasts charming homesteads, beautiful lawns, award-winning service, exceptional cuisine, top-tier facilities and onsite accommodation overlooking the ocean and surrounding countryside.
Ātaahua
Ātaahua is a Tauranga venue that embodies the meaning of its name with grace. Framed by elegant European-inspired gardens cloaked in native bush, Ātaahua sets a stunning setting for your wedding or special occasion. Located just 15 minutes from Tauranga, your garden paradise awaits at Ātaahua.
Fountain Gardens
Fountain Gardens is a magical forest venue that feels a world away but is, in fact - just 20 minutes from Tauranga. The serene pathway will lead you to the ceremony platform, a magical location amidst the native bush. Celebrations can continue across the lawns, with your reception taking place in the permanent marquee.
Surf and Sand
Surf & Sand is a beachside venue that sits along Ohiwa Harbour, 15 minutes from central Whakatane. With 5 acres of park-like grounds at your fingertips, Surf & Sand is the perfect property for your marquee wedding. With the ocean as your backdrop and the crashing waves as your soundtrack, your dream beach wedding is possible at Surf & Sand.
Flat White
Flat White is a picturesque beachside venue at Waihi Beach, just 50 minutes from Tauranga. Share your vows on the seaside, followed by further celebrations in the modern cafe space. With an experienced wedding coordinator, divine menus, all-weather options and full licensing - Flat White is the perfect venue for those who have always dreamt of a seaside celebration.
Old Forest School
Dating back to the early 1930s, this community school is a unique establishment with nearly a century of history within its grounds. Thanks to careful restorations, the incredible site became the fully-equipped wedding venue it is today. In 2024, Old Forest School is bursting with character and proud to host beautiful occasions year-round.
Ohope Golf Course
Established in 1972 by local golfing enthusiasts, Ohope Beach Golf Links is a comprehensive wedding venue by the water. Overlooking Ohiwa Harbour and the White & Whale Islands, this Ohope venue is a hot spot for those seeking to wed on the greens.
The Elms
The Elms is a beautiful heritage site located on a picturesque Tauranga property. Offering a hectare of romantic grounds and historic buildings with an expert coordinator to bring it all together - The Elms is a boutique venue with an air of elegance about it.
Tauranga Yacht Club
The Tauranga Yacht Club sits on the end of Sulphur Point, overlooking the idyllic harbour. Built in 1924, the Club is a key part of Tauranga's boating history and now serves as a popular wedding venue with its newly refurbished space. The large deck is perfect for mixing and mingling with a seaside backdrop, and the total venue capacity is 300 pax.
L’Orangerie
L'Orangerie is a countryside wedding venue nestled amidst acres of farmland and native bush. The reception space is a barn structure with a rustic interior: aging beams and all things vintage. As a family-run venue, the L'Orangerie team take the utmost pride in hosting each wedding with a tailored approach.
Hana Lodge
Amidst the trees overlooking Lake Rotorua, Hana Lodge is a breath of fresh air. Not only a sought-after location for leisure and relaxation, Hana Lodge offers a romantic and fully equipped venue for your wedding day. You'll find everything in one place: a superb setting, award-winning French cuisine and thoughtful support.
Tironui
Tironui is a unique wedding venue in Hamurana, just a 20-minute drive from Rotorua. Perched atop rolling hills, Tironui promises privacy and breathtaking views overlooking Lake Rotorua. With a character-filled barn at the ready for your wedding day festivities, Tironui boasts over 21sqm of space to party!
Tui Ridge Retreat
The sound of Tui will greet you as you arrive at Tui Ridge, an intimate venue 30 minutes from Tauranga. Tie the knot with a backdrop of your choosing - whether that be views of the Kaimai Ranges, an idyllic English countryside-style garden, or the quaint summer house.
Most Bay of Plenty wedding venues are within 10 to 30 minutes of key hubs like Tauranga, Rotorua, Taupō and Whakatāne. Some rural estates and retreats may require up to 45–60 minutes’ travel, so guest transport should be considered when planning.
Several venues in the region are well suited for larger celebrations. Longfords Estate, Tauranga Yacht Club and Eagle Ridge are capable of hosting weddings with hundreds of guests, while venues like Hilton Lake Taupo also offer extensive event facilities and accommodation for larger events
Many venues in the Bay of Plenty offer onsite accommodation or are located close to hotels and lodges. Properties like Hilton Lake Taupō and Hana Lodge provide full accommodation, while others partner with nearby options for guest convenience.
The Bay of Plenty is known for its sunny climate, but weather can still be unpredictable. Many venues offer wet-weather backup options such as marquees, indoor reception spaces or covered ceremony areas to ensure your day runs smoothly.
