The 14 Best Hawke's Bay Wedding Venues

by Avya Trotter-Hlavac | 15 Aug 2023

Hawke's Bay is set on the east coast of the North Island and has made its mark as the wine capital of Aotearoa. Home to many great vineyards and wineries - Hawke's Bay has an abundance of beautiful venues for your wedding. If you're after more New Zealand wedding venue inspiration, you can check out our WellingtonAucklandTaurangaBay of PlentyQueenstownDunedinHamilton and Christchurch wedding venue guides.

Napier Conference Centre

Image sourced from Napier Conference Centre

For those getting married in New Zealand's Art Deco capital, consider Napier Conference Centre. The high ceilings are perfect for draping a silk canopy and fairy lights, while the large windows offer panoramic views from Cape Kidnappers to Mahia Peninsula. Conveniently located on Napier's Marine Parade, Napier Conference Centre presents modern facilities, in-house catering and an expert event team for your big day.

National Aquarium of NZ

Image sourced from National Aquarium of NZ

If you're in the market for a unique backdrop for your wedding ceremony or reception, look no further than The National Aquarium of New Zealand. Set on Napier's Marine Parade - this venue offers two unique spaces, hosting up to 120 guests. Your guests will have the opportunity to interact with divers and observe the amazing deep sea creatures. 

Oruawharo Homestead Limited


Image by Estrada Weddings

Oruawharo Homestead is an elegant venue with a century and a half of history within its walls. Set amidst gardens and woodlands, the Homestead features Victorian architecture and stained glass windows - setting the scene for a grand occasion.

Gwavas Gardens


Image by Tammie Crompton

Gwavas Garden and Homestead is a family-owned property set on 20 acres of woodland garden in rural Hawke's Bay. The gardens are most vibrant from September to the end of November, providing a colourful backdrop for your big day. With the smell of florals in the air, Gwavas is a beautiful place to say "I do".

River House Hawke's Bay


Image sourced from The River House 

The River House is a beautiful destination, midway between Havelock North and Ocean Beach. The Mediterranean-style property has three lawned areas, two sheltered courtyards and a five-bedroom villa available for your day. Overlooking the vineyard to the river and Te Mata Peak, The River House is a picturesque venue for a marquee wedding.

The Old Church


Image sourced from The Old Church

The Old Church is an iconic Hawke's Bay venue that'll never lose its charm. A short drive from Napier, The Old Church presents several indoor and outdoor event spaces for your big day. The Main Hall (pictured above) is an elegant space featuring wooden flooring, stained glass windows, and a grand chandelier. This space can host up to 150 guests seated or 300 standing. 

Te Mata House


Image by Te Mata House

For the backyard wedding of your dreams, try Te Mata House. This historic homestead has been restored to create a luxurious wedding venue for intimate celebrations. Only available for a few dates each year, Te Mata House offers opulent experiences to a small number of lucky couples.

Black Barn Vineyard


Image by Meredith Lord

Black Barn Vineyard is a stunning wedding venue set in the rolling hills and vines of the Hawke's Bay countryside. This highly sought-after venue consists of six event spaces, ranging from the Olive Shed to the Black Barn Bistro. Whatever your guest list and budget look like - Black Barn Vineyard is sure to have a package to suit.

Greenhill Lodge


Image sourced from Greenhill Lodge

Greenhill Lodge is set on a hilltop in the heart of New Zealand's food and wine country. Hosting a limited number of weddings each year, Greenhill Lodge retains its exclusivity and charm. The gardens and pavilion are beautiful options for your ceremony, whilst the Homestead can be used for an intimate reception. For a large reception, the lawn offers ample space for a marquee.

Cape Estate


Image by Tim and Nadine Photography

Cape Estate is a BYO venue set on 1,000 acres of elevated farmland. There's eye candy all around with the ocean, vineyards and countryside surrounding the venue. Cape Estate boasts four ceremony locations, a rustic barn and endless space for the marquee wedding of your dreams!

Meadowood


Image by Zara Staples

Meadowood is the only venue of its kind in Hawke's Bay. An all-weather wedding venue with a dynamic offering - Meadowood boasts an authentic Art Deco house, a tipi marquee and boutique accommodation options, including The Meadowood House and glamping in the trees!

East Pier Hotel


Image sourced from Hawke's Bay Trails

East Pier is a wedding venue set on the historic port of Ahuriri. The oldest beachfront dining venue in the area, East Pier presents beautiful spaces, catering and accommodation all under one roof. For weddings, there's the Ocean Suite - an expansive space with a private bar, two decks and panoramic ocean views.

Savana Estate


Image by TrueNZ

Savana Estate is an incredibly affordable yet effortlessly stunning wedding venue only a few minutes from Havelock North. Framed by the rolling hills of New Zealand's wine country, Savana Estate presents a beautiful backdrop for your big day.

Elephant Hill


Image by Samantha Donaldson

Elephant Hill is a stunning and innovative winery estate on the idyllic Te Awanga coast in Hawke's Bay. A place designed to nurture the heart and soul, Elephant Hill presents breathtaking views of the surrounding vines, the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Cape Kidnappers. With endless photo opportunities, the onsite restaurant, wine cellar and luxury accommodation - make the most of the comforts on offer at Elephant Hill.