photos by Matauwhi Bay Manor
Northland Venues for Hire - The Complete Guide
by Raashka Mannie | 14 Apr 2023
There’s so much to the Northland Region that makes it popular. Whether it’s tourists or locals, this region of New Zealand has plenty of travellers that come and go, taking in the sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls and native flora and fauna. When it comes to venues for hire, Northland has a variety of spaces that you can hire, from private manors settled in the Bay of Islands to expansive garden venues that are perfect for hosting elegant cocktail dinners at twilight. Check out our guide to some of the best Northland venues around, from cosy eateries to character-filled theatres.
Featured venues
Duke of Marlborough
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is a Northland landmark set on the sandy shores of Russell. Boasting an award-winning restaurant, accommodation and event space - The Duke is the pride and joy of the Bay of Islands.
Taipa Beach Resort
Framed by palm trees and the sandy shores of Doubtless Bay - Taipa Beach Resort is a conference and event venue in the heart of Northland.
Baylys’ Farm
Image by Haley Adele Photography
Let Baylys' Farm take your breath away. Located in the Bay of Islands, this stunning and versatile venue is the perfect place for a beachside event. It features 2000 acres of breathtaking farmland, right beside sandy beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Their private beachfront venue is a wonderful spot for a celebration with a view, accompanied by a marquee. This Northland venue branches into cocktail parties, engagements, weddings, product launches and celebrations of every kind. Whether your event is corporate or personal, their team can help you whip up an unforgettable day. You have full control of the menu, drinks and details, while they cater to your functional needs. Baylys' Farm is one of Northland's favourite countryside venues, embracing the environment and offering you a space to make magic happen.
Zane Grey’s
Image by SOS Cafe
A waterfront restaurant offering stunning views and spaces filled with natural light, Zane Grey’s is in high demand for dinners, cocktails, receptions, and so much more. With a diverse and delicious menu, this Northland venue is open to hosting any and every function, offering bespoke catering and impeccable service. Zane Grey’s is located in the centre of Paihia, making it a convenient venue for hire surrounded by the sea and wide-open vistas. Only 25 minutes from Kerikeri National Airport, travelling to and from this Northland venue is a cinch. They’re in close proximity to both Kerikeri and Waitangi, expanding accommodation opens and making them an excellent destination venue option in Northland.
Barge Showgrounds Events Centre
Image by Barge Showgrounds Events Centre
Moments from the city centre, Barge Showgrounds Events Centre is a flexible and spacious Northland venue fit for up to 180 guests. From launch parties to conferences, this Northland venue features a purpose-built events centre with on-site parking, incredible catering options, audiovisual equipment and more. Their large veranda flows onto their spacious lawn, ideal for team building and breakaway activities. Featuring flexible function rooms, Barge Showgrounds Events Centre is fully equipped to make your Northland event a success.
Matauwhi Bay Manor
Image by Matauwhi Bay Manor
Welcome to New Zealand’s finest luxury hotel accommodation retreat in the Bay of Islands, Matauwhi Bay Manor. On 12 acres of private headland, this venue offers incredible views and a sense of privacy, making for the ideal spot to host conferences, seminars, cocktail parties, gala dinners and more on a smaller scale. Set amongst native New Zealand bush and manicured gardens, it’s a breathtaking space that also features luxurious accommodation for you and a choice few guests. Their facilities include private beach access, golf books upon request, transfers upon request, use of the fishing boat upon request and more. Matauwhi Bay Manor is a Northland venue that makes for a perfect getaway space, boasting panoramic views of the ocean.
Omata Estate
Image by Omata Estate
Omata Estate brings you gorgeous views of the vineyard, a picturesque venue, delicious catering options and incredible wines. Settled in Bay of Islands, Omata has established themselves as one of Northlands premier wine-growing sites, having been in operation since 1990. They have approximately 8000 vines made up of Syrah, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris grapes. As a venue, they do it all: weddings, corporate dinners, lunches, private parties, fundraisers and everything in between. With Omata, you’re getting a Northland venue that will help you to make your function perfect no matter the occasion and no matter the size.
The Duke
Image by Booking
The Duke is proud to say they were New Zealand’s first licensed hotel. With so much history behind them, it’s no wonder they’re one of Northland’s favourite venues, be it for a getaway wedding or a corporate gathering. With stunning views of the water, beautiful sunsets and impeccable service, they ensure that your function will be unforgettable. Whether it’s their Grand Ballroom or their private dining room, The Duke has the ideal space for your Northland event. They offer fantastic on-site catering options, a dedicated events management team to help with the planning and running of your day, as well as audiovisual equipment and assistance. Hosting up to 250 guests, The Duke features luxe accommodation options and is located in the much-loved Bay of Islands.
Kingston House
Image by Kingston House
Situated in Kerikeri, Kingston House is a versatile venue in Northland that hosts both corporate and private events, be it a conference, seminar or dinner. As a multipurpose community facility, it’s regularly hired as a venue in Northland, featuring multiple rooms spread out over two stories; the main hall can accommodate up to 120 guests, serving as the primary function space. Kingston House also boasts an expansive outdoor area, with expertly manicured lawns accessible from gorgeous French doors, and a kitchen ideal for your caterer’s use. With a rich history, Kingston House is an essential part of Kerikeri’s history and serves as a trusted Northland venue.
Turner Centre
Image by Turner Centre
Turner Centre is a performing arts and events centre that has been operating since 2005. An important facet of Kerikeri’s performing arts community, this space is responsible for supporting, growing and nurturing local talent, as well as for providing an accessible venue for hire in Northland. There are a total of 5 spaces within Turner Centre, catering for both small- and large-scale events, including the John Dalton Auditorium, Plaza, Event Centre, New World Theatre Bar and Boardroom. Hosting anywhere from 15 to 970 guests, their spaces are flexible and make for the ideal choice for meetings, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, and so much more. With in-house audiovisual technology, commercial kitchens and other top-notch facilities, Turner Centre is one of Northland’s best-equipped venues.
Far North Business and Events Hub
Image by Far North Business and Events Hub
Both an events venue and shared office space, Far North Business and Events Hub brings you an accessible venue in the heart of Northland. The perfect spot for progressive businesses, entrepreneurs and the community, this Northland venue has a total of 5 spaces for use. These include the Main Level Board Room, Main Level Meeting Room, Function Space, Second Level Seminar Room and Second Level Meeting Room, accommodating a minimum of 8 to a maximum of 60 guests. Far North Business and Events Hub is Northland’s go-to solution for meetings, conferences and seminar spaces. They also offer Bay of Islands Airport pick-up upon request, making it extra simple for you and your delegates.
Carrington Estate
Image by Carrington Estate
Carrington Estate holds itself to the standard of being a corporate destination in Northland. Featuring accommodation, casual dining, an on-site vineyard and 18 hole championship golf course, they are a venue that has it all, specialising in conferences, seminars and more. Their corporate space can host up to 100 delegates, including state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment such as projectors, microphones, a built-in sound system, and so much more. Their incredible restaurant is more than open to catering for your function, offering set and bespoke menus for your Northland event. A scenic drive from both Kaitaia and Kerikeri, Carrington Estate is one of Northland’s premier venues for hire.
The Heads Hokianga
Image by Booking
Settled over the water’s edge, The Heads Hokianga invite you to hold your upcoming Northland meeting, conference and more with them. With modern facilities, attentive staff and wondrous on-site catering options, this Northland venue is part of one of the world’s favourite hotel chains. Their venue, Te Puna, is a self-contained space that opens out to the sparkling view of the Hokianga Harbour. With rimu timber finishes, plenty of natural light and gorgeous chandeliers, it’s the epitome of class and elegance, catering for up to 100 guests. If you need the extra room, they offer an additional marquee that can give you space for 20 more. The Heads Hokianga is a Northland venue option that’s not to be missed.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Image by Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Waitangi Treaty Grounds is an extensive venue in Northland, making it as flexible as it is comprehensive. They host all manner of events, from corporate to private, including exhibitions, parties, celebrations, seminars, conferences and more. Their spaces for hire include the new Tahuaroa Function Centre, fully-equipped learning centre, boardroom, Te Kōngahu Museum foyer, Te Whare Rūnanga and Whare Waka Café. On top of having a variety of spaces for hire, Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a Northland venue that also offers on-site catering and audiovisual equipment and assistance, as well as cultural activities that will amaze and inspire your guests. For an all-inclusive and versatile venue in Northland, choose Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Ara Roa
Image by Ara Roa
Ara Roa is a villa that also offers boutique lodgings. Most importantly, Ara Roa is a Northland venue sitting on the cusp of the water and offering stunning views throughout. With noteworthy architecture, amazing service and delicious catering options, this is a must-see Northland venue. They offer a boutique venue experience, perfect for meetings, workshops and other smaller corporate gatherings. Ara Roa provides audiovisual equipment, on-site dining, and even helicopter transfers if desired. They want to ensure that you have a unique, luxurious experience, with sun-filled spaces to host your Northland event. Ara Roa also boasts private walking trails for your guests to unwind with and see the sights.
Shed 7
Image by ZuBlu
Tutukaka has salvaged the old Tutukaka Marina piles and wooden boardwalks, and have up-cycled them into an ultra-modern training centre called Shed 7, which now serves as a popular venue in Northland. With a capacity of 60 inside and 200 outside, Shed 7 is a versatile and charming venue that offers free-diving courses, photography sessions, and PADI dive training. The surrounding area is drenched in sunlight and even has a bubbling freshwater spring nearby. Shed 7 is the perfect Northland venue for conferences, celebrations, launches, cocktail functions and more.
Wai Rua Escapes
Image by Wai Rua Escapes
Immersed in nature, Wai Rua Escapes is a Northland venue like none other. Just 20 minutes from Whangarei City, this Northland venue can accommodate up to 120 guests, offering spaces for everything from chamber music recitals to conferences. They provide you with modern facilities, marquees, flowing gardens and even catering. Wai Rua Escapes is all about giving you a flexible, accessible space for your upcoming Northland event. When it comes to corporate gatherings, their greenery and fresh air is a welcome change, allowing your guests to unwind amongst native bush and during restorative walks. Hold outdoor cocktail parties, dinners, lunches and more to celebrate whatever you please with Wai Rua Escapes.
Te Ahu
Image by Te Ahu
Te Ahu offers you a variety of venues in Northland, all located on the ground floor of their magnificent venue. For the community, by the community, Te Ahu is an essential part of Kaitaia. Their spaces for hire include the Art Room, Little Theatre, Courtyard, Banquet Room, Main Hall, Computer Classroom, Boardroom, Conference Room, Meeting Room, Atrium and Library Room. All these spaces are versatile, some equipped with audiovisual facilities and others upon request. Te Ahu can accommodate a wide range of guests, whether you’re looking to host a cocktail party for 150 or a meeting for 15 guests. Celebrate history with their museum, or visit the nearby cinema for some added entertainment. Te Ahu is a Northland venue that has it all.
The Butter Factory
Image by GrabOne
Family-owned, The Butter Factory is a charming century-old stone building, said to be “the coolest place in summer and cosiest in winter.” Boasting a wide range of craft beers and unique New Zealand wines, as well as freshly-brewed coffee and delicious cocktails, they serve everything from pub classics to innovative dishes, sourcing fresh ingredients from talented Whangarei farmers. The Butter Factory specialises in catering for corporate and private events, from intimate dinners of 20 to large launch parties, with tailored menus and a private functions room for your upcoming Northland event.