photos by Kate Alexandra Photography

15 of the Best Wanaka Wedding Venues

by Avya Trotter-Hlavac | 28 Sep 2023

From its snowy mountain ranges to the crystal clear waters, Wanaka is the definition of pure New Zealand. Abundant with country lodges, BYO venues, boutique hotels, and rustic woolsheds - Wanaka wedding venues all have one thing in common - that breathtaking landscape the region is famous for. Just a stone's throw from Queenstown, Wanaka has a range of venues sure to spark your excitement. For more of our wedding guides, check out Wellington, Auckland, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, Queenstown, Dunedin, Hamilton, Waiheke, Northland and Christchurch.

The Venue Wanaka

Image sourced from The Venue Wanaka

The Venue is a rustic space in the heart of Wanaka, surrounded by striking alpine ranges. Boasting timber flooring, a gas fireplace and a wooden aesthetic throughout - the building itself is a cosy haven amidst a wintry wonderland. The sunny courtyard and mature gardens are perfect for a wedding ceremony, lawn games and mingling with friends. 

 

Wanaka Haven

Image by Kate Alexandra Photography

Wanaka Haven is a country lodge set on 4 hectares of beautiful grounds and framed by the Southern Alps. Venue hire includes exclusive use of the property and overnight accommodation for up to 14 guests - making it a bridal party getaway location!

Rove Bar

Image sourced from Rove Bar

Rove Bar wears many hats: premium cafe, bar, event space & wedding venue. Known for great food, coffee and cocktails - Rove Bar offers the golden trio. A relaxed reception venue hosting up to 150 guests, you'll find Rove Bar in the heart of Wanaka.

Lipsky and Sons

Image sourced from Lipsky & Sons

Nestled in the picturesque town of Wanaka, Lipsky and Sons offers three beautiful spaces available individually or combined. Functioning solely as an event and wedding venue - Lipsky and Sons covers all your bases, from catering to event management.

 

The Olive Grove


Image by Nina Henderson Photography

The Olive Grove is the BYO wedding venue of our dreams. Framed by olive trees, the landscaped grounds overlook farmland, Lake Wanaka and distant islands. There is a large area for the addition of a marquee, with easy catering access, water supply and generous parking. The onsite cottage provides the perfect space for last-minute touch-ups, changing and having a quiet moment to yourselves.

 

Edgewater Hotel


Image sourced from Edgewater Hotel

Situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Edgewater gracefully embodies the beauty of Central Otago. The beautiful property extends along the lake, providing a multitude of spaces for your ceremony, cocktail hour and photos. For wedding parties of up to 100, the venue offers both the Pavilion and the Alcove together - creating a light-filled space for your wedding reception and dance floor.

Criffel Station


Image by Acorn Photography & Cinema

Bring all new meaning to the exclusivity of your Wanaka wedding elopement celebration at Criffel Station - an elevated property with magnificent views and a restored woolshed. Due to exciting developments underway at Criffel Station, currently, only booking Elopement Weddings at the Henry’s Hut space are possible. 

Rippon


Image by Luisa Apanui

Atop the lovely Rippon Hill, Rippon Hall presents a breathtaking backdrop and a duo of spaces for your Wanaka wedding. The indoor spaces include the main hall and a fixed canopy - seating up to 230 guests. The property also features a natural amphitheatre, which serves as a popular ceremony location.

 

Maple Lodge

Image by Wetu

Maple Lodge is a boutique lodge and wedding venue located alongside Lake Wanaka. The property includes beautiful gardens, a dining room and a clear-sided pavilion marquee. The Lodge itself sleeps up to 14 guests and is a homely space for pre and post-wedding celebrations.

Cardrona Hotel

Image by Ryan Mccauley Photography

For a Southland venue that is a little rustic and a lot iconic, there's Cardrona Hotel. A landmark building on the stretch between Queenstown and Wanaka, Cardrona Hotel is the definition of a destination venue in New Zealand. The Restaurant seats 80 guests, and the Hotel sleeps 40 guests. A marquee can be added to the gardens to increase that capacity, and catering options range from walk & fork to set menus. 

 

Minaret Station


Image by Kate Alexandra Photography

Accessible only by helicopter, Minaret Station is nestled in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, providing one of the world’s most unique venues. Hosting weddings with up to forty guests, Minaret Station is a destination venue for those seeking an intimate day in a most spectacular location.

 

Lake Hawea View


Image by Charlotte Kiri Photography

An hour from Queenstown, you'll find Lake Hawea View. This cedar-clad homestead presents breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, from mountain vistas to the glistening lake. The homestead seats 40 guests, and a marquee can be added to increase the guest capacity.

 

Glendhu Station


Image by Alpine Image Company

Glendhu Station is a family-owned, high-country station set on the shores of Lake Wanaka. With a modernised woolshed and 1,200 hectares of high country at your fingertips, Glendhu Station is a wedding venue with a magnificent outlook. 

The Lookout Lodge


Image by Alpine Image Company

For magical winter weddings by the fire or summer days on the manicured lawns, The Lookout Lodge is a magnificent venue throughout every season. You'll find The Lookout Lodge just 10 minutes from Wanaka. With a grand dining room, seven guest rooms, expansive lawns and a commercial kitchen - The Lookout Lodge is a comprehensive venue with a world of charm.

 

The River House, Wanaka


Image by Luisa Apanui

The River House Wānaka is a boutique venue set on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park. Follow the private driveway to find this charming homestead nestled amidst untouched New Zealand beauty. Have your wedding ceremony on the banks of the stunning Hāwea River, and further celebrations can continue outdoors or in the villa.

Oasis Yurt Lodge


Image by Oasis Yurt Lodge

Oasis Yurt Lodge provides a beautiful, earthy backdrop for your intimate elopement or wedding celebration. Venue hire includes the Lodge, several yurt/tipis to stay overnight and manicured lawns to dine al-fresco or add a small marquee. Designed for intimate weddings and elopements, Oasis is best for up to 24 guests.