Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand

Best time of year to get married in Queenstown — *Krista May Weddings*

Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand

Table of Contents

Destination Weddings in New Zealand

Dreaming of tying the knot in stunning New Zealand? Your search for the ultimate destination wedding guide ends here! Picture-perfect landscapes await in Queenstown and Northland’s pristine beaches, offering an array of breath-taking settings for your big day. Uncover top-notch wedding venues and local vendors that will transform your wedding into an unforgettable affair. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy vineyard ceremony or flying to the closer mountain top, New Zealand’s natural beauty sets the stage for an enchanting celebration. Let our comprehensive guide help you craft a magical destination wedding in New Zealand, where every detail of your destination wedding in New Zealand is as magical as you imagined.

Legal Requirements for Getting Married in New Zealand

I know you just want to do the fun stuff, like picking your photographer and booking your helicopter experience but if you want you marriage to be legally binding then the paperwork has to get done too. Getting married in NZ is EASY and anyone can get married in New Zealand. I go over all the marriage laws of NZ and everything you need to know to make your I do’s legally binding in this guide: The best Step-by-step guide to eloping in New Zealand

Your celebrant will be your go to person for helping you through the legal processes though, so pick someone you trust.

Best Wedding Venues in New Zealand

Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand

There is so many good wedding venues but I’m going to outline a few of my favourites and they all happen to be local to Queenstown. I’m slightly biased in thinking Queenstown is the best place to get married in NZ. The variety is beyond your wildest dreams. If you are eloping, these are my top heli elopement ceremony spots. If you are after a traditional wedding but want the variety of outdoor and indoor wedding venue spaces, then this may be for you. The Most Picturesque and Best Wedding Venues in Queenstown: Top Picks

Pick the ultimate wedding venue in Queenstown can be slightly daunting. This is why I’ve done the research for you and make the guess work easy. As a wedding photographer myself, I get to experience so many different kinds of weddings and wedding venues. I’m here to share this insider knowledge about what to ask your venue, to make sure you get the best deal possible. 22 questions to ask your wedding venue before you commit.

Seasonal Considerations for Weddings

Choosing the best season to get married in NZ is a crucial decision that can shape your entire wedding experience. Whether you’re eyeing a picturesque venue in Queenstown or another stunning location in New Zealand, understanding the pros and cons of each season will help you plan the perfect wedding. Best Seasons to Get Married in NZ are right here – Best Seasons to Get Married in NZ

Choosing the Perfect Location: Queenstown, Auckland, Wellington, and More

Locations and venues are two very different things. As a lot of weddings in NZ are destination weddings, picking the right location that works for you as a couple if really important. If you love hiking, mountains and adrenaline filled activities a place like Queenstown is probably ideal. Nestled amidst the majestic Southern Alps, it promises breath-taking mountain vistas and lakeside serenity, ideal for a romantic alpine wedding. If you love a city that boasts stunning harbours and iconic landmarks, maybe Auckland is your vibe. Whether you envision an intimate affair or a grand celebration, choose a place that resonates with your personalities.

Working with Local Vendors and Suppliers

Whether you are eloping or having a big wedding in Aotearoa it’s important to lock in your vendors early. New Zealand is an iconic destination wedding country and these big events happen all year round. My advice is to research local vendors through Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and reach out to someone who you connect with. If its your photographer, pick a local photographer whose images you engage with and envision yourself being in those images. Same for the other venues and local vendors in Queenstown.

Budgeting Tips for Destination Weddings

Planning your dream destination wedding in New Zealand? Let’s talk budgeting tips so you can say “I do” without breaking the bank! The cost of weddings in New Zealand—it can vary, so know what you’re working with. Next, splurge smart by prioritising must-haves like venue, catering, and professional photography. if you are looking to cut corners and save some cash consider tying the knot in the off-peak season or on a weekday for sweet deals. Lastly, stash some extra cash in a rainy day fund to handle any surprises that pop up along the way. With these wedding budgeting tips NZ, you’ll be ready to celebrate in style, stress-free!

I hope this guide helps you plan you dream day. Reach out if you have any wedding photography questions. I’d be more than happy to help.

Contact Krista May Weddings

Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand, Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand, Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in New Zealand

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