Wedding Venues in Hawke’s Bay
As a Hawke’s Bay wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories at some of the region’s most breathtaking and iconic venues. Whether you’re planning a large vineyard celebration or a quiet elopement with sweeping views, Hawke’s Bay offers a stunning range of wedding locations — each with its own character, light, and atmosphere. Below is a curated list of some of my favourites, along with insights into what makes each one special to photograph.
Black Barn Vineyards – Havelock North
A world-class venue with a warm, boutique feel. Black Barn offers a choice of ceremony and reception spaces, surrounded by vines, mature trees, and architectural charm. Golden hour here is sublime — perfect for elegant, editorial-style wedding imagery.
Website: https://www.blackbarn.com/
The Old Church – Meeanee, Napier
A beautifully restored 1860s church wrapped in ivy and romance. The Old Church combines historic charm with modern luxury, offering both garden ceremonies and dramatic indoor settings. The character and textures here lend themselves perfectly to timeless photography.
Website: https://www.theoldchurch.co.nz/
Craggy Range Winery – Havelock North
With Te Mata Peak as your backdrop, Craggy Range delivers drama and sophistication. Modern buildings, lush grounds, and architectural lines make this an ideal setting for stylish, high-end wedding photography.
Website: https://www.craggyrange.com/
Cape Estate – Te Awanga
Perched on a hilltop with views to the sea, Cape Estate is a private venue with stunning open skies and rustic-luxe style. It’s peaceful, secluded, and ideal for dreamy portraits in golden light — or dramatic skies.
Website: https://capeestate.co.nz/
Mission Estate Winery – Taradale, Napier
New Zealand’s oldest winery offers grand colonial beauty, tree-lined drives, and vineyard backdrops. The classical setting is ideal for couples who want a wedding steeped in history and elegance — with photos to match.
Website: https://www.missionestate.co.nz/
Te Awa Winery – Gimblett Gravels
Relaxed and rustic with just the right dose of polish, Te Awa Winery features beautiful vines, olive groves, and a vineyard restaurant. Soft, natural light and earthy tones make it a favourite for romantic storytelling.
Website: https://teawa.co.nz/
Napier CBD & Marine Parade
Looking for something a little different? Napier’s Art Deco architecture, palm-lined streets, and coastal views offer a vibrant and unique canvas for urban weddings or pre-wedding sessions. Great for couples wanting something with character and creativity.
Website info: https://www.napier.govt.nz/visitors/see-and-do/
Te Mata Peak – Havelock North
Bold and windswept. Te Mata Peak offers panoramic views, dramatic ridges, and a sense of scale that’s hard to beat. I love photographing elopements and adventurous couples here — it’s raw, emotional, and breathtaking.
Website info: https://www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/te-mata-peak
Ormlie Lodge – Taradale
A stately home surrounded by gardens, Ormlie offers vintage charm and intimate luxury. It’s a perfect match for elegant weddings and editorial-style portraiture with soft light and ornate interiors.
Website: https://www.ormlielodge.co.nz/
Clearview Estate Winery – Te Awanga
By the sea, with palm trees and vines, Clearview Estate is a laid-back but vibrant venue with a touch of boho charm. Relaxed weddings, big laughs, and ocean air — all part of the experience here.
Website: https://clearviewestate.co.nz
Church Road Winery – Taradale
One of Hawke’s Bay’s most historic wineries, Church Road offers majestic grounds, grand interior spaces, and award-winning wine. It’s an excellent venue for couples wanting elegance, heritage, and a vibrant reception atmosphere.
Website: https://www.churchroad.co.nz
Elephant Hill – Te Awanga
A modern, architectural gem by the sea. Elephant Hill offers high-end luxury with stunning vineyard and ocean views. Its bold lines and dramatic light make it perfect for contemporary wedding photography.
Website: https://www.elephanthill.co.nz
Meadowood House – Bay View
This Art Deco homestead provides boutique accommodation and a marquee-ready garden space. With vintage interiors and tipi-style reception options, it’s ideal for stylish couples seeking a unique, intimate vibe.
Website: https://meadowood.nz
St George’s Restaurant – Havelock North
Elegant and food-focused, St George’s offers a Mediterranean-style courtyard, vineyard surroundings, and chef-driven cuisine. A hidden gem for intimate weddings with exceptional catering.
Website: https://www.stgeorgesrestaurant.co.nz/weddings
River House – Havelock North
A peaceful, boutique property surrounded by native bush and overlooking the Tukituki River. It’s a serene, naturally lit space for relaxed weddings with a strong connection to nature.
Website: https://www.theriverhouse.co.nz/
Central Hawke’s Bay
Pukeora Estate – Waipukurau
A hilltop country estate that accommodates large weddings with sweeping views, garden and hall ceremony options, and on-site accommodation—flexible and versatile for all styles.
Chapelwick Estate – Porangahau
A grand coastal homestead set among manicured gardens, minutes from the beach. It offers romantic, private weekend wedding options with country charm.
Gwavas Garden Homestead – Tikokino
Historic, colonial homestead with heritage trees and intimate ceremony lawns—perfect for garden weddings and small events.
Website: https://www.gwavas.co.nz/
Ranui Farm Park / Ranui Farm Barn – Takapau (Central Hawke’s Bay)
A working sheep and beef farm turned festival-style venue. Its modern barn and farmland views are great for relaxed weddings, team events, lawn games, and even camping. Versatile indoor and outdoor settings up to ~100 guests.
https://www.ranuifarmpark.co.nz
Oruawharo Homestead & St Vincent’s – Takapau
A beautifully restored 150-year-old homestead surrounded by gardens and woodlands. It offers a stunning, historic setting for special celebrations and weddings.
http://www.oruawharo.com
Wherever you choose to say your vows in Hawke’s Bay, your wedding venue should reflect your story — and your wedding photography should do the same. If you’re looking for a photographer who knows these venues intimately and can bring out the best of their light, tone, and mood, I’d love to help. Reach out anytime for advice or availability.