The best wedding venues in the Palmerston North and the Manawatu

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Orlando Country, one of Palmerston North’s premiere wedding venues.

The Best Manawatu Wedding Venues

Are you planning your dream wedding in Manawatu, New Zealand? Look no further! Here’s a list of the best wedding venues in Palmerston North, Feilding and the Manawatu region. From stunning rural landscapes to historic buildings, Manawatu offers a range of options to suit every couple's style and vision. Let's dive in and explore the venues in the heart of the Manawatu.

Orlando Country

Located just outside Palmerston North, Orlando Country offers a picturesque rural setting perfect for a romantic wedding. The beautifully manicured gardens and expansive views create a serene atmosphere for your special day. With a variety of settings available, including a charming chapel, an elegant ballroom, and an outdoor gazebo, Orlando Country can accommodate weddings of all sizes. The on-site team is known for their exceptional attention to detail, ensuring your wedding day is flawless from start to finish.

Orlando Country
748 Rangitikei Line
Palmerston North
orlandocountry.co

Wharerata

A stunning historic estate, Wharerata is nestled among lush gardens and towering trees just minutes away from Massey University. With its unique blend of heritage architecture and modern amenities, this venue offers a classic yet contemporary ambiance. The grand ballroom, with its high ceilings and stunning chandeliers, provides a perfect backdrop for an elegant wedding reception. Wharerata also offers on-site accommodation, allowing you and your guests to unwind and continue the celebration in style.

Wharerata
Massey University
Main Drive
Palmerston North
wharerata.co.nz

AbbEy Theatre now the Sunday Collective

For those seeking a wedding venue with a touch of theatrical charm, Abbey Theatre in Palmerston North is a standout choice. This beautifully restored 1930s cinema creates a unique and intimate ambiance for your special day. The majestic auditorium, complete with a stage and plush seating, can accommodate both your ceremony and reception. Abbey Theatre's team is well-versed in creating memorable experiences, ensuring your wedding is a showstopper. Run by the legendary team at The Crafted and Co.

The Sunday Collective
395/397 Church Street
Palmerston North
sundayscollective.nz

The Refectory Building at Massey

Nestled within the picturesque campus of Massey University, The Refectory is a venue known for its modern elegance. This architectural gem offers a versatile space that can be transformed to suit your wedding style, whether you envision a contemporary affair or a more traditional celebration. The floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the venue in natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. With its convenient location and stunning views, The Refectory is a favorite choice for couples in the Manawatu region.

The Refectory
Refectory Drive
Massey University
Palmerston North
masseyvenues.co.nz

Te Puna

Nestled in the heart of Feilding, New Zealand, Te Puna is a hidden gem amongst wedding venues. For couples seeking a picturesque and unforgettable setting for their special day, Te Puna offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and modern elegance.
Once you arrive at Te Puna, it’s easy to understand why it has become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the region. The property boasts lush green landscapes, magnificent gardens, and a stunning backdrop of captivating mountain views. It is truly a location that embodies the natural charm and scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Te Puna
375 Lethbridge Road
Feilding
te-puna.nz

Makoura Lodge

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Tararua Ranges, Makoura Lodge stands as a true gem among wedding venues in New Zealand. This idyllic retreat combines the rustic charm of the countryside with an elegant touch, making it a perfect choice for couples looking to create timeless memories on their special day.
The venue's secluded setting offers privacy and exclusivity, allowing couples to immerse themselves in the tranquil surrounds. With sprawling manicured gardens, towering trees, and stunning mountain views, this picturesque location offers a breathtaking backdrop for wedding.

Makoura Lodge
736 Makoura Rd
Apiti
Feilding
makouralodge.co.nz

The Chalet

The Chalet run by the team at Boatshed Catering, boasts a range of exquisite facilities, designed to cater to every need and preference. With its spacious and elegant reception hall, the venue can comfortably accommodate weddings of all sizes. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, The Chalet is versatile enough to create the perfect atmosphere for you.
The venue also offers a team of experienced wedding coordinators who are dedicated to bringing your vision to life. From creating personalised wedding packages to assisting with decor and customising menus, their attention to detail ensures that no stone is left unturned.

The Chalet
154 Centennial Drive,
Hokowhitu,
Palmerston North
boatshedcatering.co.nz

Stunner of a wedding at Makoura Lodge

“A couple who vorteks together, stays together”

— Minke & Ben

Another wild and crazy year is about to wrap up. From saying I’d no longer shoot back to back weddings to ending the year shooting 4 in 5 days it was like we’re in another dimension. Working with incredibly talented creatives and meeting so many beautiful and kind people.

Big yuge shout out to all my couples this year, you’ve been hella supportive, open minded and understanding - I’ve heard about some horror stories and I’m glad I don’t have any to share. To my Auckland and overseas couples who couldn’t quite cross the line, we’ll get there! And to all the businesses that got me on for projects big and small from cookie pies, to flowers to luxury SUVs.

Big takings from this year; it was a lot like last year and next will probably be the same. Majority of Reels are f’n weird. Celebrate your wins and surround yourself with good people and stay away from the negative chat. Signing out to 21 with the good vibes from my last wedding of the year for Minke & Ben. Find someone who is willing to vortekky a drink with you on the back of a truck. #davidle_nz @davidle_nz

Venue Makoura Lodge Dress Bridal Studio Cake Sweet & Tonic

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Winter Wedding at Makoura Lodge of Lily and Josh

Soaking in the last of the Makoura Lodge sunset overlooking the Ruahine Ranges

“The winter wedding of Lily and Josh at Makoura Lodge”

— David Le Photography

Winter treats us to some bloody delicious light but with that the odds of a bit of stormy rain and wind also increase. But lucky for us we had the sketchy stormy weather in the morning and it cleared perfectly as the ceremony rolled around for Lily + Josh.

Quality people, with quality vendors, few juicy snaps from the weekend

Venue Makoura Lodge Dress Hera Couture Signage The Paper Gazelle Florals Evoke Floral Stylist

Wild weather wedding at Makoura Lodge

Makoura Lodge Wedding

Was another weekend of a double banger in the mighty Manawatu region. Saturday took me out to Makoura Lodge in Apiti. The cold morning, scorching hot sun, the gusting wind and the torrential rain, we had it all for Jess and Jono’s big day.

But with a bit of on the fly decisions, plenty of beersies and the uncles, we got it done!

Tipi's, Clear Marquees and Sperry Tents for your wedding day

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Tipi's, Clear Marquees, Sperry Tents and Alfresco

Someone has dropped a knee and popped the question and you’ve said yes. Now you want to hold your wedding day but you don’t know where to look to book your venue.

If you’re lucky enough to have a bit of space on the farm or a section or a venue with a bit of a clearing, here’s a list of some great alternatives to creating your own unique wedding venue. From unique looking Tipi Tents, to clear marquees to Sperry Tents, take a look at the options below.

Feel free to get in touch if you’re after more info and drop me a line at hello@davidle.co.nz

Tipi Tents | Topkata

Much of the unique character and charm of the TopKåta Tipi can be put down to the poles - natural, practical, environmentally friendly and truly beautiful.  Each pole is created from 100 year old, late-maturing, chemical-free Spruce sourced from sustainable forests in Sweden.  The cold causes these trees to grow very slowly, producing exceptionally strong timber.  The TopKåta Tipi canvas are custom made, lightweight, waterproof and wind resistant, offering sustainable, eco-friendly solution to the PVC normally used in marquee structures.

Featured wedding Penelope + Mikey on Together Journal | Website Topkata Tipi Tents

Clear Marquees | Party Up

Have an amazing view and want to be able for you and your guest to enjoy them but also want some shelter from the elements? A clear marquee is the perfect option to enjoy those 360 degree views.

Featured wedding Tara + Lee featured on Wild Hearts | Website Party Up

Sperry Tents | Flagship Events

These are classic handmade ivory coloured sailcloth and Spruce pole tents that require no lining or frilly detailing.

The natural colour of the sailcloth reflects a warm and embracing light viewed from both inside and out. The high sides which can be covered or left open as required, provide for perfect sightlines and extended views whether standing or seated within the tent.

Featured wedding Nicole + Logn featured at NZ Weddings Magazine | Website Flag Ship Events

Alfresco Lounging | Flock Events

Don’t want to be boxed in by four walls. Why not forgo a marquee or tent altogether and dine and party under the stars alfresco styles. You can create beautiful spaces with the helps of Mustard Folk, Flock Events, Love Club Hire and many more by setting up lounging and cocktail areas for you and you guests to chill and mingle on your special day.

Featured wedding Kate + Hamish featured on Wild Hearts | Website Mustard Folk, Flock Events, Love Club Hire

The top 10 best Best Wedding Venues in Wellington, Wairarapa and the Manawatu

The Best Wedding Venues in Wellington, Wairarapa and the Manawatu

Looking at getting married in the lower North Island of New Zealand and don’t know where to start looking for the perfect wedding venue?

Here I’ve compiled a list of some of the best wedding venues throughout the Wellington, Wairarapa and the Manawatu.Whether you’re looking for a some minimalistic, italian inspired architecture, a beautiful winery or a place with a bit of soul and rustic charm. Check out the list below.

Feel free to get in touch if you’re after more info and drop me a line at hello@davidle.co.nz

The Milk Station | Otaki

The Milk Station is one of my favourite venues not only in Wellington but in New Zealand. Situated a hour between Wellington and Palmerston North in the small beach town of Otaki. Italian inspired architecture, beautiful gardens and plenty of onsite accommodation and parking - it’s the total package.

Featured wedding Polly + Rhys on Together Journal | Website The Milk Station

Tarureka Estate | Featherston

After a venue with a bit more soul and that rustic charm. Tarureka Estate location in Featherston in the Wairarapa is the perfect venue. With onsite homestead and cottage for you and the family to get ready and a handful of options to hold your ceremony from out on the tennis court law or upstairs in the loft, this place is truly special.

Featured wedding Amanda + Ryan on Together Journal | Website Tarureka Estate

Poppies | Martinborough

A classy, modern and minimalistic winery found in the heart of Martinborough. The crew here run a tight ship and if you’re after a team to provide you with a structured day, the team at Poppies deliver. Concrete walls and floors and plenty of sweeping winery views are close by in the Wairarapa.

Featured wedding Ryan + Charlotte featured at Sink or Surface | Website Poppies

Orlando Country | Palmerston North

Orlando Country is one of the premiere wedding venues in the Manawatu. Situated just over hour and a half from Wellington and a couple minutes from Palmerston North city. If you’re after a venue with a great team, good food and a driving range, look no further than this gem in Palmerston North.

Featured wedding Alana + Rob featured at NZ Weddings Mag | Website Orlando Country

The Boatshed | Wellington City

Found in the heart of Wellington City. The Boatshed overlooks both the harbour and the city. With it being set just across the road from numerous laneways and city architecture, you’ll be able to get an urban look to your wedding photos.

Featured wedding Sylvana + James featured on The Wild Flower | Website Boatshed

Makoura Lodge | Apiti

Want something rural and a bit different to the norm? You’ll find Makoura Lodge in the heart of the Manawatu. Around a hours drive north of Palmerston North. Plenty of onsite accomodation, room for guest to also tent and some of the best Roast Pork Crackling and Polenta Chips around. A popular venue for farmers and people who are rural at heart.

Featured wedding Victoria + James at Makoura Lodge | Website Makoura Lodge

Sudbury | Te Horo

Sudbury is a 40 min drive up from Wellington City and around a hour from Palmerston North. A old horse stable turned into an all in one wedding venue with a ceremony area overlooking farmland of Kapiti and a beautiful rustic clean space with concrete floors give a rustic feel with a modern and minimalistic twist. The option to BYO alcohol without any corkage charge is also a big drawcard. Shoutout for the designated photographer car park too, brownie points.

Featured wedding Ben + Jessica at Sudbury | Website Sudbury NZ

Lacewood Estate | Martinborough

Another venue with rustic charm - on the same styling and feel as Tarureka Estate, Lacewood provides another option within the Wairarapa. Get married under the trees and celebrate the night away in the barn, only a few minutes drive from Wellington and Martinborough.

Featured wedding Nina + Kevin at Lacewood | Website Lacewood

Brackenridge | Martinborough

With a full suite of accommodation, a day spa and only a couple minutes from Martinborough township. Brackenridge is an all in one wedding venue. With a beautiful lawn space overlooking the Remutakas in Wellington and multi purpose reception space, it ticks plenty of boxes.

Featured wedding Sam + Maggie featured in NZ Bride and Groom | Website Brackenridge

Tironui Farm | Martinborough

Wanting sweeping landscapes of the beautiful farmland of the Wairarapa. Need space for a food truck and outdoor games. Tironui Farm is the perfect space for people after a more relaxed and casual wedding day.

Featured wedding Ankit + Mads featured on The Wild Flower | Website Tironui Farm