Thinking of eloping or getting married in stunning New Zealand? Wanaka is one of the most sought-after destinations for weddings, offering everything from lakeside ceremonies to alpine elopements and vineyard celebrations.
Below are some of my favourite wedding ceremony and reception venues in the Wanaka region.
Rippon Hall & Vineyard
Rippon Hall is one of the most iconic wedding venues in the region, known for its sweeping vineyard setting and uninterrupted views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
It’s ideal for medium to large weddings, offering a beautiful balance of architecture, landscape, and open-air celebration space. The natural amphitheatre setting makes it especially memorable for ceremonies at golden hour.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Roy’s Peak / Mount Roy
Roy’s Peak is one of the most dramatic elopement and photography locations in New Zealand. With panoramic views over Lake Wanaka, it’s perfect for intimate ceremonies or adventurous wedding portraits.
Best suited for couples planning a simple, experience-led elopement rather than a traditional venue setup.
.jpg)
.jpg)
The Olive Grove Wanaka
The Olive Grove Wanaka offers a beautifully landscaped ceremony space surrounded by mature olive trees and native plantings.
Set above Lake Wanaka, the venue provides expansive views across the lake, surrounding mountains, and farmland. It’s a peaceful, open-air setting that works well in all seasons.
The Lookout Lodge
The Lookout Lodge is a private venue surrounded by manicured gardens and expansive mountain views, just a short drive from Wanaka township.
It can accommodate both ceremony and reception settings, with on-site accommodation and facilities for larger guest numbers, making it a practical all-in-one wedding venue.
Criffel Station Woolshed
Criffel Station Woolshed offers a unique rural wedding experience with two distinct ceremony options: the restored woolshed or the Stone Hut Terrace.
Both locations showcase expansive Central Otago landscapes, making it a versatile choice for couples wanting a relaxed, rustic, and scenic celebration close to Wanaka.
Coromandel Peak
Coromandel Peak is one of the most breathtaking alpine photography locations above Wanaka, often accessed by helicopter for intimate ceremonies or portraits.
The views over Lake Wanaka are vast, dramatic, and completely unobstructed — ideal for couples wanting a truly cinematic experience.
.jpg)
Cardrona Chapel
Cardrona Chapel is a charming, historic chapel known for its simple beauty and iconic alpine backdrop.
It’s a popular choice for couples wanting a traditional ceremony setting with a distinctly New Zealand landscape.
.jpg)
.jpg)
That Wanaka Tree
That Wanaka Tree is one of New Zealand’s most photographed natural landmarks, sitting alone in Lake Wanaka.
It works beautifully for symbolic lakeside ceremonies or as a portrait location after a nearby wedding, especially when styled with minimal florals and seating.
.jpg)
