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With stunning scenery, swathes of beautiful nature and coastline, adventure activities, water sports, a sub-tropical climate and mouth-watering food and wine, Northland is one of the most enjoyable destinations in New Zealand to visit, and an easy choice for either your wedding or honeymoon – or both. Here are some of our favourite spots.
For Weddings
Baylys’ Farm
Situated in the heart of the Bay of Islands, Baylys’ Farm is a 2000-acre property rich in New Zealand history and has been within the Bayly Family since 1929. Bordering the coast of the Pacific Ocean and with numerous private beaches, it offers a breathtakingly unique backdrop for your wedding. The venue has two dedicated events areas, The Beach and the Wool Shed, complete with marquees and providing an all-in-one option for your ceremony and reception. baylysfarm.co.nz
Liddington Gardens
Northland’s most loved garden wedding venue, Liddington Gardens offers elegant surrounds and exceptional service, whether you’re looking for an extravagant wedding or a simple elopement. The highly sought-after, park-like oasis guarantees picturesque perfection and a special experience in absolute peace and privacy. The new contemporary reception facility, Shed109, offers a spacious and stylish indoor option. Creative designer Susi Liddington is also on hand to ensure your dream day becomes a reality. liddingtongardens.com
Redwoods Treehouse
For a wedding venue that’s outside the box – or up a tree in fact – Redwoods Treehouse is a unique option for smaller groups. The striking pod-shaped structure is built 10-metres high in a redwood tree near Warkworth, north of Auckland, with access provided by an elevated treetop walkway. The pod itself holds 30 guests at seated tables or 50 guests for a stand-up function. The venue is fully licensed, with catering available through a choice of preferred supplies, and has a dedicated private road entry. redwoodstreehouse.co.nz
For Honeymoons
Kauri Cliffs
Named in the top five resorts in Australasia in Travel + Leisure magazine’s 2019 ‘World’s Best’ awards, this stylish property sits atop cliffs overlooking the pristine coastline of the Bay of Islands. Accommodation options include suites, villas or the Owner’s Cottage, all designed by celebrated interior decorator Virginia Fisher with spacious bathrooms and east-facing balconies offering magnificent sea views. As well as access to tennis courts, walking trails, three private beaches and a fitness centre with an indoor heated lap pool, jacuzzi and sauna, Kauri Cliffs guests also have access to The Spa, nestled at the edge of a tranquil totara forest and offering massage, facials, hydrotherapy and more. robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/kauri-cliffs
Eagles Nest
Honeymoon in the soaring climes of Eagles Nest, one of New Zealand’s most exclusive villa resorts. Featuring just five ultra-luxe private villas set atop an island-like peninsula in the breathtaking Bay of Islands, expect to have everything taken care of with a dedicated concierge while you relax and enjoy the stunning sea views and spectacular natural surroundings and a multitude of amenities from a fully stocked wine cellar and resident chefs with a larder featuring freshly caught fish, venison, lamb, crayfish to swimming pools, spa therapies, adventure activities, water sports and even private beaches. eaglesnest.co.nz
The Glasshouse
With 180 degree panoramic views, this spacious, architecturally designed one-bedroom retreat has everything you need for whatever kind of honeymoon you’re looking for, whether it’s enjoying a tranquil bottle of bubbles, getting cozy by the outdoor fire, enjoying a long shower with ocean views or napping in a hammock. Further afield, explore the 20-acre peninsula on which The Glasshouse sits, with its own tracks and secret coves for romantic strolls, swimming, fishing, kayaking or picnics. theglasshousenz.com
For Both
Duke of Marlborough
Set on the waterfront in the heart of romantic Russell, picturesque historic hotel The Duke of Marlborough provides the ultimate wedding venue where you can have your ceremony, reception, photos and accommodation all in one special spot. New Zealand’s first licensed hotel, operating since 1827, this charming destination offers an on-site wedding coordinator, award-winning restaurant, a grand ballroom to comfortably seat up to 140 guests and 38 rooms plus a bridal suite. theduke.co.nz
Carrington Estate
A grand estate at the heart of Northland, the 3000-acre estate on the pristine and picturesque Karikari Peninsula is a world-class beachside escape. Spread over four breathtaking kilometres of secluded white sand coastline, with a wide variety of luxury accommodation (from cosy lodge rooms to self-contained villas and spacious houses), winery and vineyard, an ocean-side 18-hole championship golf course and 900 acres of restored wetlands, Carrington offers everything you might need before, during and after your big day. carrington.co.nz
*Main Feature Image – Baylys’ Farm, Hayley Adele Photography
