The 11 Best Wedding Venues in Christchurch
Your wedding day is the most special day of your life. Naturally, you’d like to get married in a place that both appeals to you and your partner.
Christchurch has a great array of dreamy spectacles and wonderful places, from the classic churches to rustic vineyards.
Of course, that also includes stunning reception venues, where you can drink wine and be merry under the stars, or share funny stories with your friends and family.
So here, we’ve collated the very best wedding venues in Christchurch. Take your pick from them to make it a day to remember for you and your other half.
The Best Wedding Venues in Christchurch
If you’re ready to see them, here’s our roundup of the best wedding venues in Christchurch!
1. Christchurch Gondola
BEST FOR | Mountaintop dream wedding |
SERVICES | Wedding event venue Business conference & event venue Gala dinner venue |
WEBSITE | https://gondola-functions-venue.business.site/ |
ADDRESS | 10 Bridle Path Rd, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | 03-384 0310 |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Sunday: 9.00 AM – 12.30 AM |
PRICES | Get a quote here |
Christchurch City is well-known for its vibrant galleries, trams, and gondolas. For a one-of-a-kind gondola wedding, you should book with Christchurch Gondola!
You’ll be taken up by gondola to the summit of Mt Cavendish. Upon arriving at the wedding venue, familiar faces and smiles of friends and family will greet you.
For your reception, you can choose from Crater Rim or Pinnacle Room, or combine them both to seat up to 200 of your guests.
You’ll be catered for by Mona Vale with soul-satisfying food plus desserts. Their Continental events team will ensure your event goes smoothly.
Anytime you can soak in the spectacular panoramic views from the balcony. It’s going to be a wedding you’ll look back with relish even after many years down the road.
Pros
- Ride up by gondola to your wedding and reception
- Spectacular panoramic views
- Delicious food and desserts served by Mona Vale
- Large capacity of up to 200 guests
Cons
- Takes time to take all the guests up with the gondola
- Limited places to photograph
2. Omarino Wine Park
BEST FOR | Romantic rustic-style wedding |
SERVICES | Functions for wedding, corporate, and special occasions Premium wine varieties |
WEBSITE | http://omarinowinepark.co.nz/ |
ADDRESS | 638 Harewood Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | 027 406 5403 (Vineyard) [email protected] |
Located just 5 minutes from Christchurch CBD, Omarino Wine Park is the perfect setting for a rustic wedding and flavourful wine-tasting amid a tranquil environment.
One of the largest wedding locations in the city, the award-winning vineyard can host your wedding, reception, canapes, and photo-ops in one location.
It has a graceful banquet room and deck where you can delight in the gourmet food and special homemade wines like Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Black.
As their wedding space is flexible, you get to decide where you want to tie the knot or slow-dance to your theme song, making for a truly unforgettable wedding celebration.
Pros
- Flexible venue choices
- Accessible location
- Award-winning wine selection
- Seating capacity of up to 200 people
- Helpful and caring staff
Cons
- No cover for weather elements
Customer Reviews
Omarino Wine Park has garnered lots of positive comments from clients. It is said to have a stunning surrounding, great atmosphere, wonderful staff, and a large wine list.
Jessie S., who was recently been married at Omarino Wine Park, wrote on Facebook:
“We had our wedding here in March – the grounds are just beautiful and the staff were fabulous. This is a lovely family run place and I highly recommend it. Also beautifully decorated which made it easy for us, not too much to do!!”
Another client, Vicki, said this:
“Beautiful venue, wonderful staff, everything we could have asked for on our special day. Thank you so much Eileen and your team for being such great hosts. You really do go the extra mile! 110% would recommend. ”
3. Transitional Cathedral
BEST FOR | Classic but fabulous wedding |
SERVICES | Wedding events Events & functions |
WEBSITE | https://www.cardboardcathedral.org.nz/ |
ADDRESS | 234 Hereford Street Christchurch, New Zealand 8011 |
CONTACT DETAILS | +64 3-366 0046 |
OPERATING HOURS | Tuesday – Wednesday: 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM Thursday – Saturday: 9.00 AM – 4.00 PM Sunday: 7.30 AM – 12.00 PM |
PRICES | Basic fee: $1,000 Additional fees for the church music group (if requested) |
Transitional or Cardboard Cathedral is the first sustainable church of its kind in the world. It is made mostly out of cardboard, as well as steel and recycled stained glass.
It’s shaped like a pyramid from the outside — reminding one of Louvre in Paris, France — and has large coloured mosaic glass shining brightly as the sun hits it.
You can invite hundreds of people here for your wedding and reception (catered by Moveable Feasts). The main hall of the foyer can merge and hold up to 700 people.
Also, an organist, choir, instrumentalist, and soloist can be provided for an extra fee. It will be a classic but nonetheless fabulous wedding event for everyone present.
Pros
- 2 function rooms (foyer and main hall)
- Huge capacity of up to 700 guests
- Organist, soloist, instrumentalist and choir available
Cons
- Limited spots for photoshoots
4. Peppers Clearwater Resort
BEST FOR | Lavish wedding celebration |
SERVICES | Weddings Rooms Dining Golf Conferences Explore |
WEBSITE | https://www.peppers.co.nz/clearwater/weddings/ |
ADDRESS | Clearwater Avenue, Northwood, Christchurch, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | +64 3 360 1063 [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | 24/7 |
PRICES | Please enquire here |
Peppers Clearwater Resort is a superb choice, whether for a passionate elopement or a fantasy marriage. It’s located just a short drive away from Central Christchurch.
Standing on 465 acres of land, the venue has an awe-inspiring lake, beautiful stone courtyards, and verdant hills and gardens.
Their elegant reception room is adorned with carpets, clothed tables, and firefly-inspired lights. Everyone will also enjoy a delectable meal courtesy of the Lakes restaurant.
Furthermore, their Kaikainui Room has tall windows that let in plenty of natural light. The place will feel close to nature’s bosom, and you will really enjoy socialising here.
And you get a wedding organiser to work with you. This lets you focus on looking good at your wedding, rather than worry about decorating the place and counting guests.
Pros
- Spacious wedding venue accommodating up to 144 persons
- Experienced wedding organiser
- Centrally located
- Great catering options
Cons
- Small reception area
5. Local at Riccarton House
BEST FOR | Bespoke wedding event |
SERVICES | Tailored wedding packages |
WEBSITE | https://www.thequarters.co.nz/ |
ADDRESS | 16 Kahu Road, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | 03 348 6190 [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Sunday: 9.00 AM – 4.00 PM |
Local at Riccarton House is a historical homestead constructed in the mid-1800s. They host all sorts of weddings—indoors or outdoors, big or small.
It’s hands down one of the best wedding venues in Christchurch for their lovely building and a number of park and native tree environments in its 12-acre land.
You can opt for a standing-style or seated wedding which can seat 64 guests. If that’s not enough, you can choose their Marquee Lawn which can accommodate 200 people.
Riccarton House is not just about the wedding, though—it’s also about the food. Their menu is seasonal, fresh, and bespoke with seafood, vegetables, meat, and fruit choices.
Getting married in winter? You can organise your wedding inside the cosy house where there are open fireplaces and candlelights for an intimate wedding.
Pros
- Flexible wedding event options
- Experienced staff
- Have an on-site catering
Cons
- Relatively smaller guest capacity
Customer Reviews
Apart from the charming house, the food and the amazing staff were also praised by clients.
Cushla N. shared this of Riccarton House on Facebook:
“The #1 wedding venue! Beautiful grounds, unique house evoking memories from yesteryears, our history preserved for eternity. The food was excellent, couldn’t fault the menu. Staff were helpful, patient and friendly. Thank you, Riccarton House & Bush! ”
Here’s a brief comment of another client, Lynette:
“5 star to Riccarton House .
Amazing staff and so helpful.
This is a beautiful place for a wedding.”
6. Tai Tapu Hotel
BEST FOR | Good Food and Beverages |
SERVICES | Function Room Rental, Menu and Entertainment Options |
WEBSITE | https://www.taitapuhotel.com |
ADDRESS | 780 Old Tai Tapu Road, Tai Tapu, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | 03 329 6819 [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | Restaurant hours 12pm – 9pm Tuesday – Sunday Bar Hours 3pm – Late Monday 12pm – Late Tuesday 11am – Late Wednesday – Sunday |
Sometimes good food and good drinks are what makes a wedding great — the Tai Tapu Hotel is proof of that. They’ve been serving only the best to couples for many years now.
Their top-notch facilities include a function room, a beer garden with outdoor tables, as well as a playground with bouncy castles. With the help of their expert and dedicated staff, your wedding is sure to be one to remember.
Pros
- Wide area for events
- Good food and beverage selection
- Friendly staff
- Courtesy shuttle available
Cons
- Relatively old facilities
7. French Farm Winery
BEST FOR | Natural back drop for your ceremony |
SERVICES | Wedding Venue, Bistro Dining, Room Accommodations |
WEBSITE | https://www.frenchfarmwinery.co.nz/ |
ADDRESS | 12 Winery Road, RD 2, Akaroa 7582, Canterbury, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] | +64 03 304 5784 |
OPERATING HOURS | Friday – Sunday: 12–10pm; check for availability |
PRICES | Contact French Farm Winery to fix rates |
What better way to wed other than to do it surrounded by the beautiful nature? The French Farm Winery offers this, a spot for a scenic wedding like no other. Situated in the valley of the French Farms, the events place is the perfect mix of calm and beauty, perfect for pictures to keep.
It can also house up to more than 120 guests, so you can guarantee everyone will have enough space to watch the ceremony.
For any more inquiries, you can simply contact the staff of French Farm Winery and they’ll be glad to accommodate you and your possible requests.
Pros
- Indoor and outdoor chairs and tables
- Manicured grounds and many outdoor and covered seating areas
- 4 luxury French style studios in the Barrel Room
- Has a venue in case of rainy days
Cons
- Set-up and clean-up is shouldered by clients
8. Westhaven Gardens
BEST FOR | Rural Garden Wedding |
SERVICES | Wedding Packages, Wedding Ceremonies, Wedding Reception, Photo Venue |
WEBSITE | http://westhavengardens.co.nz |
ADDRESS | Torlesse Road West Melton Canterbury, New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | Westhaven Gardens Wedding Venue – 03 347 4470 Rochelle Gray – 027 615 5073 Fay Green – 027 248 9993 [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | 24/7 |
Westhaven Gardens offers a venue that’s perfect for rustic weddings. As an Award Winning Wedding Venue, its quality is guaranteed.
Their complete wedding packages include all that you’ll need for your wedding. Reception packages and Photo Venues are also available for those interested.
Other add-ons can also be included in your package, such as silk lining, fairy lights, chair covers, interlocking flooring, and more. You won’t need to worry about the costs either — the affordable prices and top-notch services ensure that you’re getting the best band for your buck.
Pros
- Complete wedding packages
- Cost-effective and all inclusive
- Package add-ons available
- Friendly and personalised services
Cons
- Limited event space
9. The George
BEST FOR | Wedding Packages |
SERVICES | Dining, Wedding and Events Place, Room Accommodations, Meetings and Function Rooms |
WEBSITE | https://www.thegeorge.com/ |
ADDRESS | 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch 8013,New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | [email protected] | +64 3 379 4560 |
OPERATING HOURS | Contact The George for availability |
PRICES | Prices for weddings depend differ each client |
Considered to be a versatile spot in Christchurch, The George is simply one of the best venues for any event, including weddings!
They offer beautiful spaces, each differing when it comes to preferences. The George has a beautiful garden if you’re into outdoors, or a private house and residence dining room for a more intimate feel.
Whatever you decide on, the staff at The George will do their best to make your day perfect and stress-free. You can contact them for availability, and even hire them for catering so you won’t have to search for another.
Pros
- Indoor and outdoor venues
- One-stop solution to wedding needs
- Beautiful sceneries
Cons
- A bit pricier compared to other venues
Customer Reviews
Here’s what Jon Adams, one of the guests on a wedding, had to say about The George’s overall service as a wedding venue and accommodations:
“Beautiful place to stay when you’re in Christchurch.
The location is amazing. Just across the road from Hagley park, and only a couple of minute walk to bars, cafes, and restaurants in Victoria street. Whilst we were there we had a couple of morning walks to New regent street for breakfast.
The reception staff are so friendly and are always happy to help with a smile on their face. We were staying there during our wedding and it’s the perfect place to stay for that. The staff were very interested and wished us a lot of congratulations. On our wedding night we were greeted by some delicious macarons and a congratulations card.
The rooms are beautiful and well maintained daily.
Great place to stay for a few nights.”
10. Garden Hotel & Restaurant
BEST FOR | Wedding Packages |
SERVICES | Dining, Wedding and Events Place, Room Accommodations, Meetings and Function Rooms |
WEBSITE | https://www.gardenhotel.co.nz/weddings |
ADDRESS | 110 Marshland Road Shirley 8061 Christchurch |
CONTACT DETAILS | Hotel Phone: 0800 009898 (03) 385 3132 Restaurant Phone: (03) 386 0088 |
OPERATING HOURS | Contact for availability |
PRICES | Prices for weddings depend differ each client |
Next on our list is a venue option that makes an excellent choice for soon-to-be-wed couples with friends and family coming up from different locations.
Garden Hotel & Restaurant, as one may surmise from the name, is a highly sought after Christchurch wedding venue that features event and wedding spaces, accommodations, and dining spaces.
Couples looking to have their wedding at Garden Hotel & Restaurant will be happy to know that the team is dedicated to bringing clients’ dream weddings to life. They offer a range of options to tailor the event and do everything in their power to assist in making the wedding a resounding success.
Garden Hotel & Restaurant features a function room with a canopy that resembles a bride’s veil. There is also the “Love on the Lawn” venue, which offers a more picturesque feel given the garden location.
If you’re looking for something more intimate, there’s no need to look further. Garden Hotel & Restaurant also offers the “Iris Room,” which overlooks the garden area.
Garden Hotel & Restaurant has various wedding packages to choose from. The team is happy to accommodate any and all inquiries and proposals via their website.
Pros
- Outdoor and indoor locations available
- Hands-on dedicated wedding team
- Available all year-round
Cons
- May be booked and busy
11. Darjon Vineyard
BEST FOR | Outdoor Wedding |
SERVICES | Dining, Wedding and Events Place, Room Accommodations, Meetings and Function Rooms |
WEBSITE | https://darjon.co.nz |
ADDRESS | 454 North Eyre Rd Swannanoa 7476 Canterbury New Zealand |
CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +64 03 312 0233 Email: [email protected] |
OPERATING HOURS | — |
PRICES | $3000 incl. GST for 2021/2022 $3500 incl. GST for 2023 |
Now, if you’re looking for something a little closer to nature for your wedding, we strongly recommend Darjon Vineyard for your big day.
Darjon Vineyard can be found nestled in Canterbury, and is only a short distance away from the Christchurch City centre. With 8 acres of vines on the premises, this venue creates an intimate garden setting that is highly sought after, especially during the warmer seasons.
The Darjon Vineyard team takes great care in maintaining the beauty of the premises. Moreover, they have steadily built up a reputation for excellence in presentation, transforming the vineyard into the dream venue of many soon-to-be-wed couples.
The seated dining can accommodate up to 100 people, with the optimal amount being 65 to 95. Music is also provided upon request.
Other services that Darjon Vineyard offers include catering, wedding coordination, and horse and carriages.
Pros
- Offers catering services
- Can accommodate up to 100 guests
- Offers the BYO option with no mark up
- Small deposit fee of $250
Cons
- May be booked and busy
FAQS about the Best Wedding Venues in Christchurch
And that ends our list of the best wedding venues in Christchurch. You see, there’s no need to go afar when you can have a beautiful wedding right here in the city!
Have you made up your mind yet about the wedding places we listed? If you have any questions, kindly leave us a comment, and we’ll get back to you in a jiffy.
Additionally, you might want to read about the best wedding photographers in Christchurch. These pros will capture all the special moments at your wedding from start to finish.