Hawke’s Bay, with its sun-drenched vineyards, stunning landscapes, and world-class wines, is the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable wedding in one of the world’s Great Wine Capitals. More than just a beautiful backdrop, the region’s wineries provide a unique blend of elegance, rustic charm, and exceptional hospitality, making them the perfect choice for couples seeking a memorable celebration. Imagine exchanging vows amidst the vines, followed by a reception featuring award-winning wines paired with locally-inspired cuisine. That dream can become a reality in Hawke’s Bay.
What makes a Hawke’s Bay winery the perfect venue for a wedding?
Breathtaking Scenery: From panoramic vineyard views to picturesque gardens and architecturally stunning buildings, Hawke’s Bay wineries offer diverse and captivating settings for your ceremony and reception. Imagine your photos with the golden light filtering through the vines at sunset – pure magic!
World-Class Wine & Cuisine: Naturally, wine is a central feature. Imagine offering your guests a selection of exquisite wines crafted on-site, perfectly complementing a menu of locally sourced ingredients. Many wineries boast acclaimed restaurants and catering teams, ensuring a culinary experience to remember.
Dedicated Event Spaces: Some wineries have dedicated event spaces designed specifically for weddings, offering flexibility for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. These spaces often include indoor and outdoor options, allowing you to tailor your wedding to your specific vision not matter what season.
Experienced Wedding Teams: Winery staff are experienced in hosting weddings and can assist with everything from planning and logistics to catering and wine selection, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Black Barn
The epitome of romance for an intimate wedding, Rush Cottage is a one hundred- and twenty-year-old shepherd’s cottage that has been transformed into luxury two-bedroom accommodation in the heart of the vineyards of Black Barn. And you can transform it again into a magical wedding setting for up to 60 guests.
A beautiful made-to-fit sailcloth marquee is set up on the front lawn looking right out across the vineyards of Hawke’s Bay. Wooden floors, tables, chairs and lighting are all part of the package. As are two nights and a late check out for the bride and groom to spend their first nights in the cottage. Stunning food and wines from Black Barn’s Bistro and cellar door right next door complete the unforgettable experience.
If you want to go smaller for your wedding the renowned The Cabana just across Black Barn Road from the Cottage can be transformed into a wedding venue for a maximum of 30 guests.
And even smaller still, the Black Barn Wedding Team are experts at elopement packages including everything from the ceremony onsite to a memorable meal and accommodation. Black Barn were winners of the Accommodation and Arts and Culture categories at last years’ Great Wine Capitals Best Of Wine Tourism awards.
Craggy Range Winery
Nestled beneath the dramatic Te Mata Peak, Craggy Range offers breathtaking views and a sense of grandeur. Their elegant function spaces and exceptional cuisine, paired with their iconic wines, create a truly luxurious wedding experience. The setting itself provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, capturing the beauty of the region. Craggy Range took out the Architecture and Culinary categories at the 2025 Best Of Wine Tourism awards.
Church Road Winery
Steeped in history Church Road offers a unique and elegant setting. Their beautifully landscaped grounds and impressive indoor spaces provide a sense of timeless romance. Imagine celebrating your special day surrounded by the history and heritage of one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries. Church Road also put sustainability at the heart of everything they do and were winners of the Best Of Wine Tourism Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices award 2025.
Beyond these examples, numerous other wineries in Hawke’s Bay offer exceptional wedding experiences. Each winery possessing its own unique charm and character, allowing couples to find the perfect venue to match their style and vision.
Planning your Hawke’s Bay winery wedding
Book well in advance: Popular wineries can book up quickly, especially during peak season.
Consider your budget: Winery weddings can range in price, so it’s important to establish a budget early on.
Visit potential venues: Seeing the venues in person will help you envision your wedding day and determine if it’s the right fit.
Communicate with the wedding coordinator: The winery’s wedding coordinator will be your point of contact and can help you with all aspects of planning.
A wedding in Hawke’s Bay wine country is more than just a celebration; it’s an experience. It’s about creating lasting memories surrounded by beauty, indulging in exquisite wines and cuisine, and celebrating your love in a truly unforgettable setting. So, raise a glass to your future and say “I do” to the perfect wedding destination in one of the world’s Great Wine Capitals!