9 reasons you'll love a Hawke's Bay wedding

Re-published from New Zealand Weddings magazine

As long summer days stretch well into Autumn and the sun continues to shine in Hawke’s Bay, there’s never been a better time to plan a destination wedding in foodie paradise.

It is oft said that a meal without wine is a like a day without sunshine; thankfully, for couples considering Hawke’s Bay for their big day, the region has ample supplies of superb wine, sumptuous food and beautiful sunny days.

Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine country offers engaged couples everything they could dream about for their perfect day. From the warm landscapes that form stunning backdrops for ceremonies and photos, to the fresh, bountiful produce and exquisite wine that makes the region taste so darn good; combine this with gorgeous venues and spectacular scenery, bespoke suppliers, talented florists and amazing photographers, and there’s plenty to raise a toast to in Hawke’s Bay.

This vast culinary region never detours far from a tasty bite, meaning wherever you choose to get married, Hawke’s Bay has you, and your guests, covered. Read on for nine epic reasons why you will love a Hawke’s Bay wedding.

A Treat For Foodies

Hawke's Bay is New Zealand's kitchen. From the fresh-off-the-line seafood in Wairoa District, to the decadent dining of Napier City, the produce powerhouse that is Hastings District, to the grazing goldfields of Central Hawke's Bay, whatever you choose for your wedding breakfast, your guests will love devouring the paddock to plate cuisine that Hawke’s Bay is renowned for.

And whether it is a sit-down dinner, a standing canape service, a beachside picnic, or something altogether different, Hawke's Bay's professional caterers can craft the menu to perfectly match your day. You're also in safe hands with our wedding cake stylists, renowned for creating visually beautiful, deliciously flavoured, centre pieces.

Wine and Beverage

And then there’s the wine. Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest and second largest wine growing region. Known internationally for its award-winning wine, the region boasts more than 30 cellar doors and 70 wineries meaning you can take your pick from buttery chardonnays, full-bodied reds and delightful bubbles to toast with.

What’s more, Hawke’s Bay is also home to many artisans as well who are producing boutique ciders, craft beers and spirits.

Stunning Venues

Hawke's Bay is blessed with an array of venues to stage your wedding, including many with onsite accommodation. From luxury retreats and picturesque churches to high-end hotels and intimate wineries and restaurants, there is something in Hawke’s Bay to match your wedding day aesthetic.

Whether you’re hosting 20 or 200 guests, you can choose a venue that fits you and is fit to tell your love story.

Elopements

Prefer to keep things simple? Hawke’s Bay is a wonderful destination for your runaway elopement or destination mini-wedding.

A number of the luxury lodges offer all-inclusive packages or you can DIY it, choosing from world-class operators who can make almost anything happen. Swap out the big affair for an intimate ceremony with spectacular photos across Food and Wine Country, and wow people with the images whenever you choose to do so.

The Scenery

Whether you’re scaling Te Mata Peak, looking out over pristine coastline, or wandering through luscious vineyards, Hawke’s Bay makes the picture-perfect backdrop for your day. You and your guests will be spoilt for choice when it comes to spectacular wedding photos and Instagram-worthy selfies before, during and after your wedding day.

Mini-moon

Combine your wedding day with an unforgettable escape in Food and Wine Country. Stay on for a couple of extra days or even a week to relax and simply enjoy in each other’s company. Hide away at one of the region’s stunning lodges or glamping sites, indulge in delicious food and wine, or simply spend your days at the tranquil coastal villages of Waimarama, Ocean Beach or Waiptaiki in the Hastings District or one of the six standout beaches in Central Hawke’s Bay.

Bespoke Suppliers

Hawke’s Bay wedding suppliers have decades of experience assisting couples from all over the world have their perfect Hawke’s Bay wedding. The region’s high quality suppliers offer everything from classic or traditional, to contemporary, vintage, romantic, rustic, beach or even DIY, ensuring you achieve your dream wedding day look and feel.

Easy Access

With direct daily flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and driving distance from almost all of the North Island, Hawke’s Bay is the ideal place to gather all your loved ones. No matter where they have to travel from, there’s an easy route to Food and Wine Country.

Great In Every Season

With balmy summer evenings and crisp clear winter days, springtime landscapes filled with daffodils and bouncy lambs, and the changing of leaves lighting up the region in Autumn, Hawke’s Bay is spectacular in every season.