Beach weddings in New Zealand: Why you should have one and what you need to know…

New Zealand is famous for its natural beauty, and its pristine beaches are no exception. From the rugged West Coast beaches to the white sandy beaches in the North, there are plenty of options for couples who want to get married with their toes in the sand. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of having a beach wedding in New Zealand and what you need to know to make your day unforgettable.

Why Have a Beach Wedding in New Zealand?

There are several reasons why a beach wedding in New Zealand is an excellent choice for couples. Firstly, the natural beauty of New Zealand’s beaches provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. With crystal clear waters, stunning sunsets, and unique rock formations, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot for your wedding photos.

Secondly, having a beach wedding in New Zealand allows you to enjoy the natural environment that this beautiful country has to offer. With clean, clear waters, soft sands, and sunny skies, your guests can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the location while celebrating your special day.

Thirdly, a beach wedding in New Zealand allows you to escape the traditional wedding venues and create a unique and personalised wedding experience. Whether you want to get married on a secluded beach or a popular public beach, you can create a wedding that reflects your personality and style.

The Best Beaches for Weddings in Auckland

Auckland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. Here are some of the best beaches for weddings in Auckland:

1. Piha Beach: Piha Beach is a rugged and dramatic West Coast beach that offers stunning scenery for your wedding photos. With black sands, towering cliffs, and rolling waves, Piha Beach is the perfect spot for couples who want to add a touch of drama to their wedding photos.
2. Muriwai Beach: Muriwai Beach is another West Coast beach that offers beautiful scenery for your wedding photos. With its wide expanse of sand, stunning views of the Tasman Sea, and unique rock formations, Muriwai Beach is a popular spot for couples who want a beach wedding with a difference.
3. Orewa Beach: Orewa Beach is a popular North Shore beach that offers a beautiful location for your beach wedding. With its long stretch of white sand and calm waters, Orewa Beach is the perfect spot for couples who want a tranquil and serene wedding location.
4. Takapuna Beach: Takapuna Beach is a popular beach located in the heart of Auckland. With its calm waters, beautiful views of Rangitoto Island, and excellent facilities, Takapuna Beach is an excellent choice for couples who want a beach wedding with all the amenities.
5. Mission Bay: Located just a short drive from Auckland’s CBD, Mission Bay is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers a stunning view of Rangitoto Island and their are several nearby beaches that also make great alternatives for couples looking for a convenient and picturesque location for their wedding. The beach is framed by beautiful Pohutukawa trees, which bloom with bright red flowers during the summer months, providing a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos.
6. Long Bay Beach: Located on the North Shore of Auckland, Long Bay Beach is a beautiful white sand beach that is surrounded by regional parkland. It offers stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Long Bay Beach is an ideal location for couples who are looking for a secluded and intimate beach wedding.
7. Tawharanui Beach: Located just an hour’s drive north of Auckland, Tawharanui Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach that is surrounded by regional parkland. It offers stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and sunbathing. Tawharanui Beach is an ideal location for couples who are looking for a quiet and intimate beach wedding.
8. Wenderholm Regional Park: a stunning natural reserve located on the coast of Auckland, and it offers a picturesque and tranquil setting for a wedding. With its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf, Wenderholm provides a range of unique and stunning backdrops for wedding photos.

Pros and Cons of Having a Beach Wedding in New Zealand

Like any wedding location, there are pros and cons to having a beach wedding in New Zealand. Here are some things to consider:

Pros:

1. Stunning scenery for your wedding photos.
2. An opportunity to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty.
3. A unique and personalised wedding experience.
4. A chance to escape traditional wedding venues.
5. Can be a more relaxed vibe than a traditional venue or estate
6. Bridal party portraits can be taken at the same beach location which saves on time

Cons:

1. Weather can be unpredictable, so have a contingency plan in place.
2. Beaches can be crowded, especially during peak season.
3. You may need to obtain permits or permissions for your wedding ceremony.
4. Dress code can be challenging, with high winds and sand.
5. You will need to delegate the job of setting up and packing down to a group of people (either hired help or guests) so that everything is in place for the day, and removed afterwards.
6. May need to hire extra equipment such as sound system, seating, shade, etc…
7. A bad weather alternative is necessary to organise just in case it rains

What You Need to Know When Planning a Beach Wedding in New Zealand

If you’re considering having a beach wedding in New Zealand, here are some things to keep in mind when planning your special day:

1. Choose the right time of year: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to choose the right time of year for your beach wedding. Summer (December to February) is the most popular time for beach weddings in New Zealand, but autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) can also offer good weather for outdoor weddings.
2. Check permit requirements: Many of New Zealand’s beaches are public spaces, and you may need a permit to hold your wedding ceremony. Check with your local council to find out what permits or permissions you need to obtain.
3. Choose the right beach: Not all beaches are suitable for weddings, so do your research and choose a beach that is easily accessible, has ample parking, and is suitable for the size of your wedding party.
4. Hire a professional photographer: A beach wedding in New Zealand provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos, but it’s important to hire a professional photographer who is experienced in beach photography. A professional photographer will know how to work with the light and the elements to capture stunning photos of your special day.
5. Dress appropriately: Beach weddings can be challenging when it comes to dress code. High winds and sand can make it difficult to wear traditional wedding attire, so consider opting for more relaxed clothing that is still appropriate for your wedding day.
6. Plan a rainy day alternative and have a way to communicate this to your guests if it needs to be actioned.

In conclusion, a beach wedding in New Zealand can provide a unique and unforgettable experience for couples who want to celebrate their special day in a beautiful and natural setting. With stunning scenery, ample options for wedding photography, and a chance to create a personalised wedding experience, it’s no wonder that beach weddings in New Zealand are becoming increasingly popular. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of having a beach wedding and take the necessary precautions to ensure that your special day runs smoothly. By following these tips and doing your research, you can have the beach wedding of your dreams in New Zealand.

To see more fun beach weddings in Auckland and the Coromandel, head HERE