ON-SITE WEDDING SETTINGS

THE BLUE BATHS - see the venue

The diversity of our grand old building with its Spanish Mission style and elements of Moderne architecture offers of variety of settings. For those planning a large gala affair, the glamorous expanse of the Lido lounge is the perfect wedding venue. For an intimate celebration, the charming ambience of the upstairs Tearoom with its potted palms and French doors opening to glorious garden views is ideal. If a romantic poolside wedding appeals, consider saying “I do” with sparkling blue waters and a cascading fountain as the backdrop. The Blue Baths is also the obvious reception choice for those planning an outdoor garden wedding in the adjacent Government Gardens.

OFF-SITE WEDDING SETTINGS

GOVERNMENT GARDENS - see the venue

The tranquil beauty of the Government Gardens, a large park located in Hinemaru Street on the fringes of Rotorua’s CBD, is a favourite location for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Among the highly desirable choices are the Victorian panache of the Band Rotunda, the gracious old-world style of the historic Te Runanga Tearooms, and the Spanish Mission elegance of the Blue Baths. In addition to the Blue Baths, band rotunda and tearooms themselves, the gardens are rich in photogenic backdrops the Klamath Falls Rose Gardens are a particular favourite during the summer months whilst statues, pools, park benches, fountains, a gardener’s cottage and the historic Rotorua Museum provide even more creative scope.

TE RUNANGA TEAHOUSE - see the venue

Te Runanga, (The Meeting House), built in 1903 lies at the heart of the 50 acre Government Gardens. It became the social centre of the nearby spa facilities. The place to be seen, for invalids, tourists and locals alike, relaxing and drinking tea or mineral waters from the local springs. A gracious villa with wide verandas on three sides it’s perfectly positioned to enjoy the expansive views across the Gardens to the city’s two most iconic heritage buildings, the Tudor styled Bathhouse Museum and contrasting Spanish Mission architecture of The Blue Baths.

THE REDWOODS AT WHAKAREWAREWA FOREST - see the venue

The stunning peace and beauty of The Redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest is a calm green oasis, a world away from the a bustling city, yet only a few minutes from Rotorua’s CBD. This unique location promises another magical backdrop for those who want an outdoor feel to their wedding ceremony and/or reception. Despite the outdoor setting, a permanent sail canopy provides a spectacular all weather venue for up to 300 guests for ceremony and cocktails or a banquet setting for 200.

We also have access to four other areas within the forest. Although they don’t offer all-weather cover, each has fabulous individual stand-out features - from spectacular stone walls and lovely lawn areas to intimate bush-clad settings – that appeal for those looking for a different setting for their wedding.

THE ORCHARD, LAKE TARAWERA - see the venue

The Orchard, with its spectacular location on beautiful Lake Tarawera just 8km from Rotorua’s CBD, provides a unique setting for staging outdoor weddings with a difference. Imagine a marquee set up on the lake-edge surrounded by native bush and bird-song. The bride and groom can even arrive by boat or helicopter at this very special venue. Of course service, style and great food come along with the stunning location when the Historic Venues and Fine Food Services teams are involved in creating memorable weddings.