Can I Get Married at an Airbnb in NZ? | AirBnb Wedding Guide NZ
When you think of your dream wedding day, you might not picture a traditional venue or ballroom, and that’s totally okay! More and more couples are moving away from the expected and leaning into what feels more intimate and authentic to them.
One of the most exciting trends I’ve seen as an intimate wedding photographer lately is couples choosing to say their vows at an Airbnb. You get privacy, freedom, and a unique space that feels like your own personal getaway.
So, can you get married at an Airbnb in New Zealand? The answer is a resounding yes, but there are a few things you’ll want to know before diving in. Let’s go through everything you need to plan an Airbnb wedding here in beautiful NZ.
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Is it Legal to Get married at an Airbnb in New Zealand?
First things first — yes, you can legally get married at an Airbnb! New Zealand law doesn’t require you to have your wedding at a registered venue. You just need to make sure you’ve got the legal side sorted: a valid marriage license, an officiant, and a venue that allows it.
Make sure the property you choose doesn’t have any local council restrictions that could cause issues. This could apply to certain noise or guest number limits, depending on the location. If it’s just the two of you eloping, this might not even be a problem, but it’s worth checking out to avoid any surprises.
Choosing the Right Airbnb for Your Wedding
This is where the fun begins—choosing the perfect Airbnb! The options are endless, from cozy mountain lodges to beachfront homes or dreamy countryside escapes.
When picking the right spot, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Capacity and Space: How many people are you planning to invite? Some Airbnbs are perfect for elopements, while others might comfortably fit a small group. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony, make sure the property has enough space for that too.
Ambiance & Aesthetics: Think about the vibe you want for your day. Is it modern and sleek? Rustic and cozy? Airbnb properties can offer the exact look and feel you're going for.
Location: New Zealand has some of the most breathtaking scenery, so take advantage of it! You might be considering something near a beach in Coromandel, a remote hideaway in Fiordland, or a luxury stay in Queenstown. Each region has its own uniqueness, so it’s all about what kind of backdrop fits your wedding vision.
Accessibility: Don’t forget to consider practical aspects like guest access, parking, and how easy it is to get there. If you’re having a few guests, make sure they’ll be able to comfortably travel to and from the location.
What to Ask the Host
Once you’ve found a few Airbnbs that catch your eye, it’s important to have a conversation with the host. Here are some key things to ask:
Permission to Host a Wedding: Some Airbnbs explicitly state whether events or weddings are allowed. If it’s not clear in the listing, always ask. It’s better to have their approval and avoid any potential issues.
Extra Fees: Some hosts may charge an additional event fee or have certain policies around gatherings. Be upfront about your plans so you know exactly what to expect.
Property Rules: Each property has its own set of rules, so find out if there are any restrictions you should be aware of—whether it’s noise control, guest limits, or specific decor rules.
Creating Your Wedding Day Setup
Now comes the exciting part—transforming your Airbnb into a wedding venue! One of the perks of having your wedding at an Airbnb is that you have so much creative freedom. Here are a few tips:
Decor & Styling: Since you’re likely working with a smaller space, think about keeping decor simple but meaningful. Consider temporary or reusable decorations that won’t damage the property, and you can always rearrange furniture to create the perfect ceremony spot or reception layout.
Bringing in Vendors: Be sure to communicate with any vendors (like your photographer, caterer, or florist) about the logistics of the space. The more they know about the venue, the smoother things will go!
Space Limitations: If the Airbnb is smaller or doesn't have a lot of outdoor space, consider creative alternatives—like a small outdoor altar or an indoor setup with cozy seating.
Pros of Getting Married at an Airbnb
So why choose an Airbnb for your wedding? Here are a few standout reasons:
Cost Efficiency: Depending on the property, Airbnb can be far more budget-friendly than a traditional venue, especially if it includes accommodation.
Personalized Experience: It’s all about the personal touch. An Airbnb wedding feels unique and intimate, tailored to your vision rather than to a venue’s schedule.
Built-in Accommodation: One of the major perks of using Airbnb is that it doubles as a place to stay. This is especially great for elopements or small weddings, where the line between getting ready, celebrating, and relaxing afterward is beautifully blurred.
Flexibility with Vendors and Timeline: You won’t be held to a rigid schedule. Want to get ready slowly with coffee in hand? Perfect. Want to have a late-night dance party under the stars? Also perfect.
Cons of Getting Married at an Airbnb
Of course, there are a few cons to consider:
Lack of Event Infrastructure: Unlike traditional venues, Airbnbs won’t come with a wedding coordinator, staff, or event-ready spaces.
Logistics: Parking, guest capacity, and setup for larger groups can be trickier.
Noise & Neighbourhood Restrictions: Remember that many Airbnbs are located in residential areas, so you’ll need to be mindful of noise levels and respectful of the neighbors.
Damage & Responsibility: Since Airbnbs are private homes, there’s always the risk of accidental damage. You’ll need to be extra careful with furniture, decor, and keeping the place pristine.
How to Find Wedding-Friendly Airbnbs in NZ
Finding the right Airbnb for your wedding can take a bit of digging, but it’s worth it to ensure you’ve chosen a space that aligns with your vision. Here’s how to make the search easier:
Read the Listing Carefully: Pay close attention to the description, house rules, and amenities. Some hosts will explicitly mention whether they welcome weddings or events. Look for clues like “large outdoor spaces,” “perfect for gatherings,” or “great for elopements.”
Search the Reviews for "Wedding": A great way to find out if a property has hosted weddings before is by searching the word "wedding" in the reviews. If other couples have already tied the knot there, chances are it’s a wedding-friendly spot. Reviews can also give you insight into how the property worked for their special day, as well as any tips or challenges they faced.
Search by Location: If you’ve got your heart set on a specific backdrop—like the beach, mountains, or vineyard—use Airbnb’s map feature to narrow your search to that region. The location is everything, especially for those intimate ceremony photos!
Wanting a lakeside wedding? The location filters are super handy in helping you find the right Airbnbs
Look for Spacious Outdoor Areas: When you’re planning a wedding or elopement, outdoor space is often a priority. Look for Airbnbs with large gardens, decks, or scenic outdoor spaces where you can set up your ceremony or reception.
Reach Out to Hosts Directly: Even if the listing doesn’t explicitly mention weddings, don’t be afraid to reach out to the host and ask. Let them know your plans and ask if they’d be open to hosting a wedding or small event. Be respectful of their property and outline how many people will attend, and whether there will be any vendors involved (like caterers or photographers). Often, clear communication can make all the difference.
Check for Amenities That Could Make Your Day Easier: Some Airbnbs come with built-in bonuses that are perfect for weddings, like hot tubs, fireplaces, BBQs, or spacious kitchens for catering. These added amenities can elevate the whole experience and make the space even more inviting for your wedding day.
Consider Superhosts: Superhosts are often more experienced with accommodating different types of stays, including special events. They tend to have great communication and go the extra mile to ensure you have everything you need. While not all Superhosts allow weddings, it’s a good place to start.
15 Best Airbnb Wedding Venues in New Zealand
Looking for inspiration? Here are a few incredible Airbnbs in New Zealand that make for beautiful wedding spots:
North Island Airbnbs
1. Oke Bay Beach House, Bay of Islands
Capacity: Sleeps 16 guests, suitable for 20-30 guests for small weddings.
Best Features: Award-winning retreat with panoramic coastal views, large decks, and access to two beaches. Ideal for outdoor ceremonies and intimate receptions.
Setting: Coastal paradise with nearby beaches, kayaking, and hiking trails. Perfect for a relaxed, nature-filled wedding day.
Event Friendliness: Previously hosted intimate weddings, with expansive indoor-outdoor flow and a large grassed area for gatherings.
Accessibility: Secluded location, 35 minutes from Russell. On-site parking and boat mooring available.
On-Site Amenities: Twin ovens, fridges, BBQ, outdoor fire, SkyTV, Netflix, and SONOS music system.
Vendor Considerations: Spacious kitchen for catering; plenty of room for setup by florists and other vendors.
Weather Backup: Covered decks and indoor spaces for all-weather use.
Nearby Attractions: Hiking trails, kayaking spots, and marine reserves nearby for adventurous couples.
Price Range: From $2,900+ per night.
Capacity: Sleeps 16 guests in the main house, with room for 6 more in the Stables (additional cost).
Best Features: Grand Scottish-style mansion on a private peninsula with a secluded beach, indoor pool, hot tub, and helipad. Optional private chef available for a luxury dining experience.
Setting: Situated on a working farm above a private beach with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Secluded and peaceful, ideal for a private, intimate wedding.
Event Friendliness: Can host small weddings, with the property’s stunning outdoor areas and beach access perfect for ceremonies. Extra charges apply for events; the host must be notified in advance.
Accessibility: Gated property with limited parking for up to 6 vehicles. Steep walk to the private beach, so consider accessibility for less mobile guests.
On-Site Amenities: Indoor pool, hot tub, media room, fireplaces, and full kitchen. Beach access, with a 10-minute walk down to the water through beautiful pōhutukawa forest.
Vendor Considerations: Plenty of space for caterers, florists, and other vendors. Private chef service available for a premium dining experience.
Weather Backup: Indoor spaces, including the grand living areas and media room, can be used for an indoor ceremony or reception.
Nearby Attractions: The private beach offers a picturesque setting for photos, and the Whangamata area is known for its natural beauty and nearby surf beaches.
Price Range: From $4,650+ per night.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 16 guests with 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
Best Features: Surrounded by rolling hills, ponds, and woodlands, with a swimming pool and cabana for summer weddings. Large decks and extensive grounds are ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Setting: Located in Auckland’s renowned wine region, offering a rural escape with picturesque landscapes perfect for intimate celebrations.
Event Friendliness: Great for small, intimate weddings and events. The property’s spacious outdoor areas and charming character-filled interior create a beautiful setting for your big day.
Accessibility: Easy access from Auckland, with ample parking on-site. Ideal for guests attending nearby wedding venues or exploring the local wine region.
On-Site Amenities: Swimming pool, central heating, fireplace, and large decks for outdoor entertaining. The eclectic interior design provides a unique backdrop for photography.
Vendor Considerations: Plenty of space for caterers and other vendors, especially for outdoor setups. Contact the host to discuss specific event requirements.
Weather Backup: Central heating and spacious indoor areas make it a cozy option for winter weddings or in case of rain.
Nearby Attractions: Located in the heart of Auckland’s wine region, perfect for wine tours and outdoor activities during your stay.
Price Range: From $2,582+ per night.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 20 guests (14 in beds, plus comfortable couches and mattresses).
Best Features: Exceptional property with stunning views of Mt Pirongia, a pool, putting green, and a spacious pergola. Ideal for family gatherings and intimate celebrations.
Setting: Rural retreat just 10 minutes from Hamilton, close to cafes and outdoor activities. Perfect for a peaceful wedding setting with easy access to local attractions.
Event Friendliness: Great for small weddings and family occasions, with ample outdoor space for ceremonies and receptions. Additional charges apply for larger gatherings or events.
Accessibility: Easy access from Hamilton, with parking for up to 5 cars. The spacious interior and outdoor areas are suitable for various guest needs.
On-Site Amenities: Designer kitchen, luxurious bedding, indoor and outdoor lounging spaces, and extensive gardens with unique features like orchards and a trampoline.
Vendor Considerations: Plenty of space for caterers and other vendors; contact the host for specifics regarding events.
Weather Backup: Double-glazed living spaces and plenty of indoor seating options ensure comfort during colder months or unexpected weather.
Nearby Attractions: Close to Hobbiton, Tauranga, Raglan, and Waitomo Caves, perfect for day trips and exploration.
Price Range: From $1,510+ per night.
Capacity: Sleeps up to 6 adults and 2 children with 3 bedrooms; max capacity 16 people.
Best Features: Stunning views, luxurious indoor/outdoor living, and a private retreat designed by award-winning architect Andrew Patterson. Ideal for intimate gatherings.
Setting: Nestled in nature with a private track to Karekare Beach and nearby Karekare Falls. Perfect for couples wanting a serene, picturesque wedding location.
Event Friendliness: Suitable for small ceremonies and family celebrations. Enjoy multiple outdoor zones for dining and relaxation.
Accessibility: Located on 4.5 acres with a private track to the beach. Limited mobile coverage; great WiFi available for communication.
On-Site Amenities: Fully equipped stainless steel kitchen, Smart TV with Netflix, and outdoor dining area with lounge settings. Comfortable bedding and relaxing spaces.
Vendor Considerations: Space for catering and setup; however, the no-party policy must be observed.
Weather Backup: Indoor living areas with gorgeous views ensure a cozy atmosphere in case of inclement weather.
Nearby Attractions: Close to Karekare Beach, Karekare Falls, and a short drive to Piha Beach for more exploration.
Price Range: From $873+ per night.
Capacity: Sleeps up to 18 guests with flexible bedding configurations across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
Best Features: Expansive grounds featuring a floodlit tennis court, swimming pool, mini lake, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Perfect for special occasions and corporate retreats.
Setting: A grand property that combines luxury with natural beauty, ideal for families and groups seeking a spacious and tranquil getaway.
Event Friendliness: Excellent for large family gatherings or group events, with multiple lounge areas and dining spaces for shared meals and celebrations.
Accessibility: Ample parking for up to 8 vehicles. Easy access to gardens and recreational facilities.
On-Site Amenities: Chef-friendly kitchen with butler's pantry, spacious open-plan living areas, and multiple heating options for comfort year-round.
Vendor Considerations: Suitable for caterers and event vendors, but please check in advance about any specific arrangements.
Weather Backup: Indoor spaces are warm and inviting, ensuring comfort during cooler months or unexpected weather.
Nearby Attractions: Explore the stunning grounds and enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
Price Range: From $2,140+ per night.
Capacity: Sleeps up to 20 guests with ample bedding options across multiple rooms.
Best Features: Charming 1886 Victorian private hotel with a beautiful garden. Cozy, spacious, and perfect for family reunions or small weddings.
Setting: Located in a quiet, heritage area of Masterton, offering both tranquility and convenience to nearby town amenities.
Event Friendliness: Ideal for intimate gatherings with family and friends. Plenty of room for dining and socializing together.
Accessibility: Whole house booking available with good parking for up to 6 vehicles.
On-Site Amenities: Roomy kitchen with new appliances and a kitchen garden filled with organic vegetables and herbs for guest use. Two heat pumps for comfort.
Vendor Considerations: Space available for catering if needed; contact the host for specific arrangements.
Weather Backup: The spacious interior and heat pumps ensure a cozy atmosphere regardless of the weather.
Nearby Attractions: Close to parks, swimming pools, and the local town for exploring.
Price Range: From $951+ per night.
South Island Airbnbs
1. Maple Lodge, Wanaka
Capacity: Accommodates up to 14 guests in 7 en-suited bedrooms, with an option to hire an 8th bedroom for a total of 16 guests.
Best Features: Spacious and private venue ideal for large groups, wedding parties, or family gatherings. Beautiful rural setting just 5 minutes from Wanaka town.
Setting: Located near walking and biking tracks by the Cardrona and Clutha Rivers, offering serene mountain views.
Event Friendliness: Available for events of up to 60 people, including post-wedding BBQs or small wedding receptions (pre-approval and extra fees apply).
Accessibility: Whole lodge booking available with free Wi-Fi, BBQ area, laundry, drying room, and spa pool.
On-Site Amenities: Bedrooms feature individual heat pumps, air-conditioning, smart TVs, and comfortable beds (king and twin/super king options). Two living areas, a large kitchen, and extensive gardens offer plenty of space.
Vendor Considerations: Great for catered or self-catered events; ensure event approval and agreement to additional terms.
Weather Backup: Indoor fireplaces and heat pumps keep the lodge cozy during colder months.
Nearby Attractions: Close to Wanaka town and outdoor activities like biking and hiking.
Price Range: From $1,685+ per night.
Capacity: Sleeps up to 16 guests, suitable for small weddings and events with large outdoor areas.
Best Features: Luxury mansion with 6,000m² of private landscaped gardens, central heating, a commercial kitchen, free minibar, fresh-water hot pool, and barrel sauna. Offers a semi-rural, tranquil setting.
Setting: Located in Balclutha, surrounded by beautiful, private gardens. Ideal for a peaceful, intimate wedding away from city life.
Event Friendliness: Expansive grounds including a croquet lawn, outdoor seating, and large entertaining areas. The property is well-suited for intimate weddings and gatherings.
On-Site Amenities: 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, formal dining room for 8, large kitchen with an additional table, spacious lounge for 10+, outdoor seating, and landscaped gardens. Private off-street parking is available.
Weather Backup: Indoor spaces and sheltered outdoor areas for all-weather use.
Price Range: From $1,415+ per night.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 17 guests in 8 bedrooms, perfect for group retreats, family getaways, or intimate gatherings.
Best Features: Historic 1886 farmhouse nestled within a 420-hectare working farm. A tranquil rural escape with stunning views, gardens, and proximity to beautiful beaches.
Setting: Surrounded by rolling paddocks and coastal landscapes, offering a peaceful country atmosphere ideal for relaxing and reconnecting with nature.
Event Friendliness: Available for intimate celebrations, workshops, and gatherings with prior approval. Spacious outdoor areas for long lunches, dinners, and playtime for children.
Accessibility: Full use of the farmhouse and garden. The property is fully fenced with ample parking for vehicles and boats.
On-Site Amenities: Fully restored interior, playground, large garden, verandas for outdoor relaxation, and cozy fireplaces. Access to numerous walking and hiking trails nearby.
Vendor Considerations: Ideal for self-catered or catered events. Guests can enjoy long meals in the garden and cozy evenings by the fire.
Weather Backup: Indoor spaces and verandas offer backup options for inclement weather.
Nearby Attractions: Close to various beaches (5-15 minutes away) for swimming, surfing, kayaking, and more.
Price Range: From $1,200+ per night.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 14 guests in 6 Yurt rooms (with an option to add more for a surcharge). Perfect for group escapes, retreats, or family getaways.
Best Features: Unique yurt accommodation with luxurious linens, wool bedding, and wood burners for ambiance. Includes an architecturally designed Lodge, a luxury Tipi, and a wood-fired hot tub.
Setting: Idyllic, natural environment with expansive lawns and mountain views. A peaceful, scenic escape near Wanaka.
Event Friendliness: Events are permitted with host discretion and additional terms. Ideal for retreats or intimate gatherings.
Accessibility: Exclusive access to the Lodge, Yurts, Tipi, and surrounding grounds. The Lodge features a self-catering kitchen, banquet dining, and spacious bathrooms.
On-Site Amenities: Large dining area seating up to 24, wood burners, spa area with an outdoor shower, BBQ area, and magnificent mountain vistas. Tipi lounge area for relaxation or gatherings.
Vendor Considerations: Self-catering or catered options available in the fully equipped kitchen. Great for events with flexible dining and relaxation spaces.
Weather Backup: Indoor Lodge spaces and yurts with wood burners for cozy, all-weather options.
Nearby Attractions: Scenic walks, outdoor activities, and proximity to Wanaka’s natural beauty.
Price Range: From $2,935 per night
Capacity: Sleeps up to 10 guests, ideal for small weddings with close family.
Best Features: Charming villa nestled beside a tranquil lake in Styx Mill Reserve. The perennial garden with an old English walnut tree creates a magical setting for intimate celebrations.
Setting: Secluded and peaceful location, perfect for a quiet and scenic wedding experience surrounded by nature.
Event Friendliness: Previous weddings hosted here, offering a serene and beautiful backdrop for a special day. Large house allows close family to stay on-site for the weekend.
Accessibility: Whole villa and garden available for exclusive use.
On-Site Amenities: Spacious rooms, expansive gardens, and lake views for stunning photo opportunities.
Vendor Considerations: Flexible space for outdoor ceremonies and gatherings.
Weather Backup: Indoor and garden spaces available for versatile event setups.
Nearby Attractions: Located in Christchurch with access to parks and natural reserves.
Price Range: From $1,501+ per night
Capacity: Sleeps up to 28 guests between two lodges (Main Lodge: 12 guests, East Lodge: 16 guests).
Best Features: Panoramic views over the estuary, from Farewell Spit to Kahurangi National Park. The property features a luxurious atmosphere, ideal for weddings or retreats.
Setting: Coastal town of Collingwood, surrounded by natural beauty with access to beaches, walking trails, and outdoor activities.
Event Friendliness: Zatori is a breathtaking wedding venue, and the owner is a registered marriage celebrant, offering a full wedding package. Ideal for small to large gatherings.
On-Site Amenities: Two separate lodges with ensuite bedrooms, wood-fired sauna, outdoor tub, large deck, communal spaces, BBQ, kayaks, paddle boards, and more.
Vendor Considerations: Option to hire local chefs for catering, ranging from simple meals to multi-course dining. Pre-arranged massages available on-site.
Weather Backup: Spacious indoor lounges and deck areas provide flexibility in all weather conditions.
Nearby Attractions: Walking distance to Collingwood, close to beaches, Milnthorpe Park, and outdoor activities like horseback riding, scenic flights, and fishing.
Price Range: From $2,031+ per night for 12 guests; additional $60 per person per night for up to 28 guests.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 7 guests with 3 bedrooms (2 downstairs, 1 upstairs in the lounge).
Best Features: Beautiful, private property set in park-like surroundings, ideal for intimate weddings or gatherings. Rated 9.6 on Booking.com.
Setting: Serene lakeside views with boardwalk access, perfect for enjoying sunsets and local wildlife. Plenty of space for a marquee or teepee setup.
Event Friendliness: Ideal for small weddings and gatherings with ample outdoor space.
Accessibility: Whole property available to guests, with fenced-off owner's area.
On-Site Amenities: Fully equipped in a modern style, ensuring comfort for all guests.
Weather Backup: Indoor spaces available if needed.
Nearby Attractions: Close proximity to the town center for convenience.
Price Range: From $407+ per night.
Ready to Plan Your Intimate Wedding?
Hey, I’m Shelby!
I’m a wedding photographer specializing in cinematic elopements and intimate weddings that capture the real, authentic you.
If you're dreaming of an Airbnb wedding in New Zealand, I offer fully customisable packages that can handle everything, from venue scouting and travel logistics to vendor recommendations and a seamless timeline—plus, I’ll be there as your photographer to capture every beautiful, unscripted moment.
Whether you’re after an intimate ceremony with just the two of you or a cozy celebration with close friends and family, I’ll help make it feel effortless and true to you. Let’s craft an unforgettable day where you can focus on each other, live in the moment, and celebrate your love in a setting that’s as beautiful as the memories you’ll make.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Reach out, and let’s make it happen!
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