Ultimate Guide to Beach Weddings in NZ
Can I Get Married at a Beach in New Zealand?
The answer is an absolute yes!
Dreaming of exchanging vows with your toes in the sand, the salty breeze in your hair, and the sound of waves crashing nearby? If a beach wedding in New Zealand is calling your name, you're in for a treat!
But with the wild, unpredictable nature of our coastlines, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before making it official on the shore.
Here’s your ultimate guide to planning the perfect beach wedding in New Zealand.
Contents
Why Choose a Beach Wedding in New Zealand?
New Zealand is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. From rugged, windswept coastlines to more private golden-sand coves, there's a beach for every type of couple. A beach wedding offers a more relaxed, intimate setting — whether you’re planning to elope or host a small group of loved ones, the vibe is usually carefree and personal.
And the best part? New Zealand’s beaches are beautiful year-round, giving you flexibility on timing and style. Want to go barefoot at sunset? Or get married under a full moon? The beach can be the perfect setting for that dream.
How to Choose the Right Beach for Your Beach Wedding
New Zealand is blessed with breathtaking beaches, from the soft white sands of the East Coast to the rugged and wild stretches of the West Coast. So how do you choose?
Spend some time scouting out your dream location. The easiest way to start is online! Pull up Google Maps or Google Earth and have a look at which coastlines you’re intrigued by. Maybe brainstorm by listing out all of the favourite beaches you’ve been to. Once you’ve got a shortlist, then you’ll want to scout them out in person.
While you’re out there, don’t just think about the view — think about the wind. Even on calm days, the breeze can pick up along the shore, so try to find a spot that has some natural shelter.
Another key factor? Accessibility. Some beaches are secluded, which might be fun for a road trip but tricky for guests to navigate. Keep in mind the distance from parking to the ceremony site, and if you’re choosing a remote spot, make sure everyone can easily find their way there.
Legal Considerations for a Beach Wedding in New Zealand
Let’s tackle the paperwork first!
Do you need a permit? In many cases, yes. Some beaches, especially popular ones or those within national parks, require a permit from the local council. This gives you priority use of the area, but it doesn’t mean exclusive access. Other beachgoers might still be nearby, but the council will ensure there’s no maintenance or big disruptions during your ceremony. Be sure to apply for your permit well in advance, as processing can take up to eight weeks.
Marriage licenses are essential. Just like any wedding in New Zealand, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license before the big day. This can be done online, and you'll need a registered celebrant to officiate.
Two witnesses: New Zealand law requires two witnesses to be present at your ceremony to sign the marriage documents. So, even if you're planning an elopement, you’ll need to have at least two people there to make it official.
Best Beaches in New Zealand for Weddings
The beauty of getting married in New Zealand is the sheer diversity of beach locations. Here are a few of my favorites:
Bay of Islands (North Island): Perfect for couples who want a subtropical, island vibe. Think crystal-clear waters and secluded bays.
Coromandel Peninsula (North Island): Known for its white-sand beaches and iconic spots like Cathedral Cove, this is a must-see for beach lovers.
Auckland’s West Coast Beaches (North Island): For a more dramatic, rugged backdrop, Piha and Muriwai beaches offer stunning views and wild landscapes.
Abel Tasman National Park (South Island): Famous for its golden beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a hiker’s dream too, so you can incorporate some adventure into your wedding day.
Kaikoura (South Island): If you’re into marine life, Kaikoura is perfect. You might even spot a dolphin or two on your wedding day!
S+J chose Piha for their celebrations — talk about wild and rugged!
Best Times to Have a Beach Wedding
Timing is everything when it comes to a beach wedding. Before you lock in the details, consider visiting your chosen location at the same time of day that you plan to hold your ceremony.
Tides: Check tide schedules! (This is my go-to site for tide charts.) Some beaches shrink significantly during high tide, which could leave you with less space than expected. On the other hand, low tide might expose more beach, but you could also be dealing with washed-up debris. A quick tidy-up before your ceremony can take care of that, but it's something to be aware of.
Sun position: Think about where the sun will be during your ceremony. You don't want your guests squinting into the sun or losing light too early. Late afternoon is usually a sweet spot for soft, flattering lighting, which is usually my advice as a wedding photographer. You could think about timing your ceremony or photos for either sunrise or sunset to utilise the beauty of golden hour.
Day of the week: If you're hoping for a quiet, intimate ceremony, consider a weekday. Popular beaches can get crowded on weekends, especially during summer.
I mean... you really can't beat a sunset.
Styling Your Beach Wedding
One of the perks of a beach wedding is that nature provides most of the decor for you! But if you want to add a little something extra, here are a few ideas:
Natural Decor: Driftwood, seashells, and beach grasses make for beautiful, simple accents. You don’t need much to elevate the space when the beach is your backdrop.
Eco-Friendly Options: Consider using biodegradable confetti, or skip the paper altogether and go for flowers or petals instead.
Themes: Whether you’re into boho, nautical, or minimalist vibes, a beach wedding can be easily styled to fit your personality.
Beach Wedding Logistics
Beach weddings come with their own set of logistics, especially when it comes to sound and setup.
Sound: The ocean can be loud, and the wind can carry away voices. If you’re having a ceremony with guests, consider using a microphone or sound system. And if you’re hiring musicians, make sure they’re equipped to play outdoors in potentially windy conditions.
Seating: You don’t have to go all-out with chairs — blankets and pillows create a cozy, intimate feel for smaller gatherings. But if you want more structure, make sure any seating is sturdy enough for sandy terrain.
Dress for the elements: Keep your attire relaxed and practical. Flowy, lightweight fabrics work best for the beach, and footwear should be comfortable for walking on sand. For brides, long veils can get caught in the wind, so consider a simple flower crown or hairpiece instead.
Planning for Comfort and Safety
Let’s talk about your guests’ comfort. Beaches can be hot, windy, and sometimes a little tricky to navigate.
Sun Protection: Offer sunscreen and parasols, or set up shaded areas to keep guests comfortable. Consider creating a “chill zone” with cool drinks and light snacks.
Wind and Sand: Be mindful of how wind and sand can impact your day. Hair blowing in the wind might look romantic in photos, but it can also be a bit frustrating for your guests. And sandy feet… well, you’re on the beach, so embrace it!
Accessibility: Some beaches are remote or hard to access, so think about how your guests will get there. If you have elderly family members or guests with mobility needs, make sure the location is easily accessible.
Hiring Vendors for a Beach Wedding
When choosing vendors, look for those experienced with outdoor or beach weddings. They’ll know how to handle the unique challenges a beach setting presents:
Photographers: Lighting can be tricky with the reflection of the sand and water. An experienced wedding photographer that has photographed at many beaches will know how to use that to their advantage.
Caterers: If you’re planning a picnic-style or casual buffet, consider beach-friendly options like food trucks or simple, fresh catering that matches the laid-back vibe.
Entertainment: Acoustic sets, live music, or even just a good playlist can create the perfect beach atmosphere.
Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility
Beaches are delicate ecosystems, so it’s important to leave no trace.
Eco-Conscious Choices: Use eco-friendly decor, avoid plastic, and make sure to clean up all trash after your event. Recruit a few trusted friends or hire help to pack up chairs, decor, and rubbish. Leave the beach as pristine as you found it.
Respect Wildlife: If you’re on a beach that’s home to wildlife — especially in places like Abel Tasman — keep a respectful distance and minimise any impact.
Pros and Cons of a Beach Wedding
Pros
Natural Scenery: The beauty of a beach setting speaks for itself and requires minimal decor.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Beach weddings tend to have a laid-back, intimate vibe, perfect for couples looking for a less formal celebration.
Unique Photo Opportunities: The natural lighting and scenic environment can result in breathtaking, cinematic wedding photos.
Versatile for Any Size: Whether you’re planning an elopement or a small gathering, beaches offer flexibility in accommodating your vision.
Cons
Unpredictable Weather: New Zealand weather can be a little wild, and the beach is no exception. It can be windy, with sudden rain or chilly temperatures, even in summer.
Logistical Challenges: Sound can get lost in the wind, and managing seating on sand isn’t always easy — especially with tides sneaking up on you.
Accessibility: Not all beaches are easy to access, especially for elderly guests or those with mobility challenges.
Permits and Regulations: Depending on where you’re getting married, you might need a permit, especially on public beaches, so it’s important to check in with the local council.
Alternatives to a Beach Ceremony
Not sure if you want to deal with the logistics of a full beach wedding? Consider some alternatives:
Beachfront Venues: Many venues offer stunning ocean views without the sand. This can be a great option if you want the beauty of the beach without the potential chaos.
Elopements: For couples looking for a more intimate experience, a beach elopement is a simple, beautiful option that strips away all the extras and focuses on you two.
Consider a Park Wedding!
If a beach wedding sounds beautiful but you’re craving something a little different, why not consider a park wedding? New Zealand is home to some incredible parks that offer lush greenery, serene lakes, and beautiful backdrops. It’s a perfect option for couples who want a natural outdoor setting with more shelter and versatility than a beach.
For more inspiration, check out my Ultimate Park Wedding Guide to see if this could be the perfect fit for your special day!
Ready to Start Planning Your Beach Wedding?
Planning a beach wedding can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s always helpful to have someone by your side who knows the ins and outs. If you’re ready to start planning or need some guidance on making your beach wedding dreams come true, I’d love to chat! You can leave the hard stuff like narrowing down a list of beach spots or crafting a timeline for your beach wedding to me.
Let’s create a day that feels authentically you.
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