Other than choosing your photographer, finding the perfect venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day. Wanaka is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking wedding destinations – and for good reason. With towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and that golden Central Otago light, it’s an absolute dream to photograph.
If you’re planning a Wanaka wedding or elopement, this guide shares a few of my favourite wedding venues in Wanaka. And yes — I say this with confidence, having recently been married in Wanaka myself.
1). Glendhu Station Wedding Venue, Wanaka
Glendhu Station is an iconic Wanaka wedding venues, offering a perfect blend of rugged high-country charm and refined elegance. This historic station features expansive landscapes, a beautiful woolshed, and a breathtaking ceremony location with a spectacular view of Lake Wanaka.
From a wedding photography perspective, Glendhu Station is an absolute dream. The scale of the landscape allows for dramatic, cinematic portraits, while the intimate spaces around the woolshed are ideal for capturing candid moments throughout the day. One of the standout features of this venue is the way the day naturally flows for guests – from the epic lake view ceremony, guests then move along a meandering path to canapés and lawn games, through to dinner in the classic wooden woolshed, and finally onto the dance floor with its built-in stage.
Every part of Glendhu Station feels thoughtfully connected, creating a relaxed, immersive experience that photographs beautifully from start to finish.
Perfect for: Couples wanting a classic South Island wedding with epic scenery and flexible styling options. This dreamy venue can hold up to 130 guests.
2). Rippon Hall Wedding Venue, Wanaka
Perched above Lake Wanaka on the world-famous Rippon Vineyard, Rippon Hall is one of the most sought-after Wanaka wedding venues – and for good reason. With vineyard rows in the foreground and lake and mountain views stretching into the distance, this venue offers a truly timeless setting.
Rippon is ideal for couples drawn to elegant, editorial-style weddings. As a Wanaka wedding photographer, this is a very special venue for sunset portraits and relaxed, documentary-style coverage.
Perfect for: Romantic vineyard weddings with a luxury feel and unforgettable views.
3). The Lookout Lodge Wedding Venue, Wanaka
The Lookout Lodge is a boutique Wanaka wedding venue. It offers both accommodation and event spaces in one beautifully designed location. It provides a private setting with stunning alpine views and the convenience of hosting your entire wedding weekend in one place.
Because everything happens on site, weddings at The Lookout Lodge tend to feel relaxed and unhurried – which is ideal for documentary-style photography. With both indoor and outdoor options, it’s also a great choice for couples wanting peace of mind with weather flexibility.
Perfect for: Couples wanting an all-in-one wedding venue with a seamless, stress-free flow, with beautiful views.