FOOD TRUCKS
Beaches, vineyards and beautiful food. There’s good reason to get hitched here.
Why we’ve fallen for them and why you will too
W hether you’re a local wanting to know the hotspots of the region, or perhaps considering a destination celebration, there’s so many reasons why Hawke’s Bay is hailed as one of the best spots in Aotearoa to say ‘I do’. We asked some local industry experts to share their personal insights:
THE BEST THING ABOUT THE BAY
“The climate!”, says photographer Eva Bradley. “Warm, dry conditions throughout the year have created perfect conditions for outstanding bespoke food and wine production. Plus – it’s great to know the chances of avoiding rain on your wedding day are in your favour.”
HEAVENLY HOT SPOTS
Local floral stylist Laura Jeffares tells us that one of Hawke’s Bay’s beaches would be a favourite spot for her. “Think clear-roof marquee, beautifully-styled…” She also makes a great point, expressing that any venue can be styled to the couple’s aesthetic, especially if you carefully select your vendors and choose great food. “Local catering and award-winning wines – what a dream. That really makes my heart sing!”
“On a warm summer evening when Te Awa Winery throws open its doors and a cool breeze blows onto the dance floor, it just feels good to be alive,” says Eva. “Set right in the heart of wine country, it’s rural New Zealand rustic at its absolute best. I also love The Mission because
as New Zealand’s oldest winery, there is so much history there and it’s special to become part of that story.”
EPIC PHOTO LOCATIONS
“The great thing about so many venues here is that couples often choose to stay on- site for photography,” explains Eva, “which takes away the stress and time delays caused by travel logistics. Having said that, if you’re anywhere near Te Mata Peak with its epic views down the Tukituki river valley all the way to that sparkling blue coastline, you know I’m going to give you a nudge and a wink.” Laura is a coastal fan, and says that she would choose Ocean Beach or Waimamara. “Alternatively, there are stunning councilkept gardens all within a 20-minute drive.”
LOCAL BLOOMS
Hawke’s Bay is rich in local flower farmers with the luxuries of peony farms, side of the road- carts, dahlia specialists and passionate growers of all things garden. “Myself and a few of the other Hawke’s Bay florists are huge supporters of local growers”, explains Alice Sip of Kristopher & Co Planning, Design & Florals. “We aim to incorporate their goodies in each wedding. There’s something special about using product that you’ve either picked yourself, or someone down the road has.” Brides adore this sentiment, too. Not only are the blooms always fresh, they are usually organic and unique to the grower.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
“Hawke’s Bay sunrise and sunsets are my preferred shooting time,” explains photographer Lisa Fisher. “I always ask my couples if we can take 10 minutes away from the reception for photos during these ‘golden’ times, because it adds a gorgeous set to the wedding gallery. It also gives them a chance to take a few minutes to themselves.”