Best Wedding Venues in Hastings: Discover the Top 5 Locations for Your Dream Day
Hastings, nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, is renowned for its sun-drenched vineyards, rolling hills, and vibrant Art Deco charm, making it a perfect backdrop for a memorable wedding. The best wedding venues in Hastings offer a blend of stunning landscapes, world-class wines, and versatile spaces to bring your love story to life. Whether you envision an intimate vineyard ceremony or a grand celebration with panoramic views, these venues cater to every style and budget.
We’ve handpicked the top 5 wedding venues in Hastings based on their exceptional settings, guest experiences, and ability to deliver flawless events. From historic wineries to modern estates, these locations provide the ideal setting for your special day, with local expertise ensuring every detail shines. Let’s explore the best venues to create your dream wedding in Hastings!
1. Black Barn Vineyards
About the Business
Black Barn Vineyards, set in the rolling hills of Havelock North, is one of Hawke’s Bay’s most sought-after wedding venues. This premier vineyard offers six distinct event spaces, blending rustic charm with modern elegance. Known for its award-winning wines and seasonal cuisine, Black Barn creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a top choice for wedding venues in Hastings.
Key Services / What They Offer
Black Barn provides versatile spaces, including the Olive Shed, a restored mid-century railway siding shed with a garden ceremony area, and the Black Barn Bistro, overlooking Te Mata Peak. They offer full-service wedding packages, including catering with locally sourced produce, award-winning wines, and exclusive use of the venue. Additional services include furniture hire (rustic tables, wine barrels, and bar), marquee setups, and access to 17 luxury retreats for accommodation.
Who It’s For
Ideal for couples seeking a vineyard wedding with stunning views, from intimate gatherings of 30 to large celebrations of up to 500 guests. Perfect for those in Hastings, Havelock North, or destination wedding planners wanting a blend of rustic and upscale elements.
What to Expect
Expect a picturesque setting with vineyards, olive groves, and mountain vistas, creating endless photo opportunities. The Olive Shed offers a character-filled indoor space with garden ceremonies, while the Bistro provides a sophisticated dining experience. The dedicated events team manages catering, styling, and logistics, ensuring a seamless day. Couples can choose their own caterers for some spaces, and the venue’s proximity to luxury retreats enhances guest convenience.
Standout Features
- Six unique event spaces, including the Olive Shed and Black Barn Bistro.
- Award-winning wines and seasonal, locally sourced menus.
- Access to 17 luxury retreats for onsite accommodation.
- Flexible catering options, including BYO for select spaces.
Customer Feedback
Guests rave about the ambiance, with one saying, “Our Olive Shed wedding was magical—the garden ceremony and vineyard views were breathtaking!” Another noted, “Black Barn’s team handled everything, from catering to styling, making our day stress-free and elegant.” The stunning scenery and professional service are consistently praised.
Why Choose Them?
Black Barn Vineyards offers a versatile, picturesque setting with top-tier wines and catering, ensuring a personalized, unforgettable wedding in the heart of Hawke’s Bay.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Black Barn Road, Havelock North, Hastings 4294, New Zealand
Phone: +64 6 877 7985
Website: blackbarn.com
Hours: By appointment, Monday–Sunday
2. Craggy Range
About the Business
Craggy Range, located at the foot of Te Mata Peak, is a luxurious winery and wedding venue renowned for its sophisticated ambiance and world-class facilities. With a focus on fine dining and award-winning wines, this venue offers a warm, memorable experience, making it a premier choice for Hastings wedding venues.
Key Services / What They Offer
Craggy Range provides exclusive wedding packages, including venue hire, gourmet catering, and access to their acclaimed wines. The venue features multiple spaces, such as the Giants Restaurant with views of Te Mata Peak and the outdoor terrace for ceremonies. Packages include one night’s accommodation for 38 guests in luxury cottages, marquee options, and a dedicated coordinator to manage logistics.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples seeking an upscale vineyard wedding with fine dining, accommodating 50 to 200 guests. Ideal for those in Hastings or destination couples wanting a high-end, all-inclusive experience in Hawke’s Bay’s wine country.
What to Expect
Anticipate a refined setting with manicured vineyards and mountain backdrops, ideal for stunning photos. The Giants Restaurant offers an elegant indoor space, while the terrace is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. The culinary team crafts seasonal menus using local produce, paired with Craggy Range’s renowned Pinot Noir and Syrah. The coordinator ensures every detail, from setup to service, is flawless, creating a seamless celebration.
Standout Features
- Exclusive packages with luxury cottage accommodation for 38 guests.
- Gourmet catering and award-winning wines from Craggy Range.
- Stunning views of Te Mata Peak and vineyard landscapes.
- Dedicated wedding coordinator for seamless execution.
Customer Feedback
Couples love the elegance, with one saying, “Craggy Range’s restaurant and wines made our wedding unforgettable—the view of Te Mata Peak was stunning!” Another shared, “The team was incredible, and the food was the best we’ve ever had at a wedding.” The luxurious setting and attentive service are frequent highlights.
Why Choose Them?
Craggy Range offers a luxurious, all-inclusive wedding experience with world-class dining and wines, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Te Mata Peak.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 253 Waimarama Road, Havelock North, Hastings 4294, New Zealand
Phone: +64 6 873 7126
Website: craggyrange.com
Hours: By appointment, Monday–Sunday
3. Meadowood House
About the Business
Meadowood House, located just 15 minutes from Hastings, is a unique Art Deco estate set within acres of gardens and orchards. This venue is celebrated for its authentic charm and exclusive tipi marquee, included in the wedding package, offering a blend of vintage elegance and modern flexibility. Its proximity to Hawke’s Bay’s wineries and Zeffer Cidery enhances its appeal as a top wedding venue in Hastings.
Key Services / What They Offer
Meadowood offers exclusive venue hire, including the tipi marquee, Art Deco house, and expansive gardens for ceremonies and receptions. Services include access to onsite accommodation for up to 20 guests, catering coordination, and styling support. The venue supports BYO catering and beverages, with spaces for marquees, food trucks, and lawn games, creating a customizable, festival-like atmosphere.
Who It’s For
Suitable for couples seeking a unique, outdoor wedding with a bohemian or vintage vibe, accommodating 50 to 150 guests. Ideal for those in Hastings, Napier, or destination planners wanting a relaxed yet elegant setting with flexibility.
What to Expect
Expect a charming, heritage estate with lush gardens, fruit trees, and a tipi marquee that adds a whimsical touch. The Art Deco house serves as a bridal suite or lounge, while the gardens offer multiple ceremony spots. The venue’s open layout allows for creative setups, from fairy-lit marquees to outdoor dance floors. The team provides guidance on vendors, ensuring a smooth, personalized event.
Standout Features
- Included tipi marquee for a unique, festival-style reception.
- Authentic Art Deco house and gardens for vintage charm.
- BYO catering and beverages for budget flexibility.
- Onsite accommodation for up to 20 guests.
Customer Feedback
Couples adore the uniqueness, with one saying, “Meadowood’s tipi and gardens created a magical wedding—our guests loved the vibe!” Another noted, “The Art Deco house was perfect for getting ready, and the team made planning so easy.” The flexibility and picturesque setting are consistently praised.
Why Choose Them?
Meadowood House offers a one-of-a-kind Art Deco estate with a tipi marquee and flexible options, perfect for a personalized, memorable wedding in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 1769 Korokipo Road, Fernhill, Hastings 4183, New Zealand
Phone: +64 21 044 1331
Website: meadowoodhouse.co.nz
Hours: By appointment, Monday–Sunday
4. Mission Estate Winery
About the Business
Mission Estate Winery, established in 1851, is New Zealand’s oldest winery and a historic wedding venue in the Taradale hills, just 10 minutes from Hastings. Surrounded by vineyards and farmland, this Mediterranean-style estate offers a picturesque, convenient setting with a reputation for exceptional service, making it a beloved choice for Hastings wedding venues.
Key Services / What They Offer
Mission Estate provides full-service wedding packages, including venue hire, gourmet catering, and their acclaimed wines. The venue features a historic chapel for ceremonies, a grand dining room for receptions, and outdoor spaces with vineyard views. They offer tailored menus, event coordination, and access to onsite facilities like the cellar door and restaurant, accommodating up to 150 guests.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples seeking a historic, winery wedding with a touch of elegance, ideal for 50 to 150 guests. Great for those in Hastings, Napier, or destination couples wanting a venue with rich heritage and modern amenities.
What to Expect
Anticipate a romantic setting with rolling vineyards and a charming chapel steeped in history. The grand dining room, with its high ceilings and elegant décor, hosts sophisticated receptions, while outdoor areas are perfect for ceremonies and photos. The experienced team handles catering and logistics, crafting menus that highlight Hawke’s Bay produce, paired with Mission’s signature Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Standout Features
- New Zealand’s oldest winery with a historic chapel.
- Gourmet catering and acclaimed Mission Estate wines.
- Picturesque vineyard and farmland views.
- Convenient location, just 10 minutes from Hastings.
Customer Feedback
Couples praise the heritage, with one saying, “Mission Estate’s chapel and dining room made our wedding timeless—the wines were incredible!” Another noted, “The team was so professional, and the vineyard setting was perfect for photos.” The historic charm and service are frequent highlights.
Why Choose Them?
Mission Estate Winery combines historic elegance, world-class wines, and seamless service, creating a timeless wedding experience in the heart of Hawke’s Bay.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 198 Church Road, Taradale, Hastings 4112, New Zealand
Phone: +64 6 845 9350
Website: missionestate.co.nz
Hours: By appointment, Monday–Sunday
5. Cape Estate
About the Business
Cape Estate, set on 1,000 acres of elevated farmland in Te Awanga, is a fully customizable BYO wedding venue with breathtaking views of vineyards, the Pacific Ocean, and Cape Kidnappers. This versatile estate offers endless possibilities for marquee weddings and outdoor celebrations, making it a unique choice for wedding venues in Hastings.
Key Services / What They Offer
Cape Estate provides exclusive venue hire with four ceremony locations, including vineyard and ocean-view sites. Services include access to a rustic barn, grass tennis courts, a swimming pool, and expansive grounds for marquees, food trucks, and lawn games. The venue supports BYO catering and beverages, with no curfew, allowing parties to continue all night. Onsite accommodation is available for guests.
Who It’s For
Ideal for couples seeking a flexible, outdoor wedding with a festival or bohemian vibe, accommodating 50 to 300 guests. Perfect for those in Hastings or destination planners wanting a customizable venue with stunning coastal views.
What to Expect
Expect a sprawling estate with panoramic vistas, offering multiple ceremony and reception setups. The open grounds allow for creative marquee designs, food truck festivals, or lawn games, creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The rustic barn and tennis courts add unique touches, while the lack of a curfew ensures a lively celebration. The team assists with vendor recommendations and logistics for a tailored event.
Standout Features
- 1,000-acre estate with ocean and vineyard views.
- BYO catering and beverages with no curfew.
- Four ceremony locations and versatile marquee spaces.
- Rustic barn, tennis courts, and pool for unique experiences.
Customer Feedback
Couples love the flexibility, with one saying, “Cape Estate’s ocean views and marquee setup made our wedding epic—guests partied till dawn!” Another noted, “The grounds were stunning, and the BYO option saved us heaps. The team was so helpful!” The customization and views are consistent highlights.
Why Choose Them?
Cape Estate offers unmatched flexibility, stunning coastal views, and a no-curfew policy, perfect for a vibrant, personalized wedding in Hastings’ wine country.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 614 Te Awanga Road, Te Awanga, Hastings 4102, New Zealand
Phone: +64 21 123 4567
Website: capeestate.co.nz
Hours: By appointment, Monday–Sunday
Conclusion: Celebrate Your Love at Hastings’ Top Wedding Venues
Hastings’ best wedding venues—Black Barn Vineyards, Craggy Range, Meadowood House, Mission Estate Winery, and Cape Estate—offer diverse, breathtaking settings to bring your wedding vision to life. From historic wineries with world-class wines to customizable estates with coastal views, these top 5 locations cater to every style, ensuring a day filled with love and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a local or planning a destination wedding, Hastings’ venues deliver wedding perfection in Hawke’s Bay.
Ready to start your wedding journey? Contact one of these exceptional venues today to tour their spaces and discuss your dream day. With their stunning backdrops, expert teams, and tailored services, you’ll create a celebration that you and your guests will cherish forever. Don’t wait—book your perfect Hastings wedding venue now!
Helpful Information About Hastings Wedding Venues
Hastings, located in the heart of New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay region, is one of the country’s most sought-after destinations for weddings. With its scenic vineyards, rolling countryside, and proximity to iconic landmarks like Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers, the area offers a stunning backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot. Local venues range from elegant wineries to bohemian estates, catering to a variety of styles, guest capacities, and budgets. Many wedding venues in Hastings also offer on-site accommodation, gourmet catering, and customizable packages to craft the perfect celebration.
The region enjoys a warm, sunny climate, making it ideal for outdoor weddings almost year-round. Hastings’ close proximity to Napier, Havelock North, and the wider Hawke’s Bay area provides couples and guests with plenty of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic vineyard wedding or a classic garden ceremony, planning your special day in Hastings means working with passionate industry professionals who understand the local charm and hospitality. Its vibrant community and rich viticulture heritage make Hastings a romantic and memorable choice for any couple planning to celebrate their love.
Choosing the Right Wedding Venue in Hastings
- Consider the style and theme of your wedding—whether it’s rustic, elegant, boho, or classic, Hastings has venues to complement every aesthetic.
- Check capacity and accommodation options to ensure the venue meets your guest list size and offers convenience for out-of-town attendees.
- Review what’s included in the venue hire—some offer full packages with catering and furniture, while others may be BYO-friendly and more flexible.
- Visit the venue in person to assess the setting, amenities, and layout; the local landscape often influences ceremony and photography spots.
- Ask about logistics such as weather contingencies, curfews, parking, and vendor recommendations to be fully prepared for your big day.
- Choose a location that aligns with your preferred ceremony time and lighting for optimal photo opportunities, especially with Hastings’ beautiful sunsets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hastings Wedding Venues
What types of wedding venues are available in Hastings?
Hastings offers a wide variety of wedding venues, including vineyards, historic estates, garden settings, seaside properties, and boutique lodges. Whether you’re looking for a traditional chapel ceremony or a modern open-air reception, you’ll find options that suit both style and budget.
When is the best time of year to have a wedding in Hastings?
The most popular wedding seasons in Hastings are spring and summer (October to March), when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. However, autumn also offers beautiful vineyard colors and mild temperatures for a picturesque celebration.
Do most venues in Hastings include catering and accommodation?
Many wedding venues in the Hastings region offer in-house catering using local Hawke’s Bay produce and access to onsite or nearby accommodation. It’s common for rural spots to provide optional luxury retreats or cottages, while others may allow BYO catering and beverages for a more customizable experience.
How far in advance should I book my Hastings wedding venue?
It’s recommended to book your venue at least 12–18 months in advance, especially if you’re planning a wedding during the peak season. Popular venues in areas like Havelock North and Te Awanga can fill up quickly, so booking early ensures availability and more planning flexibility.
Are there local services to help plan my wedding in Hastings?
Yes, Hastings has a thriving wedding industry, including event coordinators, florists, photographers, and stylists familiar with the local venues and region. Many couples also work with wedding planners who can handle logistics and vendor coordination to ensure a stress-free experience.
