Frequently Asked Questions

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Will other events be held on the same day as ours?

Enjoy exclusive use of our venue on your special day or event. We do not host multiple events simultaneously, ensuring you receive our undivided attention and a truly personalised experience. Our venue hire price reflects this exclusivity, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment without worrying about sharing the space with others.

Bookings

Why is our deposit non-refundable?

Our deposit is non-refundable because we are a private, exclusive venue that books events often 12 to 18 months in advance. When you secure your date with a deposit, it guarantees the venue for you and us. Due to our popularity and limited availability, last minute cancellations in peak season would make it extremely challenging to rebook the date. Therefore, we require a non-refundable deposit to ensure commitment and fairness to both parties.

Bookings

What is the Terms of Engagement Contract?

Our Terms of Engagement Contract is a comprehensive agreement that outlines the details of your venue hire. It clearly defines the terms and conditions of the hire including:

  • Event details
  • Payment
  • Client responsibilities
  • What is allowed and prohibited in the venue
  • Policies and procedures for cancellation and or postponement
  • Setup and pack down times

By signing this contract you will understand your obligations and responsibilities, ensuring a smooth and successful event.

Bookings

What is included in the venue hire amount?

The venue hire amount encompasses a comprehensive range of inclusions, which are carefully outlined in your personalised quote under the following categories:

  • Setup / Pack down
  • Ceremony
  • Courtyard Garden Bar & Pergola Area
  • Venue (modern barn)
  • Other

For your convenience, a detailed breakdown is also available on our website under the same headings, allowing you to easily reference and review the specifics of what’s included in your venue hire.

Bookings

You are ready to book your wedding or event. What is the next step?

Congratulations on your decision to book with us. To secure your wedding or event:

  • Email us to confirm your booking, including full names, addresses including email, booking date, contact details i.e. cell phone numbers
  • We will send an invoice for 50% deposit, due within 7 days (unless alternative arrangements have been made with our Events Manager)
  • Review, sign and return the Terms of Engagement Contract (scan and email back to us)
  • Six weeks prior to your wedding, pay the balance of the venue hire; settle the invoice for any hired options; 2 weeks from your wedding date, pay your beverage tab and toasting beverages and or other wine for your tables

Once the deposit has been received, your booking will be fully confirmed and we will start preparing for your special day.

Bookings

Do you have any accommodation on site?

While we do not have on-site accommodation, there are plenty of options nearby:

  • Maples on Harewood, a B & B, conveniently located across the road on Watson’s Road
  • A range of hotels and motels in the surrounding area, taking advantage of our proximity to the airport just a few minutes away

Our Events Manager can provide recommendations or assistance with booking arrangements, ensuring your guests have a comfortable and convenient place to stay.

Weddings/Events

Does the venue provide any games?

We have got fun covered at our venue! We provide:

  • Pétanque game and court (piste area) for your guests to enjoy
  • The option to bring in additional games for your guests and children
  • The possibility to arrange for a bouncy castle to be set up (perfect for kids or kids at heart!)

Feel free to get creative and customise your entertainment to suit the event’s style and atmosphere. Our Events Manager can help facilitate arrangements.

Weddings/Events

How does the venue (Modern Barn) accommodate the weather conditions?

We have you covered no matter the weather! Our venue is equipped with:

  • Air conditioning for warm days and evenings
  • Ceiling fans for gentle circulation
  • Heat pumps that can be set to cool or heat, depending on the temperature
  • Double glazing to retain heat and maintain a comfortable atmosphere

Our venue is designed to adapt to any weather conditions, ensuring your event remains comfortable and enjoyable for your guests. Simply let us know your preferences, and we will take care of the rest.

Weddings/Events

Do you have facilities for guests with babies and young children?

We welcome guests of all ages. For families with babies and young children, we offer:

  • A convenient change table located in our spacious bathroom area
  • While we do not have high chairs available due to storage limitations, you are more than welcome to bring in your own portable high chair

Please note: If your guest numbers are large and include more than three prams, we may have to limit the number of prams inside the venue. This is to ensure the Health and Safety of both our staff and guests. We appreciate your understanding in this matter and our Events Manager will work with you to find a suitable solution.

Weddings/Events

Are we able to operate a drone onsite?

Yes but please note that due to our proximity to the airport, you must comply with:

  • Aviation regulations
  • Keep the drone at a safe distance from our venues boundaries
  • Avoid flying over people or sensitive areas

Weddings/Events

Do you offer a bespoke styling service?

We offer a bespoke styling service to elevate your event tables with our décor options. Alternatively you are welcome to bring in your own stylist to tailor the look to your unique vision or style your own event. To ensure a seamless experience, please note that all your styling requirements must be fully discussed with our Events Manager.

Weddings/Events

Does the venue offer any décor for hire?

We offer flexible décor options to suit your unique vision and style. Our venue features:

  • Fixed décor elements that add to the ambiance
  • Optional items that can be used to enhance your wedding or event
  • Décor items available for hire to complement your theme
  • The freedom to bring in your own décor or hire items from other companies

Our Events Manager can work with you to create a personalised décor plan that reflects your taste and preferences.

Weddings/Events

Are we able to have smoke bombs or sparklers for our photoshoot?

Yes you are allowed to bring these in for your photoshoot, but please note that prior approval and co-ordination are required.  

To ensure safety and minimal disruptions please discuss the details with our Events Manager, including:

  • The type and quantity of smoke bombs/sparklers
  • The specific locations and timing for their use
  • Any necessary precautions or safety measures

Weddings/Events

Can all our wedding photos be taken on site and or off site?

On Site Photography

Our venue offers a diverse range of picturesque settings for your photo opportunities. Take advantage of our:

  • Vintage treasures and rustic elements, such as carts, wheels and wine barrels
  • Charming small woodland, lush lawn and mature gardens
  • Stunning array of fruit trees, providing a beautiful backdrop for your photos
  • Venue building backdrop

Off Site Photography

Should you venture off site for photos, your guests will be treated to a delightful experience in our:

  • Courtyard garden bar and pergola area, perfect for relaxation
  • Pétanque games
  • Refreshing beverages and catering options
  • Music to set the mood

Just let us know your plans and we will take care of the rest!

Weddings/Events

Is there somewhere onsite for the bride to change after the ceremony?

We understand the importance of a private space for the bride to change. Depending on your catering arrangements, we may be able to offer a dedicated area. Please discuss with our Events Manager in advance.

Weddings/Events

Can we use petals or confetti?

We welcome the use of confetti and petals to celebrate your special day. However, to ensure the preservation of our beautiful grounds, we have a few guidelines:

  • Only biodegradable confetti is permitted
  • Natural petals are allowed, but please ensure they are fully biodegradable
  • Artificial petals are not permitted, unless you commit to collecting them all the following morning during pack down

We appreciate your understanding in keeping our venue environmentally friendly and beautiful for future events.

Weddings/Events

Can we include our “Furbaby” in the ceremony and or photos?

We understand that your furry friends are part of the family! You are welcome to include them in the ceremony and photos. However, please note the following:

  • You will be responsible for cleaning up after your pet, including disposing of any animal waste
  • Due to Health and Safety regulations, pets are not permitted inside the venue. (We do of course welcome assistance dogs)

We are happy to accommodate your special family members, and our Events Manager can help you make arrangements for their inclusion.

Weddings/Events

Is there a wet weather alternative if having an outdoor wedding ceremony or event?

Don’t let the weather worry you! We have got a fantastic wet weather alternative for your outdoor wedding ceremony or event. Our newly extended pergola and courtyard garden bar area offers:

  • Drop down sides to protect against wind and rain
  • Heating for cooler afternoons and evenings
  • Ample space to accommodate both small and large guest numbers

This stunning area ensures your special day or event goes ahead seamlessly, regardless of the weather.

Weddings/Events

Is the venue and grounds easily accessed by wheelchair?

Our venue and grounds are easily accessible by wheelchair ensuring that all guests can enjoy our multi-functional spaces.  

Features include:

  • A single-level venue and grounds for effortless movement
  • All-weather pathway connecting the main car park to the venue
  • Double entry and exit doors
  • Designated wheelchair parking spaces located at the rear of the venue for convenience
  • A spacious, wheelchair-accessible bathroom facility
  • Should you know in advance one of your guests will require some assistance, please let us know so we can ensure appropriate parking is reserved 

We strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, and our Events Manager can assist with any specific needs or requirements.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

Can we leave our vehicle overnight and collect the following day?

For your safety and convenience, you are welcome to leave your vehicle in our car park overnight. This way you can enjoy yourself without worrying about driving. Your vehicle will be locked in our secure car park and can be uplifted the next morning between 10.00 am and 12 pm. After this time collection will be by arrangement.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

If we have over 150 guests, can your parking facility accommodate this?

Don’t worry about parking space! Our venue grounds can accommodate large numbers of guests with ease. We offer:

  • A spacious main parking area for vehicles
  • An additional overflow area for extra capacity

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

Are there any restrictions on what wedding vehicle we wish to arrive in?

Arrive in style! We welcome a wide range of wedding vehicles, from classic cars to luxurious limousines. We have ample space for limousines to turn around, ensuring a smooth and elegant arrival.  

We have hosted larger vehicles such as mack trucks and tractors. Please discuss the details with our Events Manager in advance. Please note that weather conditions may impact the suitability of certain vehicles, so be sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly.  

If you are looking to make a grand entrance from above, helicopters are permitted to land and take off safely on our grounds.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

If the weather at the setup or pack down is wet or windy is the venue easily accessible for décor and equipment?

Do not let the inclement weather worry you! Our venue is designed for easy access, even in wet or windy conditions. We feature:

  • A sturdy concrete pad reinforced with steel, to allow for heavy vehicles to reverse to our double doors
  • A covered area above our service entrance at the side of the venue, providing a dry and protected path for décor and further equipment

Our venue is built to accommodate a seamless setup, regardless of the weather. Our Events Manager will work with you to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

When is pack down completed?

Pack down is completed the following morning at 10.00 am as per the Terms of Engagement Contract if you are arranging décor. Please ensure your family and or team understand this. This allows for:

  • Separation of decorations not belonging to you
  • Sufficient time for checking, collating and packing items, especially for clients hiring décor from multiple companies
  • Accommodation of instances where setup and pack down teams differ

Important timelines to keep in mind:

  • Our bar licence and music conclude at 11.00 pm
  • All guests must be vacated from the venue by 11.30 pm
  • Our main gate will be locked at 12 pm as per our resource consent requirements

If your event finishes earlier or if another event is scheduled for the following day, pack down will be discussed with you further by our Events Manager. We appreciate your understanding and co-operation in adhering to these pack down procedures.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

When is the pack in completed and how much time do we get to set up our décor?

For weddings:  Enjoy a stress free setup experience the afternoon prior to your special day.  Our venue hire price includes 4 hours comprising:

  • 3 hours for décor setup
  • 1 hour for ceremony rehearsal

Please ensure you have sufficient helpers for larger setups.  

Hire companies can drop off décor just prior to your setup time. If you require additional setup time, it will be charged out at $100 per hour plus GST.   Our Events Manager is always present to oversee your pack in to ensure a smooth transition.  As we are a small team vendors are not able to access the venue on the morning of a wedding as this can impact our final cleaning and preparations for your day.  If this may be an issue please discuss this with our Events Manager.  

For other events, setup will occur on the day of the event, with a maximum of 3 hours allowed.

Access/Pack In/Pack Out

Is loud music allowed in the grounds and venue and what time can we play music or have a band/DJ until?

  • Background music is welcome in the courtyard garden bar and pergola area, as well as during ceremonies
  • However, loud music and dancing are only permitted within our acoustically designed, soundproofed venue
  • Our venue is a favourite among bands and DJs due to its exceptional sound quality and noise containment
  • Please note that all music services must conclude by 11 pm as per our resource consent requirements

Music

What time does your beverage licence conclude?

11 pm. This allows us to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and to maintain a harmonious relationship with our neighbours.

Beverages

What beverages and packages do you offer?

Our beverage selection menu is included in our quote. We offer a range of beverage options  ie a prepaid tab, (to your budget) invoice on consumption, prepaid beverages for toasts or dinner, cash/Eftpos bar or combination.

Beverages

Do you allow BYO alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages?

We do not offer BYO (bring your own) beverages, as we have an on licence. Providing all beverages is our business. We are however, happy to tailor our menu to suit your specific needs and preferences. We can add 3-4 personalised beverages to our selection, ensuring your event is truly special. Let us help you create a customised beverage menu that complements your celebration.

Beverages

Can our vendors drop by at any time?

To ensure the security and exclusivity of our venue, vendors cannot drop by unannounced. Instead, please arrange an appointment with our Events Manager in advance. This allows us to:

  • Co-ordinate access through the Omarino gate (only open for scheduled events, meetings, viewings and maintenance)
  • Ensure a dedicated time for vendors to visit and prepare for your event

Please note: if a wedding, vendors are not permitted onsite before 1 pm on the day. As we are a small team this ensures we will be ready for your arrival and for a smooth and organised experience. If this may be an issue please speak with our Events Manager directly. Alternatively vendors can set up or drop off the afternoon before at the setup time.

Catering

Can you recommend other vendors for our wedding or event?

We would be delighted to recommend exceptional local vendors who have delivered outstanding services to our venue previously. Our venue network includes, talented bands and DJs, experienced celebrants, skilled photographers, caterers, cake makers etc.

Feel free to choose any vendor you prefer, and we will ensure a smooth collaboration.

Catering

Is there a kitchen facility available on site?

We have a small service area inside and an outside covered area with basic amenities. It is not suitable for full food preparation or cooking. We recommend that your caterer bring in a heating facility, i.e. hotbox, portable oven or chaffing dishes.  

We do offer:

  • Limited fridge and freezer space for storage of perishable items
  • Some oblong tables for food placement and display
  • Small inside service area
  • Covered outside work space

Catering

Can we organise our own caterers?

We offer flexibility in catering to suit your needs. You are welcome to organise your own caterers or choose from our catering partners. We will work with you to determine the best catering option based on:

  • Your event style - buffet, dinner party, food truck, etc
  • Budget
  • Religious and or dietary requirements
  • Service style - serviced, non-serviced

If your chosen caterer is new to our venue, we recommend scheduling a meeting with our Events Manager to:  

  • Familiarise themselves with the venue and work spaces
  • Discuss logistics and requirements for a seamless event

If your catering is non-serviced, our quote does not cover wait staff, table clearance and food removal. We would be happy to offer a quote for this service if required.

Please note: Caterers are not permitted to bring in any beverages for guests. This includes supplying any bottled water. We provide all guest tables with carafes of water and water dispensers in our pergola and courtyard garden bar area.  

Let us know your preferences, and we will help you find the perfect catering solution for your special day.

Catering

What happens at a viewing?

When you book a viewing, you will meet with our experienced Events Manager, who will guide you through our stunning outdoor areas and venue. During the viewing, we will:

  • Walk you through the personalised quote we have prepared
  • Provide a list of recommended vendors to help with your planning
  • Provide you our Terms of Engagement Contract
  • Answer any questions you may have

This is a great opportunity to get a sense of our venue, ask questions and ensure we are the perfect fit for your special day.

Viewing

Can we view the venue and grounds?

To ensure we are available on your desired date, please contact us in advance. We will also need some brief details:

  • Estimated guest numbers
  • If you are looking for us to host your entire day or a specific portion
  • Your event’s beverage preference (alcoholic, non-alcoholic or both as we take staffing for our bar into consideration)

This information allows us to tailor a personalised quote, ensuring our offerings align with your vision. If everything aligns, we would be delighted to schedule a private viewing, showcasing our venue’s potential for your special day.

Viewing

What is the guest capacity of the venue? (Modern Barn)

Our venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for a seated dinner and 160 guests with dance floor. Please note that bringing in large items such as backdrops, photobooths, extra tables, large decorations, a larger dance floor or prams may reduce overall capacity. This will need to be discussed further with our Events Manager.

Capacity