Everything you need to know about planning a Kauri Bay Boomrock Wedding
As a wedding photographer, I've had the chance to work at many venues across New Zealand. Kauri Bay Boomrock in Clevedon, Auckland, is one that often comes to mind when couples ask for recommendations. Here's my honest take on this venue, along with some key information for those considering it for their big day.
Q&A for Couples Considering Kauri Bay Boomrock
When is the best time to plan a wedding at Kauri Bay Boomrock?
Kauri Bay Boomrock is a year-round venue, but their pricing reflects seasonal demand. Summer (November to April) is the most popular and expensive time. If you're looking for a better deal, consider the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring, or winter for the most affordable rates. Each season offers a different atmosphere, from sun-drenched summer days to cozy winter evenings.
How much will it cost?
Costs vary significantly depending on the season and day of the week. In summer 2024/2025, Friday and Saturday venue hire is $9,950, while in winter it's $4,950. There's also a minimum spend requirement in summer. Remember, this is just the venue hire - you'll need to factor in catering, beverages, and other services. For a rough idea, their sample pricing for an 80-guest summer wedding on a Friday or Saturday in 2024/2025 (excluding beverages) comes to about $23,070 plus GST.
What is the food like?
The venue offers two main catering styles: a sharing platter menu (starting at $130 per person) and a traditional set menu (starting at $150 per person). Both options include canapés, your choice of petit fours or a cheeseboard served with your wedding cake, and tea and coffee. From the sample menu provided, it seems they focus on quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Think whole roasted eye fillet, line-caught market fish, and seasonal vegetables.
What are some of the features of the venue that make it special?
From a photographer's perspective, the panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf are a standout feature. The venue also offers a choice of ceremony arches, stylish oak tables, and both indoor and outdoor spaces. They provide lawn games like Giant Jenga and Cornhole, and for the adventurous, there's even an option for Extreme Hole-in-One Golf.
What about weddings in the rain?
One of the strengths of Kauri Bay Boomrock is its ability to handle Auckland's changeable weather. The Lodge provides a beautiful indoor option that doesn't compromise on views. As a photographer, I appreciate venues that can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, as it ensures we can get great shots regardless of the weather.
How can guests get to and from the venue?
The venue is located on a working farm, so they handle all transportation to ensure guest safety. They offer various options including coaches, luxury vehicles, and even helicopters. Prices vary depending on the method and pickup location, but they'll coordinate all of this for you.
Is there accommodation?
While Kauri Bay Boomrock doesn't have extensive on-site accommodation, they do offer a space called The Painted Barn. It's available for $800 per night and is often used by the groomsmen for the night before and/or the night of the wedding. For other guests, the venue provides a list of recommended local accommodation options.
A Photographer's Perspective
What I appreciate about Kauri Bay Boomrock is how it combines natural beauty with practical amenities. The variety of backdrops makes for diverse and interesting photos, while the venue's ability to handle weather changes reduces stress on the day.
Their wedding team seems to be hands-on from the planning stages through to the day itself, which often translates to a smoother-running event. This allows me to focus more on capturing moments rather than navigating logistical hiccups.
Every venue has its quirks, and it's worth noting that Kauri Bay Boomrock's location, while beautiful, means you'll need to factor in transportation costs and logistics for your guests.
Remember, while the venue is a crucial part of your wedding, it's the people and moments that truly make the day special. Whether you choose Kauri Bay Boomrock or another venue, focus on creating a day that reflects you as a couple. As a photographer, those are always the weddings that result in the most genuine and joyful images.
Location and Setting
Kauri Bay Boomrock is situated on a 500-acre property in Clevedon, about 45 minutes southeast of Auckland CBD. The venue overlooks the Hauraki Gulf, with views extending to the Coromandel Peninsula on clear days. The property features a mix of rolling hills and coastal views, providing diverse backdrops for wedding photos.
Venue Capacity and Spaces
The main event space, known as The Lodge, can accommodate:
Up to 200 guests for seated receptions
Up to 250 guests for cocktail-style events
The Lodge features large windows that make use of the coastal views. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options.
Key Information for Couples
Seasonal Considerations
Kauri Bay Boomrock operates year-round, with pricing that varies by season:
Summer (November to April): Highest rates and popularity
Autumn & Spring (May & October): Mid-range pricing
Winter (June to September): Lowest rates
Each season offers different atmospheres and photographic opportunities.
Pricing Structure (2024/2025)
Venue hire fees range from:
$4,950 in winter (all days)
$7,950 - $9,950 in summer (depending on the day)
Additional costs to consider:
Catering (starting from $130 per person for sharing platters)
Beverages (charged on consumption)
Transportation for guests
The venue requires a minimum spend of $20,000 for summer Friday and Saturday weddings, which includes catering and transport but excludes GST and beverages.
Catering Options
Two main menu styles are offered:
Sharing Platter Style (from $130 per person)
Traditional Set Menu (from $150 per person)
Both options include canapés, dessert or cheese board, and tea/coffee. The venue can accommodate dietary requirements.
Venue Features
Choice of ceremony arches
Oak tables and seating options
Full table service
On-site coordination
Complimentary lawn games
Optional add-ons like Extreme Hole-in-One Golf
Weather Considerations
The venue has indoor options that can be used in case of inclement weather, allowing for flexibility on the day.
Transportation
Due to its location on a working farm, the venue coordinates all guest transportation. Options include coaches, luxury vehicles, and helicopters. This is an additional cost to factor into your budget.
Accommodation
On-site accommodation is limited to The Painted Barn, often used by the wedding party. It's available for $800 per night. The venue provides a list of nearby accommodation options for other guests.
Photography Considerations
From a photographer's perspective, Kauri Bay Boomrock offers:
Varied landscapes for diverse photo opportunities
Good indoor options for wet weather
Scenic coastal views, particularly appealing at sunset
Ample space for group shots
It's worth noting that the quality of light can change dramatically throughout the day due to the coastal location, which can impact photography.
Final Thoughts
Kauri Bay Boomrock offers a blend of natural scenery and purpose-built facilities. Its coastal location provides distinctive photo opportunities but also necessitates careful planning for guest transportation.
As with any venue, it's important to visit in person and discuss your specific needs with both the venue coordinator and your chosen vendors. This will help ensure the space aligns with your vision and practical requirements for the day.
Remember, while the venue plays a significant role, it's the people and moments that truly define a wedding day. Choose a location that resonates with you as a couple and provides the backdrop for the celebration you envision.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding at Kauri Bay Boomrock?
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming but we promise we have done this lots of times before.
Get in Touch:
Have questions or need more details? Send us a message.
Let's chat about how we can make your wedding day perfect.
We’re here to help every step of the way, from the first email to the final delivery of your wedding photos.
Contact us to start planning. We can’t wait to be a part of your special day
Looking For More Inspiration?
