The Perfect Blend of Life's Passions

There is a romance in wine that, like love itself, is impossible to define. Both must be experienced to be appreciated and perhaps that is why vineyard weddings have captured the hearts and imaginations of so many couples looking to plan a wedding outside the box.

New Zealand's oldest wine region and second largest producer, Hawke's Bay - with endless summer sunshine and premium venues - has earned its reputation as one of the country's leading wedding destinations.

While most regions host their top restaurants and wedding venues in the bustling city centre, Hawke's Bay has its own hidden away in rolling river valleys, beneath sweeping peaks and amid the vast expanse of vines which produce much of the country's top Syrah, Bordeaux blends, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Because wine is about making a statement on terra firma as much as in the glass itself, Hawke's Bay's leading wine estates have spared no expense in creating architecturally spectacular restaurants in which to match their best blends with fine cuisine.

Combined with a landscape that dishes out drama in an almost cavalier way and an eclectic mix of activities both high octane and deliciously, slow paced, it is understandable why wedding guests are always quick to RSVP for a wine country wedding.

But a wedding is about practical considerations as much as emotional ones, and the simple fact is that at any of a dozen breathtaking venues in Hawke's Bay a bride can prepare herself in a luxury vineyard villa before walking on her father's arm to her ceremony, have her photos taken on-site and be back with her guests for a five-star meal before wandering back to her gorgeous accomodation - this time on the arm of her new husband.

The next day they can join their guests in exploring the region that has a little bit of the best of everything - empty golden sand beaches, rustic farmer's markets and vibrant history in the buzzing art deco city of Napier, where a modern airport connects the region to the rest of the country.

As a wedding photographer, my challenge is to strike a balance between beautiful locations and practical matters such as the time spent away from guests, while still creating a collection of images with several different looks and feels.

With their crisp green vineyards, moody cellars stacked with French Oak and dramatic architecture, Hawke's Bay wineries provide breathtaking backdrops without the need to waste precious moments during the wedding day travelling to far-flung locations.

There is a magical symmetry between the concept of growth and renewal in a vineyard which underscores the important principles of marriage. Wine and the making of wine is a labour of love where elements come together and the passing of time can, in the right conditions, make a good thing great. It's something Hawke's Bay has mastered, both in the bottle and as a place to say "I do".

Top Shelf: Best Places to say "I do".

Church Road

The cathedral-like proportions of the Tom McDonald cellar lends a sense of grandeur, while the expansive park-like setting and New Zealand's only wine museum ass to the uniqueness of the venue.

Craggy Range

Tucked into the Tukituki Valley beneath the great sweep of Te Mata Peak, Craggy Range boasts some of the country's best scenery along with award winning wine and cuisine.

The Old Church

A picture-postcard historic church transformed with opulent detailing into a top restaurant and ceremony venue, it is set amid the vines and features an exclusive villa for accomodation.

Mission Estate Winery

New Zealand's oldest winery, the Mission Estate's glorious old seminary building is found at the top of a sweeping tree-lined driveway, overlooking the vines.

Hidden Gems

Hawke's Bay Opera House

Old world drama combines with a modern twist in this beautiful old building.

The River Room

Set high in the hills looking across to Te Mata Peak and down to the Tukituki River, this beautiful little retreat accomodates up to 40 guests.

Crab Farm Winery

Low-key and quirky with its rustic interior, Crab Farm replaces glitz with heart and soul.

ChirstChurch at Pukehou and Eskdale War Memorial Church

For those looking for the picture-perfect cute country church, these two are hard to beat.

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