After 13.5 years of being together, we decided to get married. We found Songbird Retreat online and as soon as we visited the venue we fell in love with the stunning, expansive grounds and especially the rosebush-lined walkway. The surroundings are breathtaking and the songbird magical. We took advantage of photos in the eucalyptus tree that envelops you, for a really intimate moment. Photo opportunities are absolutely everywhere. Our only wish was that we had a big wedding to take advantage of all the grounds because the entire property is stunning. Our wedding was very small and intimate and the area near the upper platform was just perfect for us. We were able to decorate the wooden arch and take advantage of the beautiful views. Helen, our host, was just delightful and simply incredible to work with from the beginning. She bent over backwards to help make our day amazing. Communication was prompt and responsive and all the small details were taken care of for us. If you want a host that is generous and warm, Helen is the person for you. If you want a venue that is outdoor, exquisite and hidden away from the rest of the world, Songbird Retreat is...
Read moreWe absolutely loved having our wedding at Songbird Retreat. The moment we saw the beautiful landscaping, gardens in full bloom, and the simplicity of the space, we knew it was the one. It offered everything we were looking for—a stunning location to host both our ceremony and reception, surrounded by nature in a part of New Zealand that means so much to us.
One of the things we appreciated most was the flexibility. The venue allowed us to make the day truly our own—from bringing in our own vendors (including catering and alcohol) to setting up a marquee that suited our style and guest list.
The on-site Airbnb was another highlight. I got ready there on the morning of the wedding, which meant no rushing—hair and makeup came to us, and the whole morning was calm and relaxed. Staying on site after the wedding was magical too. Waking up to native birdsong, surrounded by nature, gave us a peaceful moment to soak it all in before leaving.
Helen and Dean, the new owners, were excellent communicators—passionate, attentive, and genuinely excited to share their venue with us.
It was the perfect canvas for our day, and we...
Read moreWe recently had the pleasure of hosting our wedding at Songbird Retreat, and I cannot recommend this venue enough. From the moment we arrived, my partner and I were blown away by the stunning location and the warm welcome we received from the owners, Katherine and Adam. Their kindness and attention to detail made us feel confident that our special day was in good hands. The natural beauty of the surroundings, combined with the stunning flora and landscaping made for a picture-perfect backdrop for our ceremony and reception. We appreciated the flexibility they offered in creating a customized experience that perfectly matched our vision. The day was seamless and unforgettable, thanks in no small part to Katherine and Adam's expert guidance and support. We wholeheartedly recommend Songbird Retreat to anyone looking for a thoughtful, personalized wedding experience in a...
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