More free Tauranga ceremony sites

Te Puna Quarry Park

Just a few minutes north of Tauranga is the beautiful Quarry Park. There is a lower lawn area called the Dragon Lawn (as seen in this photo) where the trees form a natural archway. Bench seats are available for guests.

There are other areas you could use for your ceremony too - as long as everyone is able to climb the stairs.
Obviously, it’s not free to use the Gallery room, kitchen, and toilet facilities but it is an affordable option. I married a couple there who had grazing platters in the gallery after the ceremony, then everyone went into town for dinner later. Others have had a sit-down meal for 40 guests.

If you would like to have your entire reception there, you can find more information in this link: https://www.quarrypark.org.nz/weddings/

Platform by Papamoa Surf Lifesaving Club

Just beside the Papamoa Surf Lifesaving Club there is a wooden viewing platform with an amazing view of the beach. It’s a great way to have a beach wedding without actually standing on the sand. I have conducted weddings there for up to 20 people. There’s parking nearby too, so it’s easy to carry a speaker to the platform for music for the arrival of the bride.

This spot is beautiful in the daytime and magical at night, with stunning sunsets behind Mt Maunganui / Mauao.

Remember - when using a public space you should apply to the local council for permission: https://www.tauranga.govt.nz/exploring/parks-and-reserves/using-our-parks/weddings