Driftwood Paradise

Driftwood Paradise is a coastal property on Hansen Road near Kerikeri, with its own white sand beach and a stretch of waterfront lawn looking out over the water. It runs as a small, all-in-one wedding spot for couples who want the whole place to themselves. Ceremonies can happen on the lawn, down on the beach or in the bush, and the reception moves into a rustic boatshed that seats up to 50 with a concrete floor and room for a marquee alongside if you need more cover. The setting does most of the work, so there is little need to dress it up. Catering and drinks are yours to arrange. It is a BYO venue with no corkage, and the owners keep a list of recommended caterers and mobile bars. The wedding package starts at $9,500 and includes two nights in the accommodation overlooking the venue, with the other cottages on site booked out so the property stays private. Weddings run through the warmer months, roughly mid-October to mid-April. It suits couples after an intimate beachfront day with somewhere for the wedding party to stay the night.