Ōnuku Marae

Ōnuku Marae sits above Akaroa Harbour on Banks Peninsula, a Ngāi Tahu marae that welcomes weddings among its grounds and buildings. The original Ōnuku church, one of the country's oldest, is a striking spot for a ceremony with the harbour beyond. The church seats around 30 for the vows, while the wharekai, or dining house, handles the reception for up to 250 seated or 350 standing. The ancestral house adds another gathering space for about 100. Catering is provided on site with menus tailored to the couple, and marae stays mean guests can be hosted overnight. The setting carries a strong sense of place and history.