The Vines at Bushmere Estate

The Vines sits in the middle of Bushmere Estate vineyard at Makaraka, about ten minutes from central Gisborne. It is a working restaurant and cellar door that turns over to weddings and functions, with the vineyard rows and gardens on hand for photos and the ceremony. There are three spaces to choose from. The tasting room seats up to 15, the restaurant up to 60 and the marquee holds around 180 for a seated meal, with larger numbers negotiable. Couples get exclusive use from mid-afternoon through to midnight. Catering is done in house, with canape, buffet and set menu options and Bushmere Estate wines poured alongside craft beer and spirits. There is no BYO. S.A.M's Cottage on the vineyard is available for the night before, the newlyweds or a few guests. Venue hire starts at $1,000, rising to $2,500 on statutory holidays, with catering and drinks costed separately. It suits couples after a relaxed vineyard setting close to town.