Great weddings are a celebration of lasting happiness, love and success. Romantic and intimate, they’re filled with a sense of harmony, joy and inner peace that stems from an inspiring view of the future.
Zen Garden offers the perfect setting for such an occasion. Hidden away in the idyllic countryside of Whitford in East Auckland, this exclusive estate is set in its own tranquil environment. The 75-acre property includes ancient forests, natural water features, Japanese gardens, simple yet luxurious facilities, and sweeping elevated views across the landscapes and harbour to Rangitoto Island and the distant city lights.
Zen Garden is just 40 minutes from the city centre, but a world away from the pressures and stress of urban living. It’s a place where time stands still while peace and romance fill the air, along with delightful birdsong and the fragrance of exotic gardens.
Dotted along the ridgeline at the edge of our ancient forest, our comfortable spacious suites provide an ideal romantic getaway for your wedding night or honeymoon. You’ll wake together in a stunningly peaceful scenic environment, with beautiful views symbolic of the future you have to share.
Main Lodge at Zen Garden can cater for up to 110 wedding guests depending on your choice of dining arrangements. In partnership with the Formosa Golf Resort, just a five-minute drive away, we can provide accommodation for up to 112 guests.
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Seating Capacities
| Venue |
 |
 |
| Main Lodge | 80-110 | 150 |
| Theatre/ Music Room | 50 | 60 |
Wedding Arrangements
Recommendation One VENUE HIRE: NZ $3,000 – $4,000+ *
Guests arrive at 10:00am, ceremony starts from 10:30 am, photography and music after 11:15am, cocktails and canapés serve at 12:00pm and end at 2:00 pm. Four hours exclusive use.
Recommendation Two VENUE HIRE: NZ $3,300 - $4,400+ *
Ceremony, photography and music start from 5:00 pm, meal serves at 7:00pm and end at 9:30 pm. Party continues till mid-night. Seven hours exclusive use
Recommendation Three VENUE HIRE: NZ $3,600 – $5,200+ *
Cocktails start as guests arrive at 3:00pm. Ceremony begins at 4:15pm. Photography, music and canapés start after the ceremony. Dinner and speeches start at 6:30pm and end at 9:00pm. Party continues till 12:00 pm. Nine hours exclusive use.
Recommendation Four VENUE HIRE: NZ $4,200 – $5,600+ *
Cocktails and canapés start as guests arrive at 12:00 pm. Ceremony starts at 12:30pm. Lunch begins after the ceremony. Take photos with the photographer in mid afternoon. Canapés and entertainments starts from 4:30pm and finish at around 6:15pm. Guests seated followed by speeches starting at 6:30pm. Party gets underway around 9:30pm and continues until 12:00pm. Twelve hours exclusive use.
Important Notes:
- Group transportation can be arranged at additional cost.
- All rates are for venue hire only, which does not include food and beverage, flowers and decoration, equipment hire, entertainment, organised activities or any other additional services.
- Special rates for wedding accommodation can be arranged.
- All rates / hire charges are EXCLUSIVE GST (15%).
- Self-catering options are welcome.
- Special childcare can be pre-arranged if required.
- The entire Zen Garden is smoke-free. Thank you for keeping our air clean and fresh.
Reservations:
- All rates and packages are subject to change, please confirm with reservations at time of booking.
- In order to confirm a reservation, we require a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the total cost. The payment can either be made in the form of a bank transfer, bank cheque or current credit card with expiry date. Final payment of 100% is required 30 days prior to the event. Reservations made within 7 days of arrival will be accepted with credit card and bank transfers.
Cancellations:
Zen Garden is a small exclusive resort and cancellations affect us greatly. Due to our intimate size, the following charges will apply if the booking is cancelled:
- Within 30 days of the event, then 50% of the total cost of the booking will be charged.
- Within 7 days of the event, then 100% of the total cost of the booking will be charged.