The Occasional Word

My Favourite Venues (In Auckland)

This is a constantly transforming list, however I know that the big search is on for Christmas functions and for weddings next year so here we are in no particular order:

1. The Auckland Zoo - I love this place for so many reasons. The staff there are great and completely open to your creative ideas and needs. Not only this but there are so many different spaces. You can have your wedding on Willow Island or at the band rotunda. You could host a dinner at any one of three animal shelters or the Old Elephant House. Even better, proceeds are going to a great conservation effort. 

2. Hopetoun Alpha - A building with real character and so many options for making it your own. 

3. Auckland Museum Dome - I actually love the foyer, however the constraints on pack in / out time are just too tight for my liking and can be very limiting. The dome is exclusively used for functions and is really a beautiful option with great views. 

4. Bridgewater Estate - Stunning gardens. A nice option if you don't mind being a bit further away from Central Auckland.

5. The Wharf - If you don't mind the price tag and if you can get in - this venue is gorgeous!! 

6. Orams Lounge - This is a bit of a hidden gem. Behind and above the Orams boat warehouse (which is also fab for functions!!) Is Orams Lounge. This place is all about the amazing views.

Feel free to let me know your pics for best Auckland venues!

The Grove

Last friday, my husband and I were invited to experience The Grove by owner Michael Dearth. Tucked away in the soon to be newly renovated St Patrick's square, this fabulous restaurant is a real winner. The food was amazing and we particularly enjoyed the venison starter with whipped honey and lavender puree. The combination of flavours was expertly executed and the plate was truly beautiful. 

 

The Grove is available for corporate functions and weddings and I have to say if you're a foodie at heartthis is the place for you! Michael and the staff are wonderful and would be sure to wow your guests with a culinary experience.

Contact us if you would like to know more about having your next function at The Grove. 

 

Inspired By Your Surroundings

I always stress the importance of venue to my clients, all your other decisions will flow out from this one choice.   Choose your setting first. Resist the urge to make your venue something it’s not; you will end up not achieving the desired result or spending a small fortune. Choose venues that inspire you and then honour the space you have chosen with well-placed, harmonious detail.

·      A Beachside Setting. Think relaxed, organic, simple and unfussy. Consider logistics of access, weather and permits. Use natives, orchids, calla lilies, candles, rocks, driftwood and glass. Contemplate fresh ocean inspired colours, bright tropical hues or subtle earthy tones.

·      A Vineyard Setting. Think sophisticated, luscious, gourmet, opulent. Use roses, peonies, hydrangea, fruit, wood, wrought iron and terracotta. Consider a rich fruit inspired palette.

·      A Hotel Setting. Think blank canvas! Hotels are perfect for creating your own signature look. Do decide on an overall look and stick to it. Be sure to consider lighting.

·      Garden Setting. Think vintage, intimate, romantic, natural. Consider seasonality – find out what will be blooming. Use vintage china, hydrangea, garden rose, topiary, urns, wrought iron. Contemplate pastels, autumn tones or fresh shades of green and white.

·      Restaurant Setting. Take cues from your setting, Italian? Japanese? Moroccan? Use candles, quality glassware, china and linen. Avoid highly scented flowers.

Partingtons - Divine Dining

Last Thursday I was invited to visit The Langham, Auckland - What a treat! Of course I fell in love almost immediately with the amazing gold chandelier in the foyer but the hotel had so much more to offer. A highlight of the visit was one of the onsite restaurants, Partingtons. New Zealand's 2006 restaurant of the year so the food is obviously delicious but this aside, the decor is gorgeous!

The setting is luxurious and rich and features a gold and black palette with highlights of teal. The restaurant seats 50 guests and is available for private functions. Further, Partingtons boasts a beautiful private dining room.

I would most definitely recommend considering Partingtons at The Langham for your next formal function or even wedding reception.