At present only four venues for weddings are available as the Bandsmen’s Memorial Rotunda is closed due to earthquake damage.
Only the five areas set aside for wedding and civil union ceremonies can be booked. It is not possible to use any other areas of the Gardens due to the sensitive nature of the plant collections and limitations on space.
The Azalea and Magnolia Garden provides pocketed areas of classical springtime favourites with the beauty of magnolias in September, followed by the colourful blaze of azaleas in October. Capacity approximately 100 people.
The Cockayne Memorial Garden offers an enclosed grass area surrounded by kowhai, manuka and other New Zealand native plants. The area provides relative privacy and a natural atmosphere. Capacity approximately 100 people.
The Pinetum is a natural grouping of stately large pines and conifers with the Avon River providing a backdrop. Capacity approximately 100 people.
The Daffodil Woodland is the perfect setting for a classic spring wedding. The woodland is bordered by a small stream and features a sea of spring flowers, meandering pathways and specimen oaks. Capacity approximately 100 people.
The Bandsmen’s Memorial Rotunda provides a romantic, historical setting of contrasting seasonal colour and a profusion of woodland flowers in spring, with towering oak trees providing dappled shade in summer. Capacity approximately 40 people (standing).
Photographs
To take wedding or civil union photos in the Botanic Gardens you will need to obtain a letter of permission. You may take wedding photos anywhere in the Gardens except the following areas; the Central Rose Garden, the conservatories, or any area that has been booked for a wedding or civil union ceremony.
When taking wedding photos, please remember that the Botanic Gardens is a public place and respect the rights of all visitors. Photo sessions should be organised so that visitor movement is not obstructed, for example across bridges and along pathways.
Please make sure your photographer carries the letter of permission on the day.
Enquiries & bookings
A booking for your wedding or civil union ceremony and for a photo session is essential. You must also read and agree to our conditions of approval [PDF 24KB]
For more information or to make a booking:
Phone: (03) 941 7590
Email: christchurchbotanicgardens@ccc.govt.nz
Alternatively call into the Christchurch Botanic Gardens Information Centre.
Time limitations
Wedding and civil union ceremonies and or photo session bookings are limited to a maximum of three hours. This includes pack in and pack out time. Other ceremonies may be booked to follow your event so when booking you will need to allow at least a half an hour pack in time before the ceremony is to start.
Rehearsal times are not included within your booking arrangement.
Fees
A fee of $61.30 is payable in advance for wedding and civil union ceremonies.
There is no charge for wedding and civil union photo sessions.
