For the wanderlust lovers! Queenstown is a dream New Zealand elopement and wedding destination. With its snow-capped mountainscapes and remote crystalline lake locations, it is an adventure lover’s paradise and what better way to travel to your ceremony destination amongst the wild landscapes of New Zealand’s Central Otago than with a VW Kombi.
We sat down with Queenstown Kombi owner Chika to find out more about this cool Kombi camper and how you can hire it for your wedding day, honeymoon or next adventure in Queenstown.
“A VW camper is perfect, especially if you’re going for a festival style wedding with a big party in a field. The ultimate symbol of freedom and adventure, the Kombi will always hold a special place in our hearts. For the big day it’s a memorable feature, which makes everyone smile.”
Firstly, We are so excited to have Queenstown Kombi on our vendor collection, could you please share with us a little bit about who you are and what you do…
I provide a wedding chauffeur service and photobooth in the VW Kombi for events, I also offer couples who want to travel in and around Queenstown the chance to do so in a unique and memorable way.
How did Queenstown Kombi come to be?
I thought it would be great if we could hire a VW Kombi for traveling but I couldn’t find one in Queenstown. I saw VW Kombi’s for hire in other cities, so I decided to buy one and offer this service myself, that’s how Queenstown Kombi was born.
What involvement have QK had in the wedding industry and how did you find this niche a good fit for the industry?
There’s always pressure to do something a bit different and make your wedding stand out, so why not ditch the limo and go for something quirky instead? A VW camper is perfect, especially if you’re going for a festival style wedding with a big party in a field. The ultimate symbol of freedom and adventure, the Kombi will always hold a special place in our hearts. For the big day it’s a memorable feature, which makes everyone smile.
What is your most sought after service?
VW Kombi photoshoots for couples in the beautiful Central Otago scenery.
Have you been involved in elopements, and for our couples, could you explain how this works?
Yes I have arranged both formal and informal elopements. Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure capital, and marriage is also the adventure of a lifetime, so it’s a great match. An affordable and romantic alternative to flying around in a helicopter, the Queenstown Kombi offers couples a romantic private adventure. Queenstown has some of the best scenery in the world and being the wife of a tour guide, I know some awe-inspiring private locations. I can offer a package that includes a celebrant and professional photographer, with other details like bouquets and wine customised to suit each couple. Some couples prefer to have an informal elopement—with only a photographer and a private ceremony—no celebrant. Anything is possible. Get in touch and we will create a secret wedding for you and your beloved!
What are the limits for travel in the Kombi?
The vehicle is 2WD, so it can’t go to snowy and icy roads or unsealed roads like Skippers Canyon.
How many people can your vehicle transport?
3 passengers.
Can couples decorate the Kombi to suit their wedding theme or does it come with decorations?
We have a range of themed decorations and couples are welcome to decorate it in their own style if they want to.
What have been your favourite weddings to be featured in?
Every wedding is magical and a privilege to be a part of. Wanaka is my favourite location for weddings. Autumn is also a beautiful time for wedding photography in Central Otago—the trees are golden—just like Kowhai (the Queenstown Kombi).
Does the kombi have a fridge or electricity to help keep food and drinks cold?
It sure does! Perfect for your wedding day champagne.
Tell us about your photobooth Kombi and how this works?
It’s a mobile photo booth set up in a 1975 VW Kombi van. Using the latest technology our amazing photo booth has social media sharing capabilities, traditional photo strips, loads of fun props, dress-ups and decorations, a unique experience and of course classic good looks.
Do couples need to be located in QT to use your service or will you travel around NZ for weddings?
We service Queenstown and the surrounding towns—Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, Glenorchy, Cromwell, Alexandra and Wanaka. We can offer out of town events by arrangement.
How long in advance should couples book?
We are almost fully booked this summer 2022-2023, so I recommend clients book at least 6 months in advance.
Can couples hire the kombi for overnight use?
Yes. Couples can book Queenstown Kombi for their honeymoon or for a private retreat, through Camplify, HERE.
What are your dreams in business and where to next?
I was told by some clients recently that they had dreamed of being in a VW Kombi since they were children. I would be happy if I could make more people’s dreams come true. I like this Mark Twain quote: “Don’t dream your life, but live your dream.” That’s how I live my life and I hope to offer others the same opportunity.
