Situated in the heart of the Bombay Hills, Bracu Estate boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding Olive Groves, making it an awe-inspiring location for any event.
More than just a beautiful venue, the Bracu team behind the estate is dedicated to providing exceptional service and personalized attention to every detail of your special day.
We speak to Brittany Edwards from Bracu about this truly unique and unforgettable wedding venue…
What makes your venue stand out?
New Zealand is full of wineries, but Olive Groves? Few and far between – especially ones that host weddings every week! We love being a venue far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet only 40 minutes from Auckland CBD (and 55 from Hamilton CBD.) One of my favourite facts about our Estate, and olive trees in general is that they’re evergreen. Whether you’re looking at a summer or winter wedding, our groves are a picturesque setting all year round. Also, the versatility of our venue – Bracu Estate hosts four ceremony spaces (our Marquee, Gazebo, Olive Grove and Fountain Pond) and three reception spaces (our Pavilion, Bracu Restaurant and Wine Library). Having so many options, it’s up to each individual wedding couple to choose their dream location, and with so many to choose from it’s easy to see why we’re booking into 2025!
Do you offer catering packages with your venue?
We don’t have a set package but do have set prices per guest depending on what you opt for. (Depending on your wedding size we have a range of options to suit all. We offer canapés, platters, walk & fork, three-course a la carte, buffet and our late-night snacks.)
How many does your venue hold?
The smallest wedding we’ve held is 16 guests at Bracu Restaurant, and our largest was 230 guests in our Pavilion.
Where do your couples come from?
All over the world! This year alone we have had couples travelling from the UK to create their dream destination wedding. A handful of Australian couples have crossed the ditch for their nuptials and of course, a large number of Auckland-based couples tie the knot at Bracu Estate.
What’s the best part about having weddings at your venue?
I can’t pick one, but I can give you a top three?!
- Our photography locations – we have so many locations on site (including Sunset Hill) where the most magical wedding photos are taken.
- Our Wedding Executive, Lisa Tapley-Bale. If Lisa were in charge of my wedding – I wouldn’t worry about a thing! Lisa knows Bracu like the back of her hand and goes the extra mile to ensure that everything is perfect for your big day.
- We have everything in one location.
- Multiple accommodation options; Estate House, Olive House and Franklin House.
- Our award-winning Bracu Restaurant.
- Beretta at Bracu, perfect for a pre-wedding activities for the gents (think clay bird shooting, archery, air rifles and knife throwing)
- And of course, free parking for all guests at the Estate.
What is your favourite wedding you’ve held at your venue?
Each person on the Estate seems to have a different opinion on this question! In February we had a stunning wedding setup for Alyssa and Liam, which featured the most gorgeous floral set up I’ve have ever seen. It was perfect. Their chosen vendors were La Lumiere and who in tandem created the most amazing head table setup with Table Flower.
Calling all Bracu couples!
We are currently creating our 2024 Bracu Estate Wedding Catalogue. We are calling out to all couples, whether they were married here last week, last year or last decade as we would love to have an array of wedding photos from throughout the years. Visit bracu.co.nz/brideguide for full details.
