ONCE UPON A FOREST: THE STORY OF OLD FOREST SCHOOL

A Heritage Estate for Curated Celebrations

Old Forest School is not simply a wedding venue. It is a rare discovery: a secluded private estate where history breathes, nature leads, and every path opens onto a new story.

Hidden within New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, the estate is a tapestry of formal gardens, restored 1930s architecture, whispering orchards, hedgerows heavy with bloom, and wildflower meadows that ripple with light. It is a place where elegance feels effortless, where the curated meets the wild, and where no two celebrations could ever be the same.

There are places built for weddings. And then there are places where weddings feel inevitable.

“This is rare. It’s not for everyone. But if it’s for you, it’s unforgettable.”

Read what our lovely couples have to say about their unforgettable day at Old Forest School

 

AMBER & MITCHELL

Our wedding was everything we could have dreamt of and even more. 

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KERRI & KATE

There are so many amazing memories…walking back down the aisle as wife and wife, listening to speeches, our first dance was unreal including dancing the night away under the gorgeous OFS lights.

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JULIANA & HARRY

I have no words for this place, such a special place with a cool history, the most amazing venue I could ever dream of!

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Take a tour through our spaces

Take a photo tour through Old Forest School and step into its timeless charm, exploring character-filled spaces and lovingly tended, ever-evolving gardens that make our venue so enchanting and unforgettable.

TAKE ME TO THE SPACES

WEDDING

Are you searching for a magical place for your wedding?

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HISTORY

Would you like to learn more about the origin of Old Forest School?

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EDITIORIAL & FILM

Scouting for a unique film or photography location?

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OLD FOREST SCHOOL

795 Rotoehu Road, Pongakawa, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
info@oldforestschool.co.nz