Old Forest School offers some of the most beautiful and versatile ceremony options of any wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ. Our venue is set amidst lush, natural beauty and historic charm, giving you a range of scenic spots to choose from, each with its own unique ambiance. Whether you envision a romantic forest setting, a charming ceremony by the pond, or even a timeless moment in our historic Schoolhouse, Old Forest School provides stunning outdoor and indoor spaces to create the wedding of your dreams.
1. Under the Trees: A Rustic, Natural Ceremony
For couples dreaming of a rustic wedding venue in Bay of Plenty, nothing is more enchanting than saying “I do” under the canopy of towering trees. The forested area at Old Forest School offers a serene, natural backdrop that feels both intimate and magical. Surrounded by nature, this spot is perfect for couples seeking wedding venues with forest surroundings and those who want a ceremony that feels deeply connected to the beauty of the Bay of Plenty. With sunlight streaming through the leaves, it’s a picturesque setting that creates unforgettable memories.
2. In Front of the Iconic Little Barn
The Little Barn is one of the most recognisable and beloved spots at Old Forest School. Couples who choose to have their ceremony in front of this iconic Bay of Plenty wedding venue backdrop enjoy a blend of rustic charm and romance, with the barn’s distinctive character adding to the ambiance. With its charming facade and vintage appeal, the Little Barn is a favourite among photographers, creating an instantly recognisable scene that’s perfect for a wedding venue with indoor and outdoor spaces in Tauranga or Te Puke. Imagine exchanging vows here, surrounded by friends and family, with the barn’s warm, inviting presence framing the moment.
3. By the Wildlife Pond: Serene and Scenic
Our wildlife pond, complete with a quaint jetty, provides a peaceful and scenic ceremony location that’s perfect for couples looking for wedding venues with garden and water views in Bay of Plenty. The pond’s reflective surface and natural beauty offer a calming atmosphere, making it ideal for those who want a ceremony that feels serene and secluded. This spot is especially popular for its picturesque setting, giving you and your guests a tranquil experience that truly embraces the natural beauty of the Bay of Plenty.
4. On the Sports Field: Open, Spacious, and Elegant
For a grander, more open feel, some couples choose to host their ceremony on the Old Forest School sports field. This spacious location offers plenty of room for a larger guest list and creates a setting that’s both elegant and versatile. Perfect for couples looking for outdoor wedding venues near Tauranga or Te Puke with a countryside feel, the sports field offers an expansive view that’s ideal for creating a beautiful, custom setup with our white cross-back chairs and a charming signing table.
5. The Historic Schoolhouse: A Charming Indoor Option
For those who prefer an indoor option, or in case of wet weather, our historic Schoolhouse is always available as a beautiful backup. As one of the best indoor wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, the Schoolhouse offers a charming and intimate setting that’s perfect for a cozy, heartfelt ceremony. Its rustic interiors, historic charm, and welcoming ambiance make it a favourite choice for couples who want a timeless indoor ceremony option. The Schoolhouse stands ready as a trusted backup, ensuring your wedding day remains perfect, rain or shine.
Elegant Touches: Cross-Back Chairs and Signing Tables
Regardless of where you choose to hold your ceremony at Old Forest School, we ensure every detail is just right. Our beautiful white cross-back chairs add a touch of elegance to outdoor settings, perfectly complementing the natural beauty of each ceremony location. We also provide a charming signing table and chairs, allowing you to complete your vows in style, with every detail thoughtfully arranged.
Endless Possibilities and Personalised Choices
At Old Forest School, the ceremony possibilities are as unique as the couples we celebrate. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic Little Barn, the peaceful pond, or a new spot you discover while exploring the grounds, each area at Old Forest School offers something different and special. Couples looking for unique wedding venues in Bay of Plenty often find their ideal location here, as the venue’s variety allows for personalised touches that make each wedding unique.
The Perfect Ceremony Awaits at Old Forest School
With so many ceremony options to choose from, Old Forest School stands out as one of the most versatile and beautiful wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ. Our scenic spots allow couples to create a ceremony that’s both personal and picturesque, backed by the peace of mind that our historic Schoolhouse provides as a wet-weather alternative. No matter where you choose to say “I do,” Old Forest School is here to make your ceremony unforgettable, bringing rustic charm, natural beauty, and timeless elegance to every moment.