At Old Forest School, we’re passionate about giving couples the freedom to create a wedding that’s uniquely theirs, down to the very last bite. Unlike many other wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ, we’ve chosen not to install a commercial kitchen. Why? Because we believe that food is one of the best ways to express individuality and style. By not having an on-site kitchen, we allow our couples the ultimate flexibility in catering, whether that’s with gourmet burger trucks, top-tier celebrity chefs, or beloved local favourites like Big Smoke BBQ or Mr Whippy.
A Truly Flexible Dining Experience
With no fixed kitchen facilities, couples are free to bring in the caterer of their choice, provided they’re fully mobile, self-contained, and hold Public Liability Insurance. This freedom allows for an incredible range of catering styles that go beyond the usual options. Want a classic sit-down meal? No problem. Prefer an outdoor BBQ feast or a unique food truck experience? Absolutely! The choice is entirely up to you, making Old Forest School one of the most flexible and creative wedding venues in Bay of Plenty.
Catering for All Budgets and Tastes
Our BYO catering approach is not only unique, but it’s also budget-friendly. Couples have the flexibility to choose caterers that fit within their budget, making it easy to allocate spending according to their priorities. Whether you’re planning a lavish spread with a celebrity chef or a delicious, laid-back meal with your favourite food truck, our approach lets you personalise your wedding day while keeping costs manageable.
Dietary Needs? No Problem
For guests with dietary restrictions, the freedom to choose your own caterer means you can find specialists who can accommodate every need. From vegan and vegetarian options to gluten-free menus and specific allergies, couples can tailor their catering to ensure every guest is considered. This flexibility is especially valued by couples looking for inclusive wedding venues near Tauranga or Te Puke, where every dietary requirement can be met with creativity and care.
A Unique Culinary Experience for Guests
One of the greatest joys of having such catering flexibility at Old Forest School is the wow factor it brings to guests. Traditional wedding food is great, but offering something unique and unexpected can make your day unforgettable. Imagine guests raving afterwards: “That was amazing, I’ve never had food like that at a wedding before—it was so them!” This freedom allows couples to create an experience that reflects their tastes and personalities, whether it’s gourmet tacos, wood-fired pizzas, plant-based feasts, or a decadent BBQ spread.
A Venue that Celebrates Choice
At Old Forest School, we’re known as one of the best wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ, for our ability to cater to every style and budget. We’ve intentionally designed our venue to prioritise flexibility and celebrate choice. We’re delighted to offer a space where every couple can feel empowered to create a dining experience that’s as unique as their love story.
If you’re looking for a wedding venue that offers total culinary freedom, flexible budgets, and endless options to surprise your guests, Old Forest School is the perfect place to make your dream wedding a reality. Here, your wedding feast can be exactly what you want it to be, leaving your guests talking about the incredible food long after the day is over.