Each season, spring, summer and autumn, we open the gates just for our booked couples.A chance to return, to wander slowly through the grounds again, to bring family, friends or vendors along, and to begin shaping the day in a more grounded, considered way. Questions are asked, plans take form, and the whole thing starts …
Read more “Home baking for Old Forest Open Day – date, orange and cardamon scones.”
There were so many incredible moments throughout the day, but standing under the tree for our ceremony is something we will never forget. It felt so intimate and grounding, being surrounded by all of our favourite people in such a stunning setting. There was this overwhelming sense of calm and love, it was everything …
I have no words for this place, such a special place with a cool history, the most amazing venue I could ever dream of!!Su-an was a bless during the planning months before the wedding day, she helped so much, always answering all my never ending questions.We had the best day of our lives, everyone enjoyed …
When we first arrived at Old Forest School, the grounds were a blank canvas—an expanse of paddock with barely a flower in sight. Every trace of the historic gardens had been erased by time, replaced by fences and grazing land. Over the years, we have worked lovingly to transform the venue into one of the …
Read more “The Gardens and Wildlife of Old Forest School: A Thriving Oasis of Nature and History”
At Old Forest School, we understand that selecting the right vendors is essential to creating the wedding of your dreams. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find professionals who truly understand your vision and deliver above and beyond. That’s why we’re proud to offer our Highly Recommended Gold Star Vendor …
At Old Forest School, we pride ourselves on being one of the most timeless yet relevant wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ. We’ve perfected a unique balance of elegance and history, creating a venue that is both stylish and rooted in heritage. Unlike flash-in-the-pan trends that come and go, everything we do at Old …
Read more “Old Forest School: Timeless Trends with Heritage and Heart”
For couples dreaming of a wedding filled with vintage elegance and rustic charm, Old Forest School offers the perfect canvas. Nestled in the scenic Bay of Plenty, NZ, our venue is a treasure trove of vintage finds, heritage furniture, and old-world charm, making it an unforgettable setting for a beautifully styled wedding. From carefully restored …
Read more “Creating an Elegantly Heritage-Filled Rustic Wedding at Old Forest School”
Here at Old Forest School, we’ve always been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique history of the Pongakawa Valley. Our historic venue is a treasure trove of vintage charm, where stories from the past seem to whisper through the trees, the original school buildings, and the curated collection of heritage items we’ve lovingly gathered …
Read more “The Pongakawa Railway Sign Comes Home to Old Forest School”
At Old Forest School, we’re not just known for being one of the best wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ— we’re also home to two very special residents who have stolen the hearts of couples and guests alike. Teddy and Tim, our beloved miniature donkeys, are rescue brothers who found their forever home here …
Read more “Meet Teddy and Tim: The Beloved Miniature Donkeys at Old Forest School”
At Old Forest School, we know that nature has its own plans, and sometimes those plans include a bit of rain or even a full-on cyclone! But rest assured, our Bay of Plenty wedding venue is prepared for every weather scenario. From the historic Schoolhouse to the charming Tabernacle and spacious Noshery, we’ve designed our …
Read more “Embracing the Beauty of Inclement Weather Weddings at Old Forest School”