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 most beautiful and ecologically vibrant wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ. Our gardens are now alive with colour, fragrance, and the hum of countless insects and birds, creating a thriving ecosystem where native flora and fauna can flourish.
Rebuilding History, Planting for the Future
Our mission to restore Old Forest School’s gardens has been guided by stories from past pupils, site maps from former staff, and the cherished memories of valley elders. Through their guidance, we’ve rebuilt the grounds in the spirit of the old school gardens. The headmaster’s orchard, for instance, was replanted exactly where it once stood, honouring the history of the land. Some plants, like the valley dahlia, were reintroduced based on stories of early European settlers who first brought them here, and now these vibrant blooms flourish across our gardens.
Many of the flowers, shrubs, and trees that grace Old Forest School have been lovingly donated by elders from the valley, who feel a special connection to the land and its future. Even our beloved florists have been known to share in the gardening spirit, trading dahlias with us, donating plants, and even sprinkling wildflower seeds around the venue as a parting gift. These thoughtful additions have created a legacy that will live on, preserving the essence of the valley and its people for generations to come.
A Haven for Birds, Bugs, and Bats
One of the greatest joys of restoring our gardens has been witnessing the return of local wildlife. Old Forest School is now home to a diverse range of native birds, insects, and even New Zealand’s very special native bat, the pekapeka. From the majestic New Zealand falcon soaring overhead to the lively Tūī and melodic Morepork (Ruru) echoing through the trees, our venue has become a sanctuary for creatures big and small.
Our plantings have been carefully selected to support a healthy ecosystem, providing food sources and shelter for wildlife year-round. Native plants and wildflowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while our thriving insect population supports an array of bird species. New Zealand’s wildlife is precious and often vulnerable, and it’s our privilege to create a space where these creatures can thrive. By preserving Old Forest School as a welcoming habitat, we contribute to the conservation of these vital species and celebrate the unique biodiversity of the Bay of Plenty.
The Addition of a Wildlife Pond
A few years ago, we introduced a wildlife pond, which has since become a vibrant gathering place for waterbirds, insects, and frogs. The pond, encircled by native plants and wildflowers, supports our resident little black shag and welcomes paradise ducks and other visiting birds. The addition of the pond has transformed our gardens, providing a reliable water source that enhances the diversity and health of the ecosystem. Frogs have made their homes here, and dragonflies dance across the water, bringing even more life to our growing natural sanctuary.
Supporting Pollinators and Preserving Biodiversity
Pollinators are the unsung heroes of any ecosystem, and we’ve planted our gardens with them in mind. From wildflowers to fruit-bearing trees, our gardens are full of plants that support pollinators throughout the seasons. Bees, butterflies, and hoverflies are frequent visitors, drawn to the colours and scents of our blooming flowers. By providing a year-round food source for these essential insects, we not only ensure our gardens remain beautiful and productive but also contribute to the larger environmental effort to preserve pollinator populations.
Dead Hedges, Bug Hotels, and Year-Round Food Sources
Creating a welcoming environment for wildlife goes beyond plants and flowers. We’ve built dead hedges and bug hotels to provide year-round shelter and food for insects, birds, and other small creatures. Dead hedges are made from natural materials like fallen branches and clippings, providing a habitat for beetles, spiders, and other beneficial insects that contribute to the health of our gardens. Bug hotels offer safe nesting sites for solitary bees and ladybugs, encouraging a balanced and thriving ecosystem.
Throughout the year, our gardens offer a continuous food supply for wildlife. Flowering plants provide nectar for bees and butterflies in spring and summer, while fruit trees and shrubs offer berries and seeds for birds in autumn and winter. By planning our gardens with biodiversity in mind, we ensure that Old Forest School remains a dynamic and life-filled venue, no matter the season.
Celebrating New Zealand’s Natural Heritage
In New Zealand, our native species are part of our natural heritage and a unique aspect of our environment. By welcoming wildlife back to Old Forest School, we honour that heritage, creating a safe haven for some of our most beloved creatures. The presence of native birds, the delicate work of pollinators, and the playful activity around the wildlife pond make Old Forest School a place where couples and guests can reconnect with the beauty of New Zealand’s environment.
Old Forest School: An Alive and Thriving Venue
Old Forest School isn’t just one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Bay of Plenty; it’s also one of the most alive. Our gardens are a tribute to the resilience of nature, the generosity of our community, and the careful planning that goes into preserving a balanced ecosystem. Couples who celebrate here become part of that story, surrounded by the colours, sounds, and vibrancy of a natural world that’s been lovingly nurtured back to life.
Whether it’s the song of the Tūī, the delicate bloom of a valley dahlia, or the sparkle of dragonflies over the pond, Old Forest School is a place where nature and history intertwine, creating a venue that is as ecologically rich as it is romantically beautiful. This is more than a wedding venue; it’s a living legacy of the valley, a haven for wildlife, and a celebration of New Zealand’s natural heritage.