One of the first things couples say when they visit Old Forest School is how surprised they are by the size and spaciousness of our venue. As one of the best wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ, Old Forest School has been thoughtfully laid out to provide a natural, seamless flow between spaces, offering ample room for every moment of your wedding day to unfold beautifully. Each area has been designed with intention, creating a venue that’s as functional as it is picturesque, making Old Forest School truly one of a kind.
Spaciousness that Surprises and Delights
From the moment you arrive at Old Forest School, you can feel the open, airy expanse that defines our property. Couples are often surprised at just how big our venue truly is, with ample room to comfortably host every part of the day. Unlike other wedding venues in Tauranga, Te Puke, or Rotorua, Old Forest School provides spacious, well-designed areas that allow guests to relax, explore, and enjoy the day without ever feeling crowded. Whether it’s mingling in the courtyard, gathering in The Noshery, or exploring the lush gardens and forest surrounds, every space offers room to breathe and enjoy the moment.
Intentionally Designed Spaces with Seamless Flow
The layout of Old Forest School has been intentionally crafted to enhance the natural flow of your wedding day. Each space connects harmoniously to the next, making it easy for guests to move from one area to another. This seamless transition from ceremony to cocktail hour, reception, and evening festivities is one of the things that makes our venue stand out. Couples appreciate how each area feels purposefully placed, creating a journey that feels organic and well thought out. This thoughtful layout ensures your day flows effortlessly, leaving you free to enjoy every moment.
Spaces for Every Part of Your Day
At Old Forest School, every space has been designed to support a different aspect of your wedding day. Our ceremony spaces, from the forested areas to the Little Barn and scenic pond, provide intimate and memorable backdrops for exchanging vows. The Noshery, with its spacious setup and beautiful trestle tables, is perfect for dining and speeches. And of course, the bar, with its vintage “Prescriptions” light box, is an inviting space for guests to relax, enjoy drinks, and make connections.
We’ve even considered areas for guests who may want a quieter spot to relax, providing nooks and seating areas throughout the grounds. Each space at Old Forest School feels purposeful, creating a venue experience that feels both expansive and intimately connected.
A Venue that Feels Both Grand and Intimate
Old Forest School offers couples a unique balance: a grand, spacious venue with all the warmth and charm of a smaller, more intimate setting. Guests can spread out and explore, yet each space feels like it’s just where it should be, creating a sense of connection across the day. For couples looking for wedding venues in Bay of Plenty that offer this rare combination of spaciousness and intimacy, Old Forest School is the perfect choice.
A Truly Unforgettable Experience
The intentionality behind Old Forest School’s layout is one of the things that has made us one of the most loved wedding venues in Bay of Plenty, NZ. Couples often tell us that everything feels perfectly designed and thought out, allowing their day to flow effortlessly. With its spacious layout, well-planned areas, and natural flow, Old Forest School provides a setting that feels both expansive and connected, creating an incredible experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you’re searching for a wedding venue that feels both grand and intimate, where every space is purposefully designed to create an unforgettable day, Old Forest School is ready to exceed your expectations.
Follow this link if you’re ready to download our Wedding Storybook