Tarureka Estate is tucked away in the majestic Wairarapa

Tarureka Estate provides a truly unique experience for couples seeking their dream wedding venue. With its authentic charm and rustic sensibility, you and your guests are assured an unforgettable wedding weekend. 

Nestled in Featherston, at the Remutaka Range's foothill, Tarureka is a convenient one hour’s drive north of Wellington City. Tarureka Estate is the perfect option for couples exploring the Wellington and Wairarapa region for their ultimate wedding venue.

Voted one of the world’s top 10 barn wedding venues by Bridal Musings, Tarureka Estate spans over four acres of beautifully manicured gardens and 3.8 acres of farmland. On site sit three historic buildings – The Loft Barn, The Homestead and the privately occupied Cottage. The boundary of the Estate is wrapped in native greenery, providing a wonderful sense of escape and ensuring complete privacy throughout your celebratory wedding weekend.

photo: Paul Howell Photography; couple Amy & Jacques

We couldn’t have picked a more perfect wedding venue for our special day. It was the first and only venue we visited. The barn was a stunning setting for both our ceremony and dinner.
— Alison Rudd

Your Idyllic Wedding Weekend

The Loft Barn was constructed in 1868 and still stands proudly 150 years on. You’re unlikely to find a more captivating and historic barn venue anywhere else in New Zealand. After being lovingly restored, many couples choose this unique space to say I do. There is also the option to hold your wedding ceremony outside on the Estate grounds, in one of the three picturesque and private gardens. 

Later in the evening, the second storey of the Loft Barn transforms into a dazzling dining area for up to 120 guests. Adorned with overhanging fairy lights, the soaring chapel-like ceiling creates a magical and romantic atmosphere. The brand-new wood fire burner located on the ground floor, heats the Barn from bottom to top, adding warmth and cosiness to the rustic barn setting.  After dinner, the party transitions downstairs where you and your guests can enjoy the open bar and generous dance floor area.  

Tarureka is the perfect venue for a wedding. The loft is the most beautiful setting if you are getting married inside, and the gardens are just gorgeous if you are planning an outdoor wedding. We opted for the loft which was stunning. But as we had such a perfect winter’s day we were able to have lots of fantastic photos taken around the grounds.
Wairarapa wedding ceremony jpeg

Stunning On-Site Wedding Accommodation

The grand historic Homestead, built in 1870, is just a stone’s throw away from the Loft Barn venue. The Homestead features seven bedrooms that spread out across two expansive storeys and sleeps up to 18 guests. Although the Homestead has been updated with contemporary furnishings for your comfort, none of its rustic appeal has been lost. There is plenty of roaming space, an open-plan living and dining area, superbly equipped kitchen and impressive wrap-around veranda that stretches out onto your own private grass tennis court.

Wedding Packages

Wedding Packages

Discover why Tarureka Estate is right for you

Unique Venue Hire

Looking to hire an exceptional space for your next social gathering or Christmas work party? The Loft Barn is an excellent option for your next corporate or social event. 

When you book the Loft Barn, you and your guests will have full access to the ground floor dance floor and bar area. You will also be able to enjoy Tarureka Estate’s beautiful surrounding grounds.

Your ideal Wairarapa Stay

With people increasingly choosing to holiday closer to home, there has never been a better time to explore the Wairarapa. The Homestead at Tarureka Estate can be booked for your next country retreat. The grand Homestead can accommodate small and larger groups.

Featherston is a one hour’s drive, or 45-minute train journey from Wellington City, making it an ideal weekend getaway.


Although conveniently close to the city, Tarureka Estate feels worlds away; surrounded by private gardens and native bush, there are breathtaking views from every standing. For a relaxing and restorative city break book Tarureka Estate.