The Best Time of Year for Your Queenstown Wedding
So you’ve decided to make the trip down to the South Island of New Zealand to say “I do”. Whether you’re flying from across the pond or road tripping over the Crown Range you won't be disappointed when you arrive in the quaint little mountain town nestled at the foot of the Remarkables. If you're after unmatched scenery, luxe estates, charming churches or a ceremony amongst the mountains this destination is for you. All you have to do now is decide when!
Autumn Weddings in Queenstown
Autumn weddings will provide the color palette of your dreams. Picture the white dress amongst the burnt orange leaves, mountains speckled with changing trees and regular venues transformed into scenes of rich red and golds in the backdrop of your photos. From late March to May, Autumn is popular with those that want that extra edge in their imagery, traveling from around the world, couples want the chance to be captured amongst a bright beautiful backdrop. Our favourite for this time of year is Arrowtown. A small historic village that comes to life in this season. Luxe venues including Millbrook Resort with over 650acres of carefully crafted grounds you're bound to find your perfect ceremony spot. Stoneridge estate is another popular choice if old world architecture, gardens and vineyards are more your vibe.
Winter Weddings in Queenstown
In June through to September Queenstown becomes a winter wonderland. Snow capped mountains, fur coats, blue bird skies and a winter sun that is low to the horizon throwing the light in every photographer's dreams. Think Golden hour lighting but for most of the day. If you're brave enough for the cold, a winter wedding is one of Queenstown's best-kept secrets. Days are shorter, but venues are cosier with candlelight and fires to add charm to your magical day. Want the snowy look without the freezing cold? Try looking at some helicopter options during the shoulder months, where you can still catch the snow-capped look without the chill!
Spring Weddings in Queenstown
As the days become longer and the flowers start to peak through the livening landscape, September through to November becomes your time for more saturated images, pops of colour and an artistic playfulness. With the snow caps still present in early spring the contrast in this landscape makes for a beautiful backdrop for your special day. Mid to late spring you’ll find those quintessential New Zealand blooms (Hello Lupin season!). Luxury venues like Rosewood Matakuri offer unique outlooks on the Remarkables (which will still be holding onto that snow at the top!) combined with enough greenery and the blues of Lake Wakatipu, your spring inspired wedding awaits.
Summer Weddings in Queenstown
December through to March brings on those looooong light evenings where the sun doesn't go down until 9pm, so if you want extended daylight shooting hours, magical sunsets and warmer evenings, January and Feb are ideal, especially if you want to avoid those Christmas crowds. The Central Otago sun can be hot and unforgiving in the middle of the day, so careful planning with your photographer ensures you can make the most of the venue and lighting. If you really want to get exclusive, venture out of town a little to venues like Blanket Bay or Peregrine Winery for the extra privacy and luxury packages your day deserves.
Whichever season you choose, you are bound to have a stunning backdrop for your wedding images. With an international airport and direct flights from Auckland, Christchurch, Sydney, the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Melbourne, Queenstown is the ultimate destination at any time of the year. Choose your season and let your creativity run wild. If you're after that editorial edge and intention with your images, you know how to find us.