A Personal Memory Of Poronui

“Poronui Lodge is one of the best places in New Zealand to get married…. I wonder if it’s too soon to do it all over again?”

Alaina and Hans chose Poronui for their wedding on 4th March, 2017 and say their magical day was even more special than they anticipated. “Everyone said it was the most beautiful wedding they had ever been to,” Alaina reflected. “A few people even said it was the best. So I’ll take that.”

We caught up with Alaina and Hans to find out exactly what made their wedding so memorable.

Why did you choose Poronui?
We had visited Poronui with Phillip Blackburn, previous Head Chef at Poronui, a few times and I absolutely loved the venue from the beginning. I said to Hans “I want to get married here” and that was two years before we were engaged. I looked at other wedding venues but nowhere compared with the beauty and landscape of Poronui.

What did Poronui contribute to the memories of your wedding day?
First of all by providing the most beautiful setting. But the staff members were all so incredible, professional and helpful, making the day much easier with no hiccups.

What’s your most precious memory?
Getting married! Also, the surprise helicopter ride was pretty amazing.

Do you have a favourite wedding photograph, and where was it taken?
My favourite photo was taken on the ridge, where the helicopter landed. It was incredible.

Did you have any “concerns” about the day beforehand and, if so, how were they overcome?
I was worried about the travelling distance for guests from Taupo. This was easily resolved by hiring a bus. A few people drove to the venue, and none had any issues because Poronui put out direction signs.

Who helped you organise your big day?
Claire, (Poronui’s Event Manager) was our biggest support. She was amazing, always answering my millions of questions, which was great.

We used Bloomin Flowers in Taupo, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. Their attention to detail is impeccable and the whole team were so friendly and welcoming.

Donna Inch from Event Rent was our celebrant, and she delivered a beautiful ceremony. We also hired a lot of equipment from her, which was made super easy.

Krystle Rakatau from Bespoke Photography went over and above to take the most incredible photos – even letting the boys talk her into having a shot at the skeet shooting!

Other than that our parents were our biggest support crew, along with our bridal team and other family all pulling to set up and organise everything exactly as I had planned.

Would you recommend Poronui to other couples?
Actually, I would like to keep it all for myself and not share it with anyone! Seriously… I would have to be honest and tell them it’s one of the best places in New Zealand to get married. So yes I would highly recommend it.