Real wedding - Romance at Waihōanga

Hazel and Zach were married amongst the gorgeous natural surroundings at Waihōanga River Retreat. A wonderful celebration combined with a wee get away, a breather form everyones’ busy lives. Stunning images thanks to the talented Mel Waite Photography. Read on as Zach and Hazel share a little about their story and special day.

How romantic is this? Gorgeous river setting in Kāpiti, on a perfect wedding day. A gentle kiss with the sunsetting behind them, and lens flare to die for. Image by talented Mel Waite.

How and where did you meet?

By chance late one autumn evening in an Auckland bar. Some mutual friends made the introduction and the friendship was sparked. Drawn together by Hazel’s radiant smile and Zach’s mysterious brooding, conversation came easily as laughs were had. Once this conversation started, it never seemed to stop.

Stunning wedding couple Hazel and Zach. Lighting and lens flare to die for at the Ōtaki River, Waihōanga Retreat. Images by Mel Waite.

When did you fall for each other?

It wasn’t until a few years later when Hazel moved to Wellington that our friendship transitioned to courtship. Spending an increasing amount of time together, the falling was fast and reached a peak where a late night walk, a short swim and a little wine led to a first kiss.

Where and how did you decide you were going to get hitched?

After four glorious years of an often idyllic, other times chaotic life, we felt two people could never have clicked better. Hazel began to show signs of impatience with jokes and jibes, little did she know that Zach had something gold burning a hole in his pocket.

Finally with a chance to get out for a walk, we found our way to the beautiful Belmont Park, where surrounded by trees, Zach asked the question and Hazel said yes. Overwhelmed with excitement, we made the decision to not spend a lot of time in the waiting room of engagement and got to planning our big day that very evening.

About your wedding day… What did you always envisage for your wedding day celebrations?

Since we’re so similar, planning a wedding was smooth sailing. We both envisioned a day surrounded by our families, a simple ceremony and good food. We wanted it to be an opportunity for everyone to escape their busy lives for a short while and help us celebrate our love. It also provided a great chance for our families to get to know each other a little better.

Did you have any special features at your wedding?
Waihōanga River Lodge offered some quirky features which we loved, there was a yurt that Hazel and her family used to prepare for the big event and glamping tents that added to the authentic getaway feel.

What was your favourite part of the day, what will you always remember from the day?
Watching our families work together to help create a beautiful space for us to celebrate our love for each other. The overwhelming butterflies that filled us when getting ready for the ceremony, followed by finally coming together under the archway, ready for our next adventure together.