How much does it cost?
Our venue hire fee is $5700.
What’s included in the venue hire?
The venue hire fee is for the use of the venue and grounds for the duration of your event. The venue hire fee also includes all the following, with an equivalent value of nearly $2500 from local companies:
- Reception tables and chairs for up to 145 (more can be arranged)
- White table clothes
- Signing table/chair
- Ceremony pews (14 x 6-8 seater bench seats)
- Wedding Arch (able to be moved to the perfect spot for you)
- Cake table
- Local bus transport for your first 50 guests. We can help you arrange extra bus services.
If required, we have up to three Capri marquees, which can be set up by us on the morning of your day. Hire costs for the marquees can be found here. We offer a 10% discount from the advertised hire fees when used at the Dolphin Bay venue.
When is Dolphin Bay open?
We are open for weddings any day of the year.
What is the maximum capacity at Dolphin Bay?
Our maximum capacity is 200 people (guests and bridal party).
Where can we do our photos?
Dolphin Bay has many different background options for your photos including garden, beach, clifftop, pine forest etc, you won’t need to leave the property unless you have something very unique in mind.
How does catering work?
Dolphin Bay requires you to either bring your own prepared food or hire a professional commercial caterer (and their serving staff) that are mobile and self-contained. See our Catering page for recommended caterers. You will also either need to supply or hire your own plates and glass wear, see our Party Hire page.
Where do we stay?
There is plenty of local accommodation for you and your guests as listed on our Accommodation page. For smaller weddings, accommodation can be found in surrounding bays (from walking distance to less than 20 min driving).
For larger Weddings or when communal accommodation is required there are motels in Kerikeri (35 min) and hotels in Paihia (1 hour).
How does bar/alcohol work?
You purchase and provide your own alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages, glassware and chiller trailer. You must follow our rules regarding responsible alcohol consumption.
When do we come to set up and when do we clean up?
Generally, 10 am the morning of the wedding is the start time for setting up, however by arrangement this can be done the day before the wedding. Clean up can either be done the night of your wedding, by midnight, or the next day by arrangement.
What time are we actually hiring the venue for?
Dolphin Bay will be open from 10am on day of hire. Functions must conclude and all vehicles need to have departed by midnight on the day of the hire.
Is there parking available onsite?
We have parking available for up to 15 cars – this is including the space for your caterers, celebrant, photographers etc. We offer a bus transportation service to our approved accommodations (which is included in the venue hire) for your guests. See our Transport page.
Need help with planning?
Local wedding planner Susi Liddington can work with you to help plan your day, find out more here.
How do we book?
Let us know the date you are wanting to have your wedding and we can let you know availability. To secure your booking we require a deposit of 25%.