Welcome to The Castle—a place where history meets the wild beauty of the New Zealand coastline. Perched atop the cliffs of Wai-iti Beach in Taranaki New Plymouth, this stunning venue offers a dreamy, intimate setting for couples who want their love story to unfold against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views, romantic sunsets, and a truly unique, secluded vibe.

Imagine this: the sound of waves gently crashing against the shore, the warm glow of the sun setting over the water, and you, standing hand in hand with the love of your life in one of the most beautiful beachfront venues in Taranaki. That’s what awaits you at The Castle—a place where every corner tells a unqiue story, and every moment feels like pure bliss.

Who Is This Venue For?

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both intimate, luxurious and unique, The Castle in Wai-iti might just be the perfect fit for you.

Picture a peaceful retreat where you can escape the hustle and bustle, surrounded by nature’s beauty and the timeless charm of a historic homestead. It’s a place where couples can truly focus on what matters most—each other.

Designed with boutique weddings in mind, The Castle offers a personalised experience that’s all about intimacy and elegance.

It’s a venue where you can feel the history in every hand-carved beam, yet still enjoy all the modern comforts you’d expect from a luxury retreat.

If you love the idea of celebrating your love story in a place that’s unique and intimate, The Castle Wai-iti is the perfect place for you

Accommodation at The Castle: Stay in Comfort and Style

Imagine spending your wedding day at a place that not only offers a beautiful ceremony and reception space but also gives you and your loved ones a cozy retreat to call home.

With 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, this humble herrtiage sleeps up to 13 guests, The Castle is the kind of place where you can wake up with your best friends and family around you, ready to celebrate.

The bedrooms are thoughtfully designed with luxurious beds, high-quality linens, and views that will take your breath away.

When it’s time to gather for a meal, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a formal dining area, and relaxed living spaces where everyone can come together.

With full heating and substantial furnishings, you’ll feel warm and comfortable no matter the season.

What Makes The Castle Special?

Built in 1928 by renowned Arts & Crafts architect James Chapman-Taylor, The Castle is an iconic masterpiece that captures the spirit of its era.

Constructed almost entirely out of local materials, with hand-adzed exposed beams, custom stonework, and hand-forged hinges, this historic homestead is a testament to craftsmanship and tradition.

It’s a place where every detail has a story, and where time seems to slow down, letting you truly savor each moment of your wedding day.

Imagine exchanging your vows with the vast coastline stretching out beside you and the gentle sound of ocean waves providing the soundtrack. The Castle’s stunning gardens and private courtyard make the perfect setting for an intimate reception, where your guests can mingle under the stars while you slip away for a quiet moment together on the clifftop.

And for those little moments of magic, how about a soak in the garden bath? It’s spacious enough for two (I can vouch for it—a solid 10/10 experience!) and offers a view of the sea and surrounding greenery that’s nothing short of blissful. Or, start your morning with the sweet song of Tui birds as you sip your coffee in the courtyard, reflecting on the unforgettable day ahead.

Why Choose Hannah from Saywell Photography as Your Photographer?

If you’re looking for someone who knows The Castle inside and out, I’d love to be the one to capture the magic of your day.

When I first explored this beautiful venue, I fell in love with its hidden corners, the way the light dances off the stone walls, and the breathtaking views from the clifftops. I’ve photographed everything from candid moments with family and friends to intimate sunset portraits, and I know how to make the most of every angle.

My photography style is all about blending real, spontaneous moments with a modern touch. I pride myself on helping couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, whether that means guiding you through a beautiful portrait or simply capturing the way you naturally interact with each other.

I love getting to know my clients as more than just clients—whether you want to chat about your wedding plans or laugh over our latest online shopping finds, I’m here for all of it.

But it’s not just about the photos—I’m also here to help you with the planning. From crafting a timeline that ensures we catch the perfect golden hour shots to scouting out the best photoshoot locations at The Castle, I’ve got you covered.

I’ll take the time to really listen to what you want for your day, helping you bring your vision to life in a way that feels true to who you are. After all, with so many voices offering input, it’s important to have someone who’s focused on your vision, making sure every detail reflects what matters most to you.

How to Book Your Dream Wedding at The Castle, Wai-iti

Ready to turn your wedding day dreams into reality? Booking your photographer and venue early is key, especially if you’re planning for a popular date during Taranaki, New Plymouths’s wedding season. I’d be honored to help you capture every beautiful moment at The Castle, from the joyful first look to the quiet, tender moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

To explore my photography packages and see how we can create beautiful memories together, click here If you want to learn more about the enchanting venue itself and all it has to offer, click here

FAQs About The Castle and Hosting Your Wedding

What is the capacity for weddings at The Castle?

The Castle is ideal for intimate gatherings, offering a focus on personal connections and attention to detail. It’s the perfect choice for boutique weddings that prioritise a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Can we customize our wedding at The Castle?

Absolutely! Whether you’re dreaming of a classic garden ceremony or a modern celebration on the clifftop, The Castle’s flexibility means you can create the wedding that’s uniquely yours.

What are the best photography spots at The Castle?

There’s no shortage of beautiful spots for photos at The Castle. From the panoramic ocean views atop the cliffs to the lush gardens, private beach access, and the charm of the 1928 stone walls, every part of this venue has something special to offer.

How early should we book our wedding our photographer and venue at The Castle?

For the best chance of securing your preferred date, it’s wise to book at least 12 months in advance—especially if you’re planning for the busy wedding season in Taranaki.

Why The Castle, Wai-iti, is the Best Choice for Your New Plymouth, Taranaki Wedding

There’s a reason why so many couples fall in love with The Castle as soon as they see it:

- Panoramic Views: You’ll be surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in New Zealand.

- Boutique Atmosphere: The Castle’s intimate setting makes it ideal for couples who want a personalised, luxury experience.

- Heritage Charm: With its 1928 stone architecture and historic craftsmanship, The Castle offers a unique, timeless atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.

- Convenient Location: Just a 30-40 minute drive from New Plymouth, you get the best of both worlds—a peaceful, secluded retreat. The nearest local town is Urenui, just a short drive away. This charming small town features a Four Square for your everyday needs, a petrol station, and a few delightful places to eat out.

- Complete Wedding Experience: Host your ceremony, reception, and accommodation all in one place, letting you and your guests enjoy every moment without the hassle of extra travel.

If you’re ready to celebrate your love where history, nature, and luxury come together, let’s make your dream wedding at The Castle a reality. Reach out today, for all your photography needs, I cannot wait to meet you!

Contact: Click here