Rippon Hall, Wanaka

Rippon Hall sits on top of the Rippon hill on the Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, with views across the vines to Lake Wānaka, out to Ruby Island and up to the Southern Alps. Rippon is one of the pioneering vineyards of Central Otago, farmed by the Mills family for more than a century, and its biodynamic wines all come from this single lakeside vineyard.

The hall seats around 75 to 85 for dinner, with a big window facing the lake and a big open fire for winter. For larger weddings, a covered canopy marquee takes up to 230 seated. It is a dry hire venue, so you bring in the caterer and Rippon pours the wine.

Most couples marry outdoors in the natural amphitheatre beside the hall, with the main hall or marquee ready if the weather turns. Rippon wines are served at every wedding, and the team works with a short list of Otago caterers who quote for food, tables, linen, glassware and staff.

Music in the hall can run until midnight, with the last song by quarter to twelve, and the terrace canopy panels come down at 10pm for noise rules. On the main package the cellar door shuts at 2pm on the day, and full exclusivity costs extra.

There are no rooms on site, so guests stay in and around Wānaka. Ask the team which nearby places they recommend, and book early for summer weekends. Guest transport has to leave by midnight, so plan coaches or shuttles from the start.

The days around the wedding are easy to fill with a private tasting at the Rippon cellar door, by appointment, plus a farm tour, the lake and the mountains. Queenstown Airport is the nearest international airport, about a 60-minute drive to Wānaka over the Crown Range Road or through the Kawarau Gorge.