New Zealand isn’t just a country—it’s a living postcard. From rugged black sand beaches to golden coves kissed by turquoise waves, Aotearoa offers some of the most breathtaking beach locations for wedding photography. Whether you dream of an intimate barefoot ceremony at sunrise or a windswept, cinematic session at sunset, this guide will help you find the perfect beach for your wedding photoshoot.
And because I know planning a wedding is no small feat (you’re already juggling venues, dresses, guest lists, and whether or not to invite your third cousin twice removed), I’ve done the hard work for you. Here are the best beach wedding photography locations in New Zealand, plus pro tips to make your photos truly magical.
1. Piha Beach – The Wild & Dramatic Beauty
📍 Piha Beach, Auckland
Piha isn’t just a beach—it’s an experience. With its striking black sand, towering cliffs, and the iconic Lion Rock standing tall, this spot feels like something out of a fantasy film. If you’re a couple that loves raw, untamed beauty, Piha is calling your name.
💍 Best for: Adventurous couples who love moody, windswept romance. Perfect for those barefoot, boho wedding vibes.
📸 Pro tip: Sunset at Piha is breathtaking, but the waves can be strong—be ready for some wild, dramatic shots! Also, black sand gets HOT, so bring comfy shoes for between shots.
2. Cathedral Cove – The Fairytale Escape
📍 Cathedral Cove, Coromandel
Ever wanted to step into a real-life Narnia? Cathedral Cove, with its natural rock archway and golden sands, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic beach spots. The only catch? You have to hike or boat in—but trust me, the photos are worth it.
💍 Best for: Couples who want a dreamy, storybook-like setting with an intimate, secluded feel.
📸 Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light streaming through the arch. Bring a flowing dress for some seriously romantic movement in your photos.
3. Mount Maunganui Beach – The Golden Classic
📍 Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
Golden sand, rolling waves, and a relaxed coastal town vibe—what’s not to love? “The Mount” is one of NZ’s most famous beaches for a reason. Whether you’re after playful, candid shots or classic, timeless elegance, this location delivers.
💍 Best for: Fun-loving couples who want a mix of beachy, sun-drenched romance and relaxed coastal charm.
📸 Pro tip: Take a short hike up Mount Maunganui for an epic, panoramic wedding shot with the ocean sprawling below. Totally worth it!
4. Tāwharanui Regional Park – The Hidden Gem
📍 Tāwharanui, Auckland
If you love the idea of secluded white-sand beaches, rolling green hills, and zero crowds, Tāwharanui is your dream spot. It’s a hidden paradise just 90 minutes from Auckland, offering untouched natural beauty for intimate, editorial-style wedding portraits.
💍 Best for: Couples who want an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path location that blends beach and countryside.
📸 Pro tip: The grassy meadows here glow golden at sunset—perfect for romantic, sun-kissed shots. Bring a picnic for a relaxed, spontaneous moment between photos!
5. Abel Tasman National Park – The Tropical Wonderland
📍 Abel Tasman, South Island
New Zealand’s very own tropical paradise! Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It’s like stepping into a dream, where every corner looks like it belongs in a travel magazine.
💍 Best for: Laid-back, nature-loving couples who want a blend of beach, forest, and adventure.
📸 Pro tip: Want something extra special? Book a kayak or water taxi to reach one of the park’s secluded coves for ultra-private wedding portraits.
6. Ninety Mile Beach – The Endless Horizon
📍 Ninety Mile Beach, Northland
This isn’t just any beach—it’s a highway. Yes, really! This vast stretch of sand seems to go on forever, with endless ocean views and towering sand dunes that add an otherworldly touch to your wedding photos.
💍 Best for: Couples who want wide, expansive shots with an epic, cinematic feel.
📸 Pro tip: Consider a 4WD adventure here—it makes for unique, spontaneous shots (plus, it’s just plain fun!). Sunset here is magical, with golden light stretching as far as the eye can see.
7. Kaikōura Beach – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
📍 Kaikōura, South Island
Where else can you have snow-capped mountains AND the ocean in your wedding photos? Kaikōura is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, offering an incredible mix of land and sea. Oh, and don’t be surprised if a seal or two photobombs your shoot!
💍 Best for: Couples who love unique, jaw-dropping scenery that showcases New Zealand’s diverse beauty.
📸 Pro tip: Shoot at sunrise to see the first light hitting the mountains—it’s pure magic.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Beach Wedding Photography in NZ
🟢 What is the best time for a beach wedding photoshoot in New Zealand?
Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) offers the best light. Summer is stunning, but spring and autumn provide softer light and fewer crowds.
🟢 Do we need a permit for wedding photography at these beaches?
Most public beaches don’t require a permit, but national parks (like Abel Tasman) may have restrictions. Always check in advance!
🟢 What should we wear for a beach wedding shoot?
Flowy fabrics look stunning in the breeze. Avoid stiff, heavy materials and opt for barefoot elegance. If you’re on black sand, bring sandals—it gets HOT.
Final Thoughts – Which Beach Tells Your Love Story?
From the moody black sands of Piha to the golden glow of Abel Tasman, New Zealand’s beaches offer a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for your wedding photography. Whether you’re dreaming of a wild adventure or an intimate seaside moment, the perfect location is waiting for you.
And if you need someone to capture all the magic? That’s where I come in.
📸 Check out my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Explore my wedding photography packages: Photography Packages
📩 Let’s make your dream wedding shoot happen: Contact Me
Your love story is unique—let’s capture it in a way that feels authentic, unforgettable, and truly YOU. 💕
