We have a beautiful variety of wedding ceremony locations at Markovina Estate, all unique in their own way, with various benefits and reasons why they are so well loved. Each of them feels like its own world, despite being all contained within our 10-acre Auckland wedding venue. Furthermore, we have won several wedding awards for the diversity of these stunning ceremony locations. However, with so much choice, it can be difficult deciding which ceremony location to make that lifelong commitment. In this blog series, we go through each location one by one and highlight their main features, seasonal changes, as well as the rich history behind the venue and each ceremony space. In this piece, we will be going through the Two Kauri Trees.
Directly visible from our car park, the Two Kauri Trees stand tall side by side, creating a timeless natural archway right beside our main reception area and atrium. This ceremony location blends the beauty of our garden wedding venue with New Zealand’s most iconic native tree. Just envision yourself arriving in style in your bridal car, which pulls up in view of the ceremony location. Your guests hear the wedding ceremony music begin and turn to see you and the bridal party hop out of the limo one by one. You walk down the aisle to get married between these two great trees, with the Markovina pond and jetty behind you.
The light filters between these two trees, illuminating your love and romance as your guests witness the moment. Better yet, as the ceremony nears its conclusion, you slide right over to the location's built-in signing table, a white vintage cast stone table and chair, a charming touch that enhances the natural elegance of your ceremony and its flow. Here, you legally confirm the heartfelt vows you made to your partner before being announced as a married couple for the first time.
The History
Prior to becoming a wedding venue, Markovina Estate was a fully operating vineyard producing wine, sherry, and port. However, as the late Ivan Markovina fell ill, he was no longer able to continue this work, and the Markovina family had to pivot. Flax was planted where the two kauri trees currently stand and sold at the market. As time went on and the number of weddings and functions increased, Rina Markovina wanted something more beautiful in that spot. She decided to plant kauri trees, two of which have now become The Two Kauri Trees ceremony location that has grown to be one of our most popular.
Seasonal Considerations
One of the great benefits of the two kauri trees is that they are evergreen. This means that no matter the time of year you visit the venue, the trees will remain consistently lush and green with leaves all year round. As a result, it’s a popular choice for our winter wedding couples, with a pop of life and colour in those cooler months.
Furthermore, there is some shade offered by the surrounding trees in the late evening. This is only to a portion and not the entire ceremony space, which may be something to consider if you plan on having a lengthy ceremony during the peak summer season.
Other considerations
The location of the two kauri trees is one key benefit that appeals to many couples. Being so close to the car park makes it easy for guests to walk to, especially for those with mobility struggles. Furthermore, it's also very close to the reception area, meaning that post-ceremony, guests don’t need to wander far to find the bar and indoor reception space for canapés and grazing platters of food. This convenience makes it a favourite among couples who want a seamless flow from ceremony to celebration.
Another small factor is the unique signing table beside the two trees. It’s a thoughtful detail that makes it simple for you and your partner to sign the documentation to officially seal your marriage. Furthermore, the table enhances the garden wedding aesthetic that's highlighted by this ceremony space.
Final Thoughts
Located near the centre of our estate, this space perfectly captures the essence of your love beneath the beauty of the New Zealand kauri. If you’d like to check out The Two Kauris and explore all of our other ceremony locations at our Kumeu wedding venue, contact our team to book a viewing at Markovina Estate.
