How much do wedding vendors cost in New Zealand?

One of the first questions every couple asks: how much is this all going to cost? Not the venue — that's its own conversation — but the people. The photographer, the florist, the caterer, the celebrant, the planner. The team that makes the day happen.

The honest answer is that it depends — on where in New Zealand you're getting married, how many guests you're feeding, and what matters most to you. But here are realistic ranges based on what vendors on weddingvendors.co.nz are actually charging in 2026.

,500 – ,500 for full-day coverage. Elopement or half-day packages start around ,500. Most photographers include an engagement shoot and an online gallery. Higher-end packages add albums, second shooters, or next-day previews. Queenstown and Central Otago photographers tend to sit at the top of this range.

,000 – ,000 for full-day coverage. Highlight films (3–5 minutes) sit at the lower end. Full cinematic edits, drone footage, and same-day cuts push toward the top. Many couples book a photographer first and add video if the budget allows.

– ,200 including ceremony writing, a rehearsal, and the legal paperwork. Some celebrants offer elopement-specific packages from . Bilingual ceremonies or highly personalised scripts may cost more. Always confirm your celebrant holds a current appointment from the Registrar-General.

,500 – ,000 for a typical package: bridal bouquet, bridesmaids' bouquets, buttonholes, and table arrangements. Costs depend heavily on flower choice and seasonality — peonies in winter will cost more than seasonal natives. Foam-free and locally grown studios are increasingly popular across New Zealand.

– per head for a sit-down meal. Buffet and grazing styles run – per head. Open-fire and shared-table feasts are a growing trend, especially in rural NZ venues. Most caterers include dietary management as standard. Don't forget to factor in bar costs — that's usually quoted separately.

,500 – ,000 depending on the scope. Day-of coordination starts around ,500–,500. Month-of packages sit in the ,500–,000 range. Full-service planning — from engagement to honeymoon — typically costs ,000–,000. For complex or destination weddings, it's often the best money you spend.

– for the bride, including trial. Bridesmaids are usually – each. Prices increase for travel to remote venues. Most artists offer bridal party packages that bring the per-person cost down.

DJs charge –,000 for an evening. Live bands range from ,000 to ,000+ depending on size and travel. Solo musicians or acoustic acts for ceremonies start around –. The difference between a good DJ and a great one is usually about reading the room, not the price tag.

For a 100-guest wedding in New Zealand, vendor costs (excluding the venue) typically land between ,000 and ,000. That's a wide range because every couple prioritises differently — some spend big on photography and skip the planner, others do the opposite.

The best way to get accurate numbers is to enquire directly. Every vendor on weddingvendors.co.nz shows their pricing approach upfront, so you know the ballpark before you get in touch.