How was your experience planning your wedding?
We loved the planning process and it all went smoothly. The Duke’s dedicated wedding planner was always happy to help and they really went the extra mile for us. The Duke hosts lots of weddings and run a seamless operation. The Duke were very helpful with their vendor recommendations and it gave us one less thing to worry about.
What drew you to choose the Duke as your wedding destination?
We met at Otago Uni when we were both 18 and got engaged in Russell. It’s always going to be a special place for us but we also wanted our guests to have somewhere amazing to spend the weekend. Russell was just perfect as you have everything you need for a memorable weekend: a picture-perfect wharf, golden sand and swimming at Long Beach, great dining and accommodation options and all the amazing history. We had guests coming from near and far and they all loved the location and the hotel.
How was the food?
Following our service, our guests had canapes on The Duke veranda overlooking the water. We then moved inside for a 3 course meal followed by lots of cake! We got lots of comments on the delicious menu.
How was your wedding day at The Duke?
We loved all the history of the Hotel and the fabulous renovations and restoration work that has gone into it over the last few years. The waterfront location is one of a kind and the food is excellent.
We got married at Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest church, which still has bullet holes from the Maori Wars. Russell is such a quaint, picturesque town and everything is in walking distance. Having the sunset over the water while your reception kicks off is pretty special. We love any opportunity to go back to The Duke and Russel and highly recommend it as a wedding venue.
