Cossars Wineshed
If you’re dreaming of a relaxed countryside wedding near Christchurch, Cossars Wineshed is one of those venues that instantly feels special. Tucked away in the peaceful rural area of Tai Tapu, just about 20 minutes from the city, the venue offers vineyard views, beautiful gardens and rustic architecture that create a wedding setting that feels both intimate and romantic. As wedding photographers, Cossars Wineshed is genuinely one of our favourite Christchurch wedding venues. The combination of vines, olive trees, lavender and terracotta textures gives the venue a beautiful European feel right here in the heart of New Zealand.
It’s the kind of place where the whole wedding day flows naturally. Couples can have their ceremony, drinks, portraits and reception all within the same property, meaning the day stays relaxed and guests can truly enjoy the celebration. If you’re considering getting married at Cossars Wineshed, here’s what a wedding here looks like — from ceremony locations and reception spaces to photography opportunities around the property.
The dining hall can seat around 110 guests for a seated reception, making it ideal for medium-sized weddings. Next to the dining hall is the beautifully restored barn, which is often used for dancing or the buffet later in the evening.
One thing we would absolutely love to see more couples do here is an alfresco dinner in the courtyard. With the olive trees, lavender and festoon lights overhead, the courtyard has such a natural European atmosphere — it would be the most incredible setting for long tables, candles and a warm summer evening celebration. It’s the kind of space that could easily feel like a vineyard wedding in Tuscany, but right here in Canterbury.
FAQ'S
Yes — Cossars Wineshed is a boutique wedding venue near Christchurch that offers both ceremony and reception spaces on site, with gorgeous outdoor and indoor options for your big day.
Cossars Wineshed is located at 29 Cossars Road, Tai Tapu, about a 20‑minute drive from central Christchurch.
There are multiple wedding ceremony options at Cossars, including:
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A clearing amongst the grapevines
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The lush lawn next to the courtyard overlooking vines, roses and lavender
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The courtyard itself in front of the barn doors.
The elegant French‑style reception hall can seat up to around 100–110 guests and the outdoor spaces provide flexibility for larger celebrations.
Couples love Cossars for its French‑inspired rustic charm, vineyard setting, limestone courtyard, terracotta tiled floors, high timber ceilings, and beautiful garden backdrops. The venue’s versatile spaces make it ideal for both ceremony and reception in one location.
Yes — the entire property is available for photos, including grapevines, lawn areas, garden corners, olive trees and the courtyard, offering a variety of scenic backdrops. A quick 5-minute drive will take you to a stunning field with views over Christchurch (available on request).
Cossars works with a range of experienced caterers offering everything from BBQ options and seasonal menus to bespoke sit‑down feasts, so couples have a choice of food styles for their wedding reception.
Yes — in addition to outdoor ceremony areas and the reception hall, the renovated barn space with recycled rimu floors can be used for a wet‑weather ceremony, an extra social area after dinner, or as a dance/entertainment space.
Wedding venue hire at Cossars Wineshed varies by season and guest numbers. Prices start at around $2,000 for a winter wedding with up to 69 guests and $4,000 for a summer wedding of the same size. Larger weddings or peak summer dates are slightly higher, with prices increasing for over 70 guests.
These fees cover venue hire only — catering, beverages, and extras are additional. Because pricing changes by season and year, it’s best to talk to the Cossars team for a detailed quote tailored to your wedding day.
