Just Us. Just Love. Just Perfect
A bespoke elopement experience at Songbird Retreat.
Hi, we’re dean and helen…
……and we’d love to share our secret garden with you!
Songbird Retreat is a private, peaceful venue where intimate ceremonies become magical, memorable moments. Our gardens, rose-lined walkways, and eucalyptus groves provide the perfect backdrop for your vows.
Your love story deserves a moment that feels just like you.
Photo by Kate Little Photography, Leigh
Elopements Made Simple & Beautiful
Our elopement offering is designed for couples who want:
A private, intimate ceremony in a stunning garden
Flexibility to bring your own celebrant, photographer, and vendors
A stress-free, joyful planning experience
What’s Included:
3 hours exclusive venue use for ceremony and photos
Ceremony arch, signing table, and chair
Guest seating for witnesses
Rain backup: clear-roof marquee (Oct–Apr)
Onsite toilets
Pricing:
Sunday afternoons: $2,995
Midweek: $1,995
Optional Luxury Add-ons:
Overnight stay at our charming Songbird Cottage: $795 (subject to availability)
Curated floral styling for ceremony arch and signing table
Champagne picnic for two in the gardens after your ceremony
Professional hair & makeup partner recommendations for a complete day-of experience
Shaan and David, 2025
“Moments Couples Remember
“The rose-lined walkway, the eucalyptus tree photos, and Helen’s care made our day magical. The entire property is stunning — just perfect for our intimate celebration.”
– Shaan & David
Your love story deserves a day that feels just like you.”
photo by Kate Little Photography, Leigh
photo by Kate Little Photography, Leigh
Shaan & david share their story
David and I met in Matakana 14.5 years ago at a music festival. He was from England, here on a tourist visa. My friend was attracted to his, and before we knew it, we were all dancing. David and I met up about a year later for a gym workout. That turned into lunch at the beach, dinner at a restaurant and then breakfast the next morning. We’ve been together ever since.
After 13.5 years of being together, we decided to get married. We found Songbird Retreat online and as soon as we visited the venue we fell in love with the stunning, expansive grounds and especially the rose-lined walkway. The surroundings are breathtaking and the songbird magical.
We took advantage of photos in the eucalyptus tree that envelops you, for a really intimate moment. Photo opportunities are absolutely everywhere. Our only wish was that we had a big wedding to take advantage of all the grounds because the entire property is stunning.
Our wedding was very small and intimate and the area near the upper platform was just perfect for us. We were able to decorate the wooden arch and take advantage of the beautiful views.
Helen, our host, was just delightful and simply incredible to work with from the beginning. She bent over backwards to help make our day amazing. Communication was prompt and responsive and all the small details were taken care of for us. If you want a host that is generous and warm, Helen is the person for you. If you want a venue that is outdoor, exquisite and hidden away from the rest of the world, Songbird Retreat is just perfect.
Our peaceful surroundings and intimate setting create the perfect backdrop for heartfelt vows and timeless memories.
If you're looking for a beautiful space to say "I do" in a relaxed, private atmosphere, we'd be honoured to host you.
Your elopement Journey Begins Here!
Take the next step toward a private celebration that reflects who you are and what matters most.
Book Your Discovery call
Your discovery call is the best way to explore your elopement options, talk through pricing, inclusions, and custom touches, and see if Songbird Retreat feels like home for your day. There’s no sales pressure — just a relaxed conversation about your vision.
Available times: Monday evenings or by appointment.
[Book Your Discovery Call]
If Songbird seems a fit for you, we will invite you to a tour.
Next available tours: Sunday afternoons or by appointment.
Let’s talk first about what matters most to you and see if Songbird feels right.