How to Plan a Destination Wedding from New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast
- Elope to Sunshine Coast
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in a stunning location just a short flight away, a destination wedding on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland could be the perfect choice. For couples in New Zealand, it offers the best of both worlds: breathtaking beaches, romantic hinterland views, and world-class wedding services - all less than a 3-hour flight from Auckland. With direct flights in and out of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore Airport, it couldn't be any easier!
Planning a wedding overseas may feel daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be seamless and stress-free. Here’s how to make your Sunshine Coast destination wedding a reality from New Zealand.
1. Choose the Right Style of Wedding for your Destination Wedding, From New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast
Think about the type of celebration you want:
Beach wedding: Exchange vows with your toes in the sand and the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
Hinterland elopement: Picture saying your vows overlooking lush valleys and the Glass House Mountains.
Micro wedding: Perfect for those who want a small guest list but a big experience.
The Sunshine Coast has venues to suit every couple—whether you want barefoot romance or timeless elegance.
2. Work with a Local Wedding Planner
When planning from overseas, the most valuable step is finding a Sunshine Coast wedding planner who understands your vision and takes care of the details. From sourcing your celebrant and photographer to styling the ceremony space, a planner ensures everything runs smoothly while you plan from NZ.
At Elope to Sunshine Coast, we specialise in all-inclusive wedding packages for couples travelling from New Zealand. That means you don’t have to spend hours emailing vendors or worrying about locations or time zones - we handle it all for you.
3. Make Travel Part of the Experience
One of the best things about marrying in Australia is that it doubles as a holiday. Here are a few tips to make travel easy:
Flights: Direct flights run regularly from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to Brisbane (just over an hour’s drive to the Sunshine Coast). Or simply fly directly into the Sunshine Coast Airport and be at your accommodation in under 30mins drive.
Accommodation: The Sunshine Coast offers everything from boutique hinterland cottages to luxury beach resorts - perfect for you and your guests.
Guest travel: Some couples gift guests with a list of recommended stays, transport options, and local attractions to make their trip memorable.
Pro tip: Consider working with a travel agent to bundle flights and accommodation for you and your guests.
4. Plan the Legal Side
It’s surprisingly simple for New Zealand couples to legally marry in Australia. You’ll need:
A completed Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form, lodged with your celebrant at least one month before your wedding date.
Valid passports or birth certificates.
Divorce/death certificates if you’ve been married before.
Your wedding planner and celebrant at Elope to Sunshine Coast will guide you through the process so you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.
5. Create a Memorable Experience
The Sunshine Coast isn’t just about the ceremony - it’s about the whole experience. Many Kiwi couples extend their stay to enjoy:
Exploring Noosa’s beaches and national parks.
Wine tasting in the hinterland.
Day trips to Fraser Island or the Glass House Mountains.
Relaxing with spa treatments or sunset cruises.
Think of it as your wedding and honeymoon rolled into one.
6. Keep it Stress-Free with a Package
The easiest way to plan a destination wedding from New Zealand to the Sunshine Coast is to book an all-inclusive package. At Elope to Sunshine Coast, our packages include:
Celebrant
Photographer
Wedding planner and on-the-day coordinator
Styling and décor
Venue options (beach, hinterland, or private estates)
You can also add extras like hair and makeup, accommodation, grazing platters for guests or full planned receptions. The options are endless but with our experience and knowledge we have it all covered for you.
Final Thoughts
A Sunshine Coast destination wedding is closer than you think. With warm weather, stunning scenery, and experienced professionals, it’s an unforgettable way for New Zealand couples to start their married life. By working with a local wedding planner and choosing an all-inclusive package, you can plan your dream wedding from NZ without the stress.
If you’re ready to start planning your Sunshine Coast elopement or micro wedding from New Zealand, get in touch with us today. We’ll make it simple, beautiful, and completely unforgettable.
Contact us here to start your Sunshine Coast wedding journey
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