Why NZ Weddings Just Hit Different

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to witness a New Zealand wedding — especially one rich with Māori traditions — you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say they hit different...

There's a depth, a spirit, and a sense of connection that goes way beyond florals and table settings (though, let’s be honest, the styling is always on point too).

When Tomai and Russell, a beautiful Kiwi couple with hearts the size of Aotearoa, tied the knot at Ancora in Tweed Heads I knew it was going to be one of those weddings. The kind that stays with you. The kind you think about when you're editing at 2 a.m., grinning like a goofball because the emotion is that real.

The Energy of a Māori Wedding

Māori culture brings such a powerful spiritual layer to a wedding day. It’s not just about the couple — it’s about ancestors, Whānau (family), connection, and a deep sense of presence. There’s something grounding and timeless about it all, and you feel it the second you step into the space.

Tomai and Russell honoured these roots throughout their day. From the opening blessings to the Haka that shook the walls (in the best way), every moment was soaked in meaning. I found myself shooting through misty eyes more than once — and I wasn’t alone. Their guests were feeling it.

If you’re curious about what a Haka looks and feels like in a wedding context — imagine an explosion of passion, pride, and raw emotion. It’s not a performance. It’s an offering. It’s a show of love and respect that hits you in the chest. If you haven’t seen one in person yet, trust me: it’ll move you in ways you didn’t expect.

There wasn't only one, but multiple amazing Haka's performed - wrapped up perfectly with Russell's new Son-in-Law performing a one-on-one Haka to his proud new Father. It was totally heart wrenching, and beautiful to watch.

A Coastal Dream

Let’s talk about Ancora for a hot sec. Located in Tweed Heads, it’s this dreamy waterfront spot that manages to be both chill and chic. The way the light hits the water there? Chef’s kiss. The whole vibe was perfect for Tomai and Russell — relaxed yet refined, with room for all the emotion and celebration they brought.

Tomai looked absolutely radiant (seriously, scroll through the photos and try not to fall in love with her energy). Russell — calm, collected, but with this twinkle in his eye that never left all day. Together, they were magic.

The ceremony took place with the soft river breeze in the background, flanked by florals that looked like they’d been plucked straight from a dreamscape. The birds even added a choral lament to the celebration, and we were even with a soft rainy mist - which is Tomairangi's namesake... Can anyone say blessed?!

The energy was electric but grounded — a perfect balance of spiritual and celebratory.

Their film captured so many of those quiet, in-between moments too — the sideways glances, the nervous giggles, the whispered 'I love yous'. You can check out their wedding teaser here if you want to see what I mean. Just grab a tissue first.

Let’s Talk About the Haka

Okay, let me circle back to the Haka real quick because I cannot overstate how powerful it was.

After the formalities and speeches, just as everyone was easing into the reception groove, Tomai and Russell's friends and Whānau stood up. You could feel the shift in the room immediately — everyone knew something big was coming.

And then it began: a full-throttle, from-the-gut Haka - a tribute to their new brother and sister, and a promise of love and protection. It was fierce, proud, and absolutely spine-tingling. Cameras were shaking (literally), guests were wiping away tears, and I was there, wide-eyed behind my lens, trying to keep it together while capturing every frame.

What makes Haka at weddings so special is that it’s so much more than a tradition — it’s a gift. A show of loyalty, strength, and deep emotional resonance. It’s raw and real, and if you’re marrying into a Whānau that brings that to the table, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

Why I Adore Shooting NZ Weddings

As a photographer and filmmaker, I live for authenticity. And that’s why NZ weddings — especially ones that embrace Māori heritage — have such a special place in my heart. They’re not just “pretty” (although, yes, they often are); they’re meaningful.

They’re loud, soft, wild, sacred, joyful, and deeply moving, all in one go.

There’s always this strong thread of connection running through the day. It’s about honouring those who came before, those who are here now, and the generations yet to come. And when you wrap that kind of emotional depth in a celebration of love? Pure gold.

Also, side note: the food is always next level, and the dance floor never disappoints. Just saying. And, after all is said and done, it reminds me of home; Aotearoa - the land of the long white cloud.

Weaving Culture Into Your Day

If you're a Kiwi couple planning a wedding here in Australia (or even back in NZ) and wondering whether or not to incorporate cultural elements into your day — I say go for it. Lean into your roots. Honour your Whānau. Invite tradition in.

You don’t have to do it all. You don’t have to tick cultural boxes just to please people. But when it comes from the heart — when it’s yours — it becomes one of the most unforgettable parts of your story.

And as your photographer and filmmaker, I’m here for all of it. I’ll cry with your aunties, dance barefoot with your cousins, and make sure every emotional, wild, wonderful moment is frozen in time for you to relive forever.

Want to See More?

You can check out more love stories like Tomai and Russell’s over on my Instagram or website, where I’ve collected some of my favourite captures of couples doing things their way.

And if films are more your vibe, my wedding films page is packed with emotional rollercoasters, from heartfelt vows to rowdy dance floors and, yes, more Haka moments that’ll knock your socks off.

Final Thoughts

Tomai and Russell, thank you for trusting me with your day. Your wedding was a masterclass in love, tradition, and community — and I’ll never forget it. Your Haka, your hugs, your hilarious speeches, your huge-hearted guests — all of it. What a privilege.

To all the couples out there dreaming up your big day: If you’re after someone who’ll get just as excited about your traditions as you are, who’ll capture not just the “pretty” but the powerful — I’m your person. Let’s chat.

Planning a wedding filled with love, culture, and soul? I’d love to hear all about it. Drop me a message and let’s create some magic together.