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Michelle & Sam’s Waipuna Estate Wedding | Canterbury Bride Magazine Cover

Updated: Sep 7, 2025


A summer wedding at Waipuna Estate with helicopter views over Lyttelton Harbour, featured on the cover of Canterbury Bride magazine.


Canterbury Bride Magazine Cover by Koru Photography
Canterbury Bride Magazine Cover by Koru Photography


The Wedding Morning..


The day began at Waipuna Estate in Tai Tapu, with the summer sun spilling across the hills. In the bridal suite, Michelle opened a handwritten letter from Sam, while in another room Sam read his letter from her. Both took the time to quietly sit with their words before the excitement of the day unfolded.

Michelle then shared a first look with her bridesmaids and mum, who were waiting eagerly to see her in her gown — a custom vision brought to life with the help of Paperswan Bride. Their reactions were filled with emotion, laughter, and joy, setting the tone for the hours to come.




A Ceremony Filled With Laughter And Tears


Guests arrived by bus, greeted by the sweeping views of the Canterbury hills. The ceremony, led by celebrant Sean Joyce, was heartfelt and full of laughter. Michelle and Sam’s personal vows had everyone smiling through tears. Michelle later shared that her favourite part of the day was seeing Sam in tears as she walked down the aisle — a moment she’ll never forget.

Confetti showered down as the newlyweds kissed, followed by congratulations, champagne, and a grazing table that kept everyone mingling.



Flying High — Helicopter Adventure to Mount Herbert


Soon after, the couple slipped away with the videographer and myself for a helicopter ride to Mount Herbert. From above, the expanse of Lyttelton Harbour stretched out in shades of blue and gold. At the summit, they shared a picnic before we captured portraits in the wind and light — one of which would later be chosen for the cover of Canterbury Bride magazine.



Celebrations at Waipuna Estate


Back at Waipuna, the bridal party joined in for champagne and more photos before the evening’s reception began. The night was filled with laughter, speeches, and plenty of happy tears. Between dinner and dessert, Michelle surprised everyone with a second dress and a fresh hairstyle, ready for the dance floor.




Sunset Portraits and Dancing into the Night


As the sun dipped low, we returned to the hilltops for more portraits in the wild Canterbury wind, with the sky glowing gold behind them. Back at the venue, the evening carried on with their first dance, a sparkler exit, and endless dancing under the stars.



If you’re planning your own Christchurch wedding and looking for inspiration, Waipuna Estate is the perfect blend of sweeping landscapes and warm celebration spaces — and I would love to be your Christchurch wedding photographer!



About Waipuna Estate


Waipuna Estate sits in the Tai Tapu hills, surrounded by sweeping views of the Canterbury Plains and Port Hills. The venue hosts weddings, celebrations, and private events, and can cater for up to 120 guests. With on-site accommodation, a spacious bridal suite, and indoor and outdoor areas designed to flow seamlessly, it offers couples the chance to celebrate in one place from morning to night. For those looking to add a little adventure, Waipuna also has the option to fly by helicopter directly from the property — making it easy to capture portraits high above Lyttelton Harbour or the Port Hills.



If you’re planning your own Christchurch wedding, I’d love to hear from you. Contact me here




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