Visas Do I need a visa?
It depends on the passport you are traveling on.
If you are from a visa-waiver country, including the US and UK, you do not need to apply for a Visitor Visa but must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before traveling. The NZeTA can be requested online or through the app, and usually takes up to 72 hours to process.
If you are from a non visa-waiver country, you will need to apply for a Visitor Visa in advance — applications can be completed online through Immigration New Zealand and may require supporting documents.
We recommend checking your entry requirements and applying for a Visitor Visa as soon as possible if you need one!
Entry Requirements
NZeTA
Visitor Visa
Arrival When should I arrive?
If you plan to join us on February 2, we recommend arriving on Waiheke Island by February 1, and in Auckland by January 31. This allows plenty of time to settle in and reach Waiheke Island.
We completely understand if your travel plans only allow you to join us for a day or some of the wedding events!
Length of Stay How long should I stay?
If traveling from abroad, we recommend staying for 7-14 days to make the most of your time in New Zealand. We suggest staying on Waiheke Island for 3-4 nights.
Accommodation Where should I stay?
Waiheke Island offers a range of hotels and holiday homes, known locally as 'baches' — a term for a vacation or beach house and a great option for families or groups traveling together.
Cars & Transport Do I need a car?
We will provide transport to and from all wedding events and any activities we organize on Waiheke Island — guests should plan to arrange their own transport outside of these times.
There are taxis and local buses available on Waiheke Island. You can also rent or bring a car if you prefer to move at your own pace.
Weather What will the weather be like?
February is summer in New Zealand, so imagine warm, sunny days around 22-26°C (72-79°F)! We recommend packing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, beachwear, walking shoes, and a light sweater or jacket for the evenings.
Indian Wedding Traditions What should I expect?
The Haldi and Sangeet are inspired by the colorful pre-wedding traditions of India.
The Haldi is an intimate blessing ceremony — traditionally, loved ones apply a turmeric paste or shower flowers on the couple as a symbol of joy and good wishes.
The Sangeet is a vibrant evening typically filled with music, dancing, live food stations, henna, and cocktails.
Indian Attire I have no idea what to wear — help!
There is absolutely no expectation to wear traditional clothing! If you already own a sari, lehenga, salwar kameez, kurta, or sherwani, or fancy the opportunity to wear one, we would love to see it — but any attire that follows the recommended dress code is equally welcome.
Haldi — We recommend garden party, resort wear, or smart casual attire in light, breathable fabrics. It is customary to wear shades of yellow, orange, pink, white, and other bright hues, but any cheerful color is welcome.
Sangeet — We recommend cocktail attire that is comfortable enough to dance in — bright colors are encouraged.
Wedding & Reception — We recommend semi-formal or black tie optional attire — dresses, jumpsuits, suits, and traditional formalwear. As the wedding and reception will take place at a vineyard, we recommend comfortable footwear for grass and a layer for the evening.
Most importantly, wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and festive!
Haldi Guide
Sangeet Guide
Food What kind of food will be served?
All of our wedding events will feature vegetarian and vegan menus, celebrating seasonal produce from New Zealand alongside flavorful dishes and spices from India. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please indicate them in your reply.
Children & Guests Can I bring children or a plus one?
Your invitation has details regarding children and plus ones. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!
Exploring New Zealand Where should I visit?
If you have extra time, we highly recommend exploring more of New Zealand! We will update this website with travel guides and our favorite places to visit — Waiheke Island happens to be one of them!
Many visitors choose to spend a few days in Auckland and Waiheke Island before continuing on to Rotorua, Taupō, Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Islands or Queenstown in the South Island.
