Queenstown
Our Final Stop and Wedding Planning Adventure
Our final destination was Queenstown, and while this isn’t our first visit, it certainly won’t be our last! Queenstown has a magical quality that keeps you coming back for more. The region is rich in Māori history, originally inhabited by the Ngāi Tahu iwi tribe. They refer to Queenstown as Ōtāgo (meaning "place of the sea"), and it holds significant cultural heritage, including stories and traditions that have shaped the area for centuries.
Wedding Preparations
Upon arrival, we checked out the wedding venue, and it was everything we had envisioned! The space felt welcoming and spacious, perfect for guests to mingle while allowing us to have some private moments. After the venue, we went for a wedding cake tasting, still on the hunt for the perfect one!
Next, we checked into our accommodation at the Hilton Queenstown, located on the far side of the lake—a new experience for us. We enjoyed taking the ferry into town each day, which provided a stunning perspective of Queenstown from the water.
Exploring Queenstown
During our time in town, we indulged in some shopping and lunch at our favorite spots, and we made sure to visit the markets, which are a must-see on Saturdays if you’re in Queenstown for the wedding.
In the afternoon, we met with our celebrant, Andy, who will help us make it all official. Excitingly, both Andy and Adam (Daniel's dear friend) will be there to see us tying the knot in 2025!
That evening, we treated ourselves to Sal's Pizza—definitely try the Nonna pizza! Afterward, we took the ferry back to our hotel, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Exploring Bradonia: The Cardrona Bra Fence - BRING A BRA TO PIN WHILE YOU ARE IN NZ!
On our journey, we explored Bradonia, more commonly known for the nearby Cardrona Bra Fence. This quirky landmark has become a beloved attraction and an Instagram-worthy spot. Located along State Highway 6 between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Bra Fence started in 2000 when a local farmer, with a sense of humor, hung up a bra on a fence as a joke. Over the years, the idea caught on, and the fence became adorned with thousands of bras, each contributing to its colorful and playful appearance.
The Cardrona Bra Fence is not only a fun sight but also serves as a symbol of community spirit. Visitors often add their own bras to the fence, many of which carry personal stories and messages. It has become a lighthearted way for people to express themselves and support various causes, including breast cancer awareness. When you visit, bring a bra and pin it to the fence, and make a little donation that can go a long way!
Beyond the fence, Bradonia and its surrounding area are rich in history and natural beauty, with stunning views of the Southern Alps and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you’re stopping to take a picture with the famous bra fence or exploring the scenic landscapes, Bradonia is a must-visit during your Queenstown adventure!
Trip to Arrowtown
Afterward, we made our way back to Arrowtown, a quaint little town with a rich gold rush history. Arrowtown was once a bustling gold mining hub, and it still showcases remnants of its past, including the stories of its Chinese population who played a significant role in the town's development during the gold rush era.
Planning and Thrills
In the following days, we focused on planning our wedding and finalising the small details. Of course, we couldn't resist a cheeky spin on the jetboats, adding some adventure to our trip!
We’re so excited to share not only our special day with you but also the unforgettable moments leading up to it. There are plenty of fun things planned, and we can’t wait!
