Mikayla & Simon
17 January 2026 | Photos by Ryan Watts
What was the vibe you wanted for your wedding day, and how does this reflect you as a couple?
We wanted it to feel... easy. No stress. No drama. Just relaxed and welcoming. Formal enough for guests to feel the novelty of a nice dress or fancy chinos, but casual enough that they could let their hair down.
How did you bring your ceremony and reception spaces to life?
With the help of some amazing Waiheke vendors, who did all the heavy lifting for us, our day came together seamlessly. Our ceremony featured seating for most of our guests, with large wine barrels up front topped with gorgeous pastel floral arrangements. For the reception, all we had to do was print the stationery, and the vendors handled the rest, creating beautifully set tables filled with flowers, candles, and incredible food. The real icing on top wasn't a cake, but a roaming sax player improvising alongside our DJ.
What was your absolute highlight or biggest surprise of the day?
While we spent the next day reliving all the little highlights, looking back now, the whole day has become one big highlight. But if we could relive just one single minute, it would be a simple one - that quiet moment standing together at the bar as brand-new newlyweds before making our entrance into a room filled with everyone we love.
Why was Waiheke Island and Batch Winery the perfect backdrop for your love story?
We love that Waiheke feels like a destination wedding while still being so close to home. When it came to photo spots, our photographer was spoiled for choice. Batch Winery gave us everything in one 360-degree location: lush vines, rolling hills, and sweeping views of the deep blue ocean. (Assuming the sun’s out, you really can’t ask for much more!). We had gone there for lunch one afternoon and were completely sold—stunning views, great food, delicious wine, and such a lovely team. It made choosing our venue an absolute no-brainer.
How was your experience with the Batch Winery team and exploring the property for photos?
Working with the team was an absolute dream. Grace, the Wedding and Event Manager, was incredible—she handled the timeline so seamlessly that any feeling of responsibility was completely lifted, allowing us to just be present and take it all in. That meant we could fully enjoy escaping across the property for photos! The big tree lookout offered stunning Auckland views, the Cellar Door gave us perfect lighting, the vines added a touch of adventure, and the colourful side archway was ideal for something a bit more artistic.
