Nelson's most unique wedding venue
“Styled by local artist John Gozney in a captivating grotto motif — a reception room unlike anywhere else in the Nelson region.”
Nestled just minutes from Mapua, The Playhouse is a venue with genuine, irreplaceable character. The reception room wraps your guests in an intimate grotto atmosphere — hand-crafted stonework, warm lighting, and a stage ready for live music or heartfelt speeches. Step outside and you'll find beautiful garden grounds with wooden and stone tables, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or an outdoor ceremony under the Nelson sky.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a celebration of up to 120 seated guests (or 180 in cocktail style), our team will help you shape every detail to your vision. And with free venue hire available April through November, The Playhouse is as generous as it is beautiful.
Unique grotto styling by local artist John Gozney, with a stage, dance floor, and intimate atmosphere unlike any other venue in the region.
Beautiful garden grounds with wooden and stone tables — ideal for pre-dinner drinks, garden ceremonies, or an extended summer celebration.
Menus crafted and tailored to your day — from sit-down banquets to cocktail grazing. We work with you to match your taste and budget.
Full licensed bar service throughout your event. BYO options are also available — we'll work with you on the arrangement that suits your day.
Our in-house stage hosts live music and bands with ease. Bring your own performers, book a DJ, or ask us about our recommended local musicians.
No venue cost from April through November. Book The Playhouse for your wedding, birthday, or function without the venue hire fee.
Every wedding at The Playhouse is unique. Get in touch and we'll tailor a package to suit your vision and budget — no two celebrations here are ever the same.
“The Playhouse was the perfect location for our wedding reception! Nic was exceptionally helpful right from the initial planning, to setting up all our decorations on the day. The food was amazing with generous portions, and many of our guests commented on how attentive the staff was. We would definitely recommend this venue for a wedding or other event — thank you so much to Nic, Manu and the rest of the brilliant team.”
“This has to be one of the best places to go for a perfect wedding — where the owners have pure passion for their job. Amazing food, amazing venue, amazing staff. Nick and Manu, what an amazing time you gave my daughter and son-in-law Sammie and Dean and all their friends and family at the wedding of the year!”
“Nic and Manu did an absolutely amazing job. The food was delicious and the communication through the months leading up was very good. Highly recommend The Playhouse for your future wedding — such a beautiful place overall!”
| Seated dining | Up to 120 guests |
|---|---|
| Cocktail style | Up to 180 guests |
| Ceremony | Available on request |
| Venue hire fee | Free April – November |
| Catering | In-house, menus available |
| Bar | Full bar service |
All bookings subject to availability. Contact us to check your date.