Snowy Waters - The Old Nurses Home

A Charming Mountain Retreat for Your Intimate Wedding

Nestled on five acres of beautiful, park-like grounds with breathtaking mountain views, Snowy Waters – The Old Nurses Home is the perfect venue for couples dreaming of a relaxed, intimate wedding. Built in 1941, this historic chateau-style property offers a unique and private setting where you and your guests can celebrate together all weekend long. Located in Raetihi, within the scenic Manawatū-Whanganui region, it’s an ideal spot for a destination wedding that feels both secluded and special.

Beautiful Ceremony and Reception Spaces

Imagine exchanging vows outdoors with Mt Ruapehu as your backdrop—Snowy Waters’ expansive grounds make this possible. For your reception, the main lodge offers a warm, rustic open-plan space that includes:

• A cozy lounge area
• A BYO bar space
• A dining room perfect for a banquet-style dinner for up to 40 guests

There’s plenty of room for dancing, and large bifold doors open onto a covered outdoor entertainment area. This space is perfect for alfresco dining or a relaxed cocktail hour and features a BBQ and wood-fired pizza oven—great for creating a fun, casual dining experience your guests will love.

On-Site Accommodation for Up to 60 Guests

One of Snowy Waters’ standout features is its on-site accommodation, allowing you and your guests to stay together and fully enjoy the wedding weekend. When you book exclusive hire, the entire venue is yours, ensuring complete privacy. Accommodation is spread across three charming areas:

• The Old Nurses Home: The main building with 10 guest rooms, including queen, twin, and quad setups, sharing two large bathrooms.
• The Doctors Residence: Connected to the main home, this area has four guest rooms—two with private ensuites—plus its own lounge and kitchen.
• Garden Cabins: Six cozy cabins nestled in the grounds, offering queen, quad, and family rooms for extra guests.

A Flexible, Self-Catering Wedding Experience

Snowy Waters is ideal for couples who want full control over their wedding menu. The venue operates on a self-catering basis, with two fully equipped kitchens ready for you or your caterers to use. The bar is unlicensed, so you’re welcome to bring your own drinks to celebrate your way. Whether you envision a formal seated dinner or a laid-back outdoor BBQ, this flexible setup lets you create a wedding day that truly reflects your style and tastes.