The Waterlily Gardens

27/08/2026

Emma & Liam - 27.09.2025 💕

Photos by Misi Chan

12/08/2026

Simon and Alanah - 5.09.2025 💕

Photos by .photography

29/07/2026

Larissa & Brett - 20.09.2025 💕

Photos by

24/05/2026

Did you know we have two onsite cottages you can come and stay in for a cosy winter getaway?
Our Lotus Cottage (sleeps 2) and Lilypad Cottage (sleeps 4) are private, fully self-contained, and have wood burners to keep you nice and toasty through the cooler months.
One of the best parts about staying in the off-season is getting to experience The Waterlily Gardens when it’s quiet, peaceful and the gardens all to yourself.
Whether you’re after a romantic weekend away, a catch-up with friends, or just an excuse to slow down for a couple of days, the cottages are such a special little escape.
Both cottages are available on Airbnb this winter.

19/05/2026

We are looking for our next super star chef!

The Waterlily Gardens is one of Waikato’s most unique venues, hosting beautiful weddings and special events throughout the season. We are looking for a talented and reliable Chef, who will fit in with our fun, hardworking team culture to join our team for the upcoming wedding season (September-May).
This is a casual position, generally working two days per event week — a prep day and an event day.

If you love hospitality, weddings, and creating memorable food experiences, we’d love to hear from you, for more information and to apply for the position, please contact Tracey or Cath at [email protected].

10/05/2026

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mums and mother figures we celebrated with today at our Mother’s Day High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens. Thank you so much to everyone who joined us for such a beautiful day. A big thank you to my own mum, who truly is the best mum ever! I’m so lucky to do this alongside you.
Huge thanks as well to The Photobooth Lady for being here all day capturing gorgeous snaps and special memories for everyone.
We loved celebrating with you all!

29/04/2026

And just like that, the 2025/2026 wedding season is done. Unforgettable and pure magic. Our couples, our vendor partners and our staff, cheers to you 🥂

18/04/2026

Only 3 weeks to go until Mother's Day and we’re so excited to be partnering with Anmea, The Photobooth Lady at this year’s Mother’s Day High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens.
She’ll be here on the day, and you'll be able to snap some gorgeous photos of you and the fab ladies in your life!
Tables are filling up quick so make sure to book and don't miss out!

Treat mum this Mothers Day with High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens

06/04/2026

Since opening to the public in 1954, The Waterlily Gardens has been part of so many special memories. It’s rich history is something we are incredibly proud of, and we love hearing stories and seeing photos from years gone by.
This lovely photo was shared by one of our awesome vendor partners, Siobahn from , of her grandparents, Paeroa locals, Tom and Barbara Carden, visiting the gardens in 2019 when the café was still open. How the patio has changed! We’re happy to say the palm they generously gifted behind them is still standing proudly in our main lawn garden today.
Do you have memories or photos from your time at The Waterlily Gardens? We’d love to see them.