RIVER RIDGE
Your place of retreat
Tawanui, The Catlins, New Zealand
About River Ridge
Welcome to River Ridge – A Place to Gather, Celebrate, and Reconnect with Nature.
Set among 15 acres of lush grounds beside the sparkling Catlins River, and surrounded by native beech forest and birdlife, River Ridge is a peaceful and versatile destination in the heart of The Catlins.
Whether you're gathering, celebrating, working, or unwinding, River Ridge is the perfect all-in-one venue—designed to help people connect, recharge, and make memories that last.
The Venue
A favourite for weddings, our venue offers stunning outdoor ceremony spaces, a spacious function centre for up to 130 guests, and comfortable on-site accommodation for up to 60 (Dec–Mar) or 50 (Apr–Oct). A fully licensed venue, and an outside bar for larger events for guests enjoying the outdoor space.
River Ridge is more than a wedding venue — it’s also a tranquil setting for conferences, team-building days, wellness retreats, family reunions, milestone celebrations, or simply a restful escape for travellers exploring this extraordinary region.
Stay Your Way
River Ridge offers a peaceful and versatile accommodation experience in the heart of The Catlins. Choose from modern, self-contained units with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and fully equipped kitchenettes—or opt for our cosy cabins with access to shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. For those travelling light or wanting to sleep under the stars, we also offer powered and non-powered camping sites set among tranquil gardens.
Wake up to birdsong, relax with garden views from your balcony or tent, and enjoy amenities like free on-site parking, cook your own catering packs on request, and warm southern hospitality. Whether you’re here to explore, celebrate, or simply unwind—River Ridge is a place to feel right at home.
A lifetime of memories begins here
Surrounded by native forest, rolling ridgelines, and the gentle flow of the Catlins River, River Ridge is a one-of-a-kind destination to begin your forever. With breathtaking outdoor ceremony spaces and a warm, welcoming reception venue, it's perfect for weddings big or small—whether you're dreaming of an intimate gathering or a full celebration with family and friends.
Our all-in-one venue offers on-site accommodation, expansive grounds, and flexible indoor and outdoor spaces—all nestled in one of New Zealand’s most naturally beautiful regions. From riverside photos to shared meals under the stars, River Ridge makes planning your day feel effortless—and unforgettable.
Explore More in The Catlins
River Ridge is nestled in the heart of The Catlins, one of Otago’s most scenic and unspoiled regions. From windswept beaches and lush native forests to hidden lakes, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife encounters, there’s plenty to discover just beyond our doorstep. Whether you're here for a wedding, retreat, or weekend escape, take time to explore the natural wonders that make this part of Aotearoa so special.
