Just over one year ago we were extremely fortunate to be the very first couple to have our wedding reception at ‘The Red Barn’. This is a delightfully groovy old style barn, yet recently built so in fine condition, in the glorious sheltered setting of Valley of Peace (Hoon Hay Valley). The lovely countryside drive into the valley (yet so close to town!) leads to a sweeping tree lined drive, complete with alpaca sentries. We knew that we wanted something unique and stylish and this place was just perfect. We arrived to a jazz band entertaining our guests in the sun-drenched courtyard, we then entered an amazing marquee perfectly set up through a huge macrocarpa hedged archway. After dinner we passed along a pathway lined with flares to the party in the barn. The three rooms lent themselves ideally for us to a dancing area, lounging area, and bar area, plus an extra soft lit area with café tables out the back – everyone was happy! We cannot express our thanks enough to Greg and Rachel for their fantastic hospitality in opening up their special place for us to enjoy and their wonderful help to make our dream come true – a truly unique and fabulous night.
Lisa and Richard Sinke, 28/11/08
When we were looking for that exceptionally unique Wedding Venue that would not only make our wedding reception unforgettable and special for both our guests and us, we couldn’t go past the rustic charm of the Valley of Peace Wedding Venue.
We were able to add our own personal touches and mould the venue perfectly for our wedding reception and along the way Greg and Rachael were there for support and advice.
Being on the edge of suburban Christchurch yet in a surrounding that could be mistaken for a somewhere deep in rural New Zealand gave us a very secluded and exclusive wedding reception.
What a fantastic day, what a fantastic venue.
James & Siobhan Marshall 13/02/2010
We were searching for a Venue that was different, that was rustic, could hold at least 100 guests, blank canvas to do what we wanted, somewhere for ceremony and reception to be in one spot, good photo opportunities AND was within budget .....after months of searching we finally found the Valley of Peace which ticked ALL the boxes - I could scarcely believe we had found something that was so perfect for us and from the first visit started dreaming what our wedding day would be like.
On a beautiful February afternoon, without a cloud in the sky, and surrounded by family and friends we had our wedding ceremony on the rustic wooden bridge - followed by our reception inside the Barn. As the sun went down, the effect of the fairylights and the spotlights lighting up the trees was truely magical. There was so many comments from our guests about how spectacular the Valley and the Venue was and what a great time they were having - it was really special to see lots of smiles all day not just from us but also from all our guests.
Special thanks to Rachel and Greg, you guys are superstars, your enthusiasm right from our first visit was outstanding, we really appreciated all your help and assistance - thank you for everything and for your help in making our wedding day so special.
Kind Regards
Brett & Ranae Dodds. 20/02/2010
On the 24th April 2010 we held a very successful 50th Birthday Party. We had 90 guests and there was plenty of room for dancing, chatting and sitting. The functioncentre hosts, Greg & Rachael Graham were extremely helpful with ideas and with the set up of the venue. We have had lots of very positive feedback about both the party in general and the venue. Greg and Rachael were veryaccommodating with our decoration requirements and helped set up extra lighting for our band. I can thoroughly recommend this as a feel good rustic, rural venue.
Thanks again,
Kees & Catherine 24/4/2010