Born out of a love for the land, Little Wilderness is Auckland’s newest wedding and events venue, with a unique twist. Run by mother and son team, Charmaine Barnett and George Vodanovich, the idea behind Little Wilderness was that it must work hand-in-hand with their passion for rewilding, rejuvenation and replanting of the land.
An off-grid slice of paradise, Little Wilderness springs from 30 acres of land in Kumeū bought by Charmaine 12 years ago. Her vision, to regenerate the native bush while creating a space that serves both as a legacy for her own family to continue, and as green lungs for the local community. Part of the land has been left to regenerate on its own, while also planting hundreds of native trees each year. There’s a stream, orchards, dense bush, and a glasshouse where Charmaine propagates plants under the guidance of her horticulturist daughter. “It’s pretty wild,” says Charmaine. “It’s not manicured for so that we may honour the land by working with, rather than against, it. It’s a regenerative project and an ongoing labour of love.”
Seeing the potential for an eco-friendly events venue, three years ago the dynamic duo launched Little Wilderness, focussing on intimate family and corporate events and weddings for up to 80 people. Only 30 minutes from the CBD, yet feeling like you’re a whole world away upon arrival, Little Wilderness is about unwinding in nature while reconnecting with each other over good food and good music. “We’re all about hosting premium events that offer an authentic experience while also being low-impact to the ecological environment,” says George. It’s achieved by mindful selection and the use of resources while producing minimal waste. While guests are welcome to organise their own vendors, Little Wilderness has a list of recommended suppliers who are simpatico and conscious of reducing the carbon footprint of the events. “We encourage people to be mindful of their inputs and outputs,” says George.
“We don’t allow anything on site that can’t be recycled or isn’t biodegradable – so no balloons, Sellotape, or plastic confetti.” Currently, events are powered by solar panels, while large rain tanks provide the water.
The purpose-built shed which houses most events is contemporary rather than rustic but neutral enough to be personalised. As for the outdoor entertainment areas – from the rocky outcrops to the ‘Gypsy Orchard’ or the long-grass meadow where the sun sets – the land is a photographer’s paradise. The venue has recommended catering partners, but mobile caterers are welcome. Food trucks have been popular for a mini festival vibe, while BYO makes it easy to offer guests their favourite tipple. Soon, wildflower gardens will be able to be picked from to create personalised floral decorations or even bridal bouquets.
“What we’ve found is that people don’t want to hand over moonbeams for one day of celebrations, but they still want to create something beautiful,” says George. “We have proven that you can still have a low-impact event with eco-friendly principals. Your event can be minimalist or can be luxurious and opulent. Whatever you choose, we can help make it original and memorable.”
Photos by PIA Photo & Film & Charlotte Christian Photography
Words —Milly Nolan
