Hire of Facilities for Weddings and Functions

Bookings

Prior bookings are required for all functions, preferably at least one month in advance. Use our on-line booking form or contact us.

Conditions of Hire - Weddings

To assist in planning your wedding ceremony or photography session in the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens, please note the following important information and conditions of hire:

• The Gardens are open 9.00am to 4.00pm daily. A fee for functions continuing after or outside these hours is applicable.
• Vehicles are not permitted on the grassed area of the Gardens. Ample parking space is available in the Visitor Carpark.
• Do not walk into the Garden Beds.
• Plants, lawns and fixtures must not be damaged and must be left clean and tidy. The Hirer will be responsible for any damage caused to such property.
• The Hirer is responsible to ensure that all Gardens Regulations, as displayed, are observed, including the ban on smoking at all times.
• No tents or other structures are permitted without prior arrangements.
• The Volunteer can be hired for the wedding reception. The Hirer may arrange for the use of outside Catering Contractors.
• The Gardens Kookaburra Cafe will be retained for the use of visitors, separate and non-intrusive from the hired area.
• Photographs may be taken within the immediate area of the Visitors Centre, Eucalyptus Lawn, Camellia Lawn, Lord Howe Island Waterfall, Pond, Bush Chapel, Rotunda and/or Theme Gardens.
• Confetti and rice are not permitted. An alternative is petals and bubbles or butterfly releases. Butterfly releases can be ordered through the Gardens.
• Live and pre-recorded music are permitted providing it is not disruptive to other Gardens users. It is advisable to check with Gardens staff prior to booking. Site electricitiy is available.
• The Gardens does not have a licence to supply alcohol, howerver BYO is acceptable.
• If you have any issues, concerns, or difficulties when on site, please see the Caretaker or a member of the horticultural volunteer staff.

Whilst the Gardens are responsible for the safety of visitors, the Hirer must ensure that any contractor they hire, employ or otherwise use other than Gardens staff have the required insurances, including public liability and workers compensation.

Parking

The Gardens has a boom gate controlled carpark for visitors. A parking charge of $4.00 applies for cars, and a charge of $2.00 per passenger for coaches. There is no charge for members of the Bridal Party. Members of the Bridal Party should contact staff from the Kookaburra Cafe when ready to depart the Gardens.

Wedding Fees

A non-refundable deposit of $55.00 is required when finalising a booking.

An additional charge of $80.00 per hour is applicable for every hour or part thereof after 4.00pm.

The Hirer is responsible for the setting up and removal of all equipment and wedding accessories brought into the Gardens.