Wedding Cake Costs in New Zealand (2026)
Wedding cakes in New Zealand cost $300-1,200 depending on size and complexity. Buttercream finishes are most popular, with pavlova and dessert tables offering uniquely Kiwi alternatives.
Updated for 2026
Average cake cost in New Zealand
Range: NZ$300 – NZ$1,200
What you’re paying for
Two-tier buttercream
Serves 50-80 guests
NZ$250 – NZ$500
Three-tier decorated
Buttercream or fondant with details
NZ$400 – NZ$800
Four-tier statement cake
Sugar flowers, painted details
NZ$700 – NZ$1,200
Dessert table or pavlova
Alternative to traditional cake
NZ$200 – NZ$600
How to save on cake
Go with a pavlova tower
Uniquely NZ, visually stunning, and cheaper than a tiered cake. Guests love it.
Use fresh flowers instead of sugar
Ask your florist for cake-safe blooms. Saves $100-300 per tier.
Common questions
Can I have a pavlova instead of a cake?
Absolutely. Tiered pavlova towers are a beloved Kiwi tradition and make a gorgeous centrepiece. They cost $200-400 and serve 60-100 guests.