Wedding Catering Costs in New Zealand (2026)
Kiwi wedding catering emphasises fresh, local produce. Expect to pay $80-160 per person for food, with beverage packages adding $30-70 per person on top.
Updated for 2026
Average catering cost in New Zealand
Range: NZ$5,000 – NZ$16,000
What you’re paying for
Cocktail-style
Per person — canapes and food stations
NZ$60 – NZ$100
Buffet dinner
Per person — hot and cold options
NZ$80 – NZ$120
Plated dinner
Per person — 2-3 courses, alternating drop
NZ$90 – NZ$160
Beverage package (4-5 hours)
Per person — NZ wines, beer, and soft drinks
NZ$30 – NZ$70
Hangi or BBQ
Per person — casual outdoor option
NZ$50 – NZ$80
How to save on catering
Lean into NZ wines
NZ produces world-class sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. A local wine package is cheaper and better than imported alternatives.
Try a hangi or spit roast
Casual and celebratory. A hangi or lamb spit roast costs 30-50% less than plated service and is uniquely Kiwi.
Common questions
What is the cheapest catering style in NZ?
BBQ and hangi are the most affordable at $50-80 per person. Cocktail-style is next at $60-100. Plated dinner is the most expensive at $90-160.