Winter Magic at Sequoia Estate: Celebrate Under the Stars in Taupō

Kia ora friends,

I’ve always believed there’s something truly special about winter in Taupō. The crisp air, the stillness, the way the stars seem to shine just that little bit brighter on a clear night. At Sequoia Estate, winter transforms our space into something straight out of a fairytale -and I’m here to tell you, it’s the perfect time to throw a celebration.

Whether it’s a cosy Mid-Winter Christmas, an elegant Winter Ball, or just an excuse to gather your favourite people for a night of good food, roaring fires, and twinkling lights, winter is your chance to do something a little different. A little magical.

Think: blankets, braziers, and beautiful starry skies

Imagine this… guests arrive to the soft glow of braziers lighting the path, greeted with a warm mulled wine or spiced cider. There are plush blankets draped over chairs, fairy lights strung through the trees, and the comforting scent of woodsmoke in the air. It’s cosy, it’s elegant, and it’s completely unforgettable.

Our marquee space on the Oval is perfect for winter soirées - it can be fully enclosed and beautifully styled for warmth and wow-factor. And if you're after something a little more intimate, the Lodge provides the ideal setting. With its roaring fire, luxe furnishings and newly renovated spaces (including the honeymoon suite!), it’s warm, welcoming, and oh-so-stylish.

Mid-Winter Christmas or a Winter Ball? Why not both!

We’ve seen some absolute stunners here at Sequoia - Mid-Winter Christmas parties complete with full festive feasts and a bit of cheeky Secret Santa fun, right through to black-tie Winter Balls with fire dancers, live music, and guests dressed to the nines.

The cooler months give you full permission to lean into decadence - velvet linens, rich candlelight, bold colours and hearty menus. It’s the season for comfort, creativity, and bringing people together in beautiful ways.

Perfect for private parties or corporate celebrations

Winter’s also a brilliant time to host a team retreat or end-of-financial-year celebration. With exclusive use of the estate, there’s plenty of space to relax, reflect and reconnect. Let us help you create a winter experience that inspires your team or treats your clients to something really special.

We partner with an amazing crew of caterers, stylists and entertainers to bring your winter vision to life - whether that’s a slow-roasted feast, a live jazz trio, or a gin bar under the stars. (Yes, we’ve done it. Yes, it was fabulous.)

Ready to plan your winter escape?

We’ve still got a few dates available this winter - and I’d absolutely love to help you create something magical. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a big celebration, Sequoia Estate is all about creating moments your guests will remember forever.

So let’s light the braziers, wrap up in warm blankets, and toast to the magic of winter.

Warmly,

Tracey