The Flaxmill - Together Journal

Tucked away in the quiet heart of Canterbury, The Flaxmill blends industrial charm with rural serenity.

Once a wartime flax processing site, this lovingly restored space has been reimagined as a versatile, design-led venue for modern celebrations. With its striking architecture, flexible layout, and a thoughtful mix of history and contemporary comfort, The Flaxmill offers couples a uniquely atmospheric canvas to make their own. We caught up with the team behind the venue to learn more about its story, its standout features, and what makes weddings here feel so special.

Can you tell us a little about the history of The Flaxmill and how it came to be a wedding venue?

Originally built in the 1940s, The Flaxmill was one of several flax processing sites across the South Island, established to address a wartime linen shortage. Post-war, it transitioned into a grain and hay store before being thoughtfully repurposed into the unique venue it is today. The current owners’ parents saw the potential in the building’s bones and lovingly restored it, preserving its raw character while layering in modern details.

How would you describe the atmosphere and aesthetic couples can expect when they get married at The Flaxmill?

There’s a raw, understated elegance to The Flaxmill. The soaring ceilings, original concrete walls, and dramatic steel doors set a striking industrial tone, softened by warm details like the ten-metre-long dried floral installation and pendant lighting in the main hall. The beauty of the space is its flexibility—couples can style it up or down to reflect their own vision.

What types of ceremonies and receptions work particularly well in your space? Are there spots couples naturally gravitate toward?

An outdoor ceremony with the building as your backdrop is always stunning, especially with the soft Canterbury countryside surrounding you. For those who prefer an indoor setting, the main hall—with its clean lines and ambient atmosphere—makes for an equally beautiful, intimate ceremony.

Do you offer exclusive hire, and what’s included when couples book The Flaxmill for their wedding?

Yes, we offer exclusive use, with the option of a single-day hire or a full 2.5-day weekend celebration. Our packages include the use of a commercial kitchen, tables, chairs, glassware, and crockery—and we’re proudly BYO-friendly. There’s also luxury glamping onsite, perfect for turning your wedding into a weekend getaway. For something extra special, couples can hire The Vault—a private whiskey den designed for late-night wind-downs.

How do you support couples through the planning process—from the first enquiry to the big day?

We tailor our support depending on what each couple needs. Whether you’re after full planning and vendor sourcing or just a bit of guidance, we’re here to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Can you share a few standout weddings that have taken place at The Flaxmill? 

A recent favourite was the wedding of former All Black Campbell Johnstone and his partner Ben. They arrived by helicopter, hosted a marquee reception on the lawn, transformed the courtyard into an alfresco dining space, and kept the celebration going with live music and a neon jungle nightclub setup. Guests stayed onsite in glamping tents, waking to coffee carts, breakfast, and even a visit from Mr Whippy. The following day, they hosted a more laid-back celebration with a DJ set—two days of magic.

What kinds of accommodation or amenities are available onsite or nearby for wedding guests?

We can accommodate up to 60 guests in our luxury glamping tents, with room for more if needed, and additional space for motorhomes and caravans. There’s also a charming local motel nearby, and Christchurch is only 40 minutes away.

Are there any signature touches or bespoke experiences that make weddings at The Flaxmill feel truly personal?

Couples love how private and unpretentious the space feels—it becomes entirely theirs for the day. There are no strict style rules or limitations, just a beautiful blank canvas that invites you to create something truly your own. Whether that’s wild and romantic or sleek and refined, The Flaxmill adapts to your story.