If you ever thought that the venues of old were grander and better built, we’d be inclined to agree, and Tatum, the reopened venue in the Horowhenua district an hour north of Wellington, New Zealand, meets those very expectations.
We were invited to check out this stunning venue, which comprises the restored historic Tatum House (accommodating 60), Tatum Lawn (for up to 200), the Cobham, the restored scout hall (for 150), the Pavilion, with its vaulted ceilings, log fire and cast-iron chandelier (for 200), the Lookout, a boutique event space (for 60), the Dell, an outside event space (for 200), and the Cooksley Corner campfire circle (for 200). There is even quality accommodation for up to 64 guests.
The 17 ha site even has century-old trees planted by the original owners. Major Tatum and his wife Alice, who had built the homestead in 1912 after acquiring the property, were known for their parties. After Major Tatum’s death, the estate was offered to the New Zealand Scouts’ Association as their national HQ, hosting their events from the 1940s to the 1970s. In the 1970s, the property was converted into a convention centre, but it fell into decline until the Wayne Bishop Group bought the site in 2020 and gave it a new lease of life, including the construction of the new 300 m² pavilion.
With the main trunk line passing through the estate, future chartered train services are mooted. Wayne Bishop sees this as merely stage one, with a second stage comprising a retirement village and a golf driving range.
Bishop intends hosting the community at the location, with open-air cinema nights and music events. There will also be an on-site café–restaurant called Jamboree.
On site is head chef Ray Parimathawut and his team, able to create catering options in-house. Personal event stylist Michelle Su can bring weddings and other events to life. There is a purpose-built make-up and hair studio for brides, while the scenery makes for ideal wedding photographs. See tatum.co.nz for more information.
You may also like
