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Ilex Events Ilex Events

A space as beautiful as it’s surroundings

Hidden away from the bustle of the city Ilex stays true to the rich origins and beauty of the breathtaking Christchurch Botanic Gardens. From design through to service, Ilex is passionate about creating unique event experiences with effortless attention to detail. Offering full sensory journeys inspired by our vibrant backdrop, Ilex is renowned for delivering some of Christchurch’s most iconic events.

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Our Ilex Venues

From lavish parties to sit-down dinners and bespoke corporate events, Ilex offers four diverse spaces and additional services to fulfill all your event needs. Our private event spaces differ in their charms and functionality. Designed to complement the nature around us this is a secluded sanctuary in the heart of Christchurch. Whether you want to host drinks under a greenhouse glass-ceiling, dinner by the river, or party in your own tropical hideaway.

Ilex Events 
Space

Ilex Events 
Space

Absorbing the tranquillity of the Avon River views, the Ilex Events Space has floor to ceiling windows that invite natural light into every corner of the room. This stylish, versatile space and private outdoor courtyard have a sense of intimacy and exclusivity, providing guests with a one-of-a-kind Botanic Gardens experience.

  • Private space accommodating up to 130 people for a sit-down function or 180 people for a stand-up event
  • Private outdoor courtyard
  • High-end inbuilt Audio-Visual equipment
  • Dedicated Ilex event manager to organise all arrangements for your function
  • 7am – 12pm:$600
  • 2pm – 6pm:$800
  • 6pm – 12am:$1500
  • Full Day:$3000
Ilex Café

Ilex Café

Nestled below an architecturally inspired canopy of oak tree leaves is the Ilex Café. In the evenings this space is brought to life, transforming into multiple indoor and outdoor entertaining areas. Inside, floor to ceiling windows fill the room with light and views that overlook vast lawns and the luscious palm-filled nursery. Outdoor guests are treated to an extensive outdoor area surrounded by nature, with bar and food stations setting the scene for a lively garden party.

Cuningham & Townend House
  • Private space accommodating up to 120 people for a sit-down function or 180 people for a stand-up event
  • Covered outdoor seating for up to 200 guests
  • Outdoor bar, food stations and coffee cart
  • Dedicated Ilex event manager to organise all arrangements for your function
  • 6pm - 12am:$2000
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Cuningham & Townend House

Cuningham & Townend House

Think champagne and oysters when imagining a function in this stunning heritage structure, because Cuningham House is nothing short of majestic. Built in 1923, it’s the largest house in the Botanic Gardens and also features the largest collection of tropical plants. At the top of an elaborate staircase, a greenhouse spreads across two levels boasting everything from kentia palms, to banana trees and the native nikaus. Although formally known as the Winter Garden, this unique, elegant venue is suitable for events year-round.

Ilex Café
  • Private space accommodating up to 180 people for a stand-up event
  • Exclusive hire after 4:30pm
  • Seasonal Conservatory displays
  • Access to Conservatory and central rose garden for photography
  • Dedicated Ilex event manager to organise all arrangements for your function.
  • After 4:30pm for maximum four hours:$2,500

Ilex Corporate Naturally Unique

Down to the most intricate detail, your dedicated event manager and Ilex team will work with you to create corporate events that are truly unique and tailored to your company needs. With our sophisticated style and tranquil views we specialise in intimate boardroom lunches, multi day conferencing, exhibitions, parties and awards nights

Ilex Corporate Naturally Unique
Ilex Weddings Naturally Beautiful

Ilex Weddings Naturally Beautiful

Founded over 150 years ago, with the planting of a Holm Oak as a symbol of love and marriage, Ilex stays true to these rich origins and beauty of the breathtaking Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Situated at the centre of this world-renowned site, surrounded by majestic trees, exotic flowers and the tranquil Avon River, Ilex’s wedding spaces are a celebration of the nature around us. This is an oasis in the heart of Christchurch. From design through to service, we’re passionate about creating unique wedding experiences with a sense of effortless elegance; a full sensory journey inspired by our vibrant backdrop.