Conferencing in
New Zealand’s most central location

Nelson is one of the best places in New Zealand for conferences and events. Famous for its sunshine, beaches, mountains, national park, culture and hospitality, Nelson has it all – making it the ideal location to hold a conference, wedding or private function.

At Rutherford Hotel Nelson, it’s our priority to make sure your event – no matter how big or small – goes flawlessly whatever the occasion. We believe that flexibility is the key to the success of any event and our dedicated team will ensure every need is met to perfection.

If you would like more information please contact Rutherford Hotel Nelson events team – we’re here to do the hard work so you and your party can enjoy your stay in our beautiful city.


CONFERENCE Rooms

From intimate occasions and small, private business meetings to a banquet of up to 450 guests or an international conference of 700 delegates, Rutherford Hotel Nelson has a venue to suit your event needs. Our rooms can be configured to theatre-style, classrooms, to board meetings, conferences, gala balls or stunning wedding receptions.

Maitai Room

With its abundance of natural light and access to our stunning outdoor courtyard, The Matai Room is perfect for large banquet dinners, trade events and multi-day conferences,  With its two separate foyers, in-built registration desk, state of the art AV this venue opens up a whole new world of conference and event possibilities. 

Maitai 1

This room, accessed by our spacious Riwaka foyer, is suitable for events up to 400 guests theatre style. It also has access to our outdoor courtyard.

Maitai 2

This room is accessed by the Maitai foyer and is ideal for events up to 300 guests theatre style.

Riwaka Room

With its own bathroom facilities and access to our outdoor courtyard this north facing room is perfect for smaller board meetings or up to 60 guests theatre style.

Waimea / Wairau Room

Perfect for partying, this room has an in-built dance floor in the centre. The Waimea / Wairau Room caters for up to 150 guests in a banquet setting or can be divided into two rooms of 150 guest and 80 guests theatre style.

Heaphy Room

The stately Heaphy Room, with its ample natural light, creates an intimate setting for events of up to 60 guests theatre style.

We understand that organising an event is a big undertaking and one size doesn’t necessarily fit all. We make sure whatever venue you choose at Rutherford Hotel Nelson, the room layout meets your requirements. Contact us to find out more about organising your event, conference or wedding in Nelson.


Conference Facilities

Rutherford Hotel Nelson has the best conference facilities in Nelson – plus it is centrally-located, has plenty of parking and premium accommodation.

We understand it’s important that you remain connected with your business and personal life outside the conference or event, which is why we have WiFi and business centre facilities available at all times.

Our facilities include:

  • A full range of modern audio visual equipment.
  • Comprehensive business centre.
  • Food and beverage planning and catering.
  • Our experienced staff can provide on-site coordination.
  • Plenty of parking for delegates or guests.
  • Wireless broadband connectivity in all function rooms.
  • Ability to cater for between 10 and 700 people.


Food and Beverage

At Rutherford Hotel Nelson, we make sure your guests are served delicious cuisine to help make your occasion a truly memorable one.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson’s experienced chefs are passionate about showcasing the Nelson region’s produce, including fresh seafood and locally-grown fruit and vegetables. Our menus are designed to cater to events of all sizes – from an intimate executive breakfast to a 150-guest wedding or 450 person gala dinner. Our dedicated team makes sure any dietary requirements are met, and we can tailor any menu to suit your specific needs. A minimum spend may be applicable.

If you’d like to know more about how Rutherford Hotel Nelson caters for conferences, events and weddings in Nelson, feel free to get in touch with our event specialists.

Weddings