A live string quartet for weddings, corporate functions and private celebrations across Te Tauihu — refined background music that lets your event speak for itself.
Music that sits behind the moment
The Rōnaki Quartet is Nelson's newest events string quartet, with four professional string players (two violins, viola and cello) whose performing careers have taken them from major orchestras to film sessions across the UK and New Zealand. We found each other, somewhat by chance, right here in Nelson, and quickly discovered a shared love of music that moves and connects.
Our name, Rōnaki, reflects where we started: gathering at Rōnaki House to rehearse and build the sound you'll hear at your event.
Between us, we cover an enormous range of repertoire, from classical favourites to contemporary hits — think Pachelbel's Canon and Vivaldi alongside Ed Sheeran, Adele and Coldplay; timeless standards like "At Last" and "Can't Help Falling In Love"; film and musical moments including "This Is Me," "Beauty And The Beast" and "Under The Sea"; and dancefloor favourites from ABBA to Bruno Mars. Whatever the mood of your day, we can shape the music to fit it.
Ceremony, drinks reception and first dance, arranged to fit your timeline.
Understated live music for functions, launches and client events.
Anniversaries, milestone birthdays and garden parties.
Available for larger-scale projects and as a regular in-residence quartet — get in touch to discuss.
Hear us play
A few short samples from our repertoire.
The quartet
Photo: Leonora Soares
Over 260 pieces, and growing
Classical staples, film & musical theatre, and a deep pop & wedding-favourites list. Don't see something you love — just ask.
Don't see your song? Let us know when you enquire — we're always happy to source new repertoire.
String quartet rates
All prices in NZD, for a standard four-piece string quartet performing within Nelson city. The same hourly rate applies to any type of function — wedding, corporate, or private — get in touch for a quote. The 1-hour option suits events within Nelson and nearby; for bookings further afield, get in touch and we'll advise on timing.
Where we play
Based in Nelson — no travel fee for events within Nelson city.
For events further afield, including Richmond, Māpua, Motueka and Blenheim, a travel fee may apply depending on distance and timing. We work this out with you on a case-by-case basis when you enquire, so let us know your venue and we'll include it in your quote.
The essentials
Booking & deposit
A non-refundable deposit of 30% is required to secure your date. The remaining balance is due 14 days before the event.
Cancellation
Deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel before your balance is due (14 days out), only the deposit is forfeited. Cancellations within 14 days of the event forfeit the full booking fee.
Repertoire requests
Song lists and special requests should be finalised at least 4 weeks before your event. We're happy to source new music where possible.
Space & seating
We ask for a flat performance space plus 4 armless chairs for the quartet, along with a safe, out-of-the-way place to leave our instrument cases and bags for the duration of the event. Let us know your venue layout when you enquire and we can advise on exact space needed.
Outdoor performances
Please provide shade or cover and a flat, stable surface for the quartet and instruments, along with a wet-weather backup plan.
Breaks
For bookings of 2 hours or more, the quartet requires a short break approximately every 60 minutes.
Overtime
If we're asked to play beyond the booked time — for example, a delayed ceremony start — an additional fee applies per extra 30 minutes. Ask us for the current rate.
Travel
Travel within Nelson city is included. A travel fee applies for events outside Nelson — see Booking Area above.
Photos & video
We'd love to see any photos or video from your event — if you're happy to share, we may ask permission to feature them on our website or social media.
Tell us about your event
Send us your date, venue and event type, and we'll get back to you with availability and a quote.
We aim to reply within 2–3 days.