The high-profile Kiwi sports stars are believed to have tied the knot at The Olive Grove in Wanaka this afternoon, with guests, including All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, spotted arriving at the venue by bus and yellow taxis from 2pm. Earlier in the week, suspicion was piqued when a large marquee was erected and tight security put in place.
A pre-wedding party was reportedly held at the Rippon vineyard near the wedding venue on Friday night, and All Black Ben Smith was said to have visited Richie, 36, at his Wanaka holiday home on Saturday morning, where security guards were also stationed.
Set on the edge of stunning Lake Wanaka, The Olive Grove is a secluded venue surrounded by majestic alpine views. It’s an area close to the couple’s hearts. It’s where Richie popped the question just over a year ago.
Christchurch-based Richie and Gemma have been together for four years. Gemma, 26, has told how she first met the All Black great at a function, before he contacted her on Facebook.
She recently appeared on Aussie reality TV show Say Yes to the Dress, where she tried a number of dresses on at a Sydney bridal store. Opening up about wedding planning with her beau, she says, “We talk about everything and we’re really happy. It seems so easy because I just say, ‘How about we do this?’ and he says, ‘Great idea’, and we’ll lock it in.
Gemma appeared on Say Yes To The Dress in November.
“I think because of what we do, you have to make decisions under pressure and you have to be able to know what you want.
“He’s a typical male. He said, ‘I’m happy if you’re happy’ – which is great. I’ve given him some jobs which he is happy to go away and do.
“It’s what you make of it and I don’t want it to be stressful. I want to look back and say this has been a great experience.”
Viewers were left in suspense as to which frock she went for. But one thing is certain, Gemma’s sure to make one beautiful bride.
The sporting stars announced their engagement in January 2016.
