Lost & Found: A Search & Rescue Love Story at Lake Brunner
Rachel + Joshua
Their Story
Some couples meet on dating apps. Others bump into each other at the hospital coffee cart. But for Joshua and Rachel, fate had something a little more rugged in mind: fluorescent jackets, muddy boots, and radios crackling in the bush.
Both working in healthcare - Rachel a nurse, Joshua a flight paramedic - they separately joined the Greymouth Land Search & Rescue team during a recruitment drive. They noticed each other early on, but it wasn’t until national courses (and the long hours swapping yarns about mountains, maps, and gear) that a spark began to flicker.
Fast-forward, and their wedding at Lake Brunner felt like the perfect reflection of who they are: grounded, adventurous, and happiest with the mountains close by.
The Day
At Moana, the cul-de-sac by the rail bridge was transformed into a lakeside ceremony space. Ashley Cassin led the vows as the lake rippled behind them.
Rachel got ready at Iveagh Bay, with hair by Split Enz Hairstylists ,makeup by Elsie Rose and flowers from Prime Petals. Her gown from Wilkens Bridal was timeless and elegant. Joshua and the lads were close by in Moana, keeping things relaxed until it was time to make their way down to the water’s edge.
Afterwards, the celebrations carried on at the Moana Community Hall. Styled beautifully by The Little Hire Company, it was the perfect setting for a night filled with hearty kai from M.A.S.H Mobile Mess Tent, sweet treats from The Baked Sloth, and a dance floor buzzing thanks to DJ Clint Bourke. With Paddy as MC, laughter and stories filled the room.
The Vibe
Though the heli couldn’t fly, the day didn’t need it - the drama of Lake Brunner, the misty ridgelines, and the closeness of family and friends created all the magic needed. Hannah Gardiner captured it all: the small glances, the big landscapes, and every moment in between.
Rachel & Joshua’s wedding wasn’t just about vows; it was about celebrating resilience, community, and a love story that began with Search & Rescue but found its home right here on the West Coast.