Settlers Country Manor Recognised as a Key Filming Location for the Live-Action Minecraft Movie

Settlers Country Manor, a heritage estate located in Waimauku on Auckland’s north-west outskirts, was selected as a filming location for the live-action Minecraft movie. The venue’s participation in the production has been confirmed by Screen Auckland, which highlighted the estate’s architectural character, scale, and operational flexibility.

According to Screen Auckland’s published case study, the production made use of the Manor Arch Hall, a distinctive interior space within the property that provided a vintage setting suitable for key scenes. The hall’s layout and period features allowed the production team to create controlled interior environments while working within a functioning venue.

In addition to interior filming, the production utilised the surrounding grounds and outdoor areas of the estate. Screen Auckland described the property as a 100-year-old heritage estate featuring expansive grounds, landscaped gardens, and versatile indoor-outdoor spaces. These characteristics supported a range of filming needs, including set access, crew movement, and on-site coordination.

Scenes were also filmed within Gamekeepers Restaurant, the venue’s on-site dining space, including sequences featuring actor Jennifer Coolidge. The ability to accommodate filming within an operational hospitality environment required careful scheduling and coordination between the production team and venue staff.

The selection of Settlers Country Manor reflects the growing use of heritage venues in international screen productions filmed in New Zealand. Locations that combine character architecture with practical access and adaptable spaces are increasingly sought after by production companies managing tight schedules and complex technical requirements.

While continuing to operate as a wedding, event, and hospitality venue, Settlers Country Manor also supports commercial filming projects that require structured planning, on-site management, and minimal disruption to surrounding areas. The venue’s involvement in the Minecraft movie adds to its experience working alongside large production crews and meeting professional filming standards.