Just before 4pm on Friday 27 June, a few tropical raindrops fell on the sands of Aroa Beach — a fleeting blessing, perhaps, from the heavens above. Moments later, the skies cleared to reveal a scene full of light and love. Beneath swaying coconut palms and overlooking the crystal-blue shimmer of Aroa Lagoon, Mishka and Hamish stood beneath a white-draped archway adorned with fresh tropical blooms, ready to begin the next chapter of their story at the aptly named Lagoon of Love.
Mishka, originally from South Africa, and Hamish, from Scotland, were born on opposite sides of the world, but fate clearly had plans for them. After eight years together, their love story had found its most joyful chapter yet — surrounded by 32 close friends and family, in a place that already held a special place in their hearts.
“We always talk about how, even though we were born on opposite sides of the world, everything coincidentally lined up in our lives so that we would meet one day,” said Mishka in her vows. “But I no longer think it was due to chance — it was the universe putting you in front of me. Because we were made to be together.
“When I met you eight years ago, you were as bubbly as you are to this day and had the warmest energy around you. It is because of you that my life also became filled with warmth and more joy than I ever thought possible.
“These past years I have watched you grow into the kindest, happiest and most driven person I know. I see the way you bring out the best in those around you and how you would do anything for your friends and family. You have accomplished so much and pushed yourself both physically and mentally — it has been amazing to watch.
“Thank you for reminding me every day of how capable I am. Although at the time I may make a fuss, thank you for always pushing me to be a better person and for holding me accountable. Thank you for making me laugh, and thank you for always standing by my side.”
Looking to the future, she added: “If we are lucky to be blessed with children, I cannot wait to see the father you will be.”
As Harry Styles’ Adore You played gently over the lagoon, the couple marked their vows with a Rarotongan tradition — planting a baby coconut palm, or uto, as a symbol of growth, unity and a life rooted in love. It was a quiet, meaningful moment to begin their married life together.
The celebration that followed was filled with warmth and joy. Guests enjoyed pre-dinner drinks on the resort’s Lagoon Deck, with a live Island String Band providing the perfect tropical soundtrack. Laughter echoed through the palms as a decadent carrot wedding cake was cut, followed by heartfelt speeches, an island-style BBQ feast, and dancing under the stars. Later, the couple shared a final slow dance to Hey Little Baby by Dope Lemon before the party moved on to the resort’s private Latitude 21-30 nightclub.
Choosing Rarotonga was a no-brainer for these two. “We got engaged in Rarotonga in June 2022, so it already held a really special place in our hearts,” says Mishka. “It’s such a beautiful laid-back island with the kindest locals – it just felt right to come full circle and get married where it all began.”
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium ticked all their boxes. “The palm trees and lagoon in the background was exactly what we wanted,” says Mishka. “The resort also offered a great range of wedding packages that we could tailor to our needs, plus plenty of accommodation for our guests.”
Style-wise, this couple nailed the perfect blend of heritage and island vibes. Mishka stunned in a traditional Indian lehenga for the ceremony while Hamish looked dapper in his clan tartan kilt – honouring their roots in the most beautiful way. Being comfortable was key for Mishka, so she switched to a white dress for dancing. Their sage green colour palette felt soft and natural, pairing beautifully with the lush tropical setting.
With guests flying in from New Zealand and the UK, the neutral destination meant everyone could truly relax. “It was so lovely seeing our families and friends connect in such a relaxed setting,” says Mishka. “It felt like a holiday for everyone, not just us!”
And what a holiday it was! The week included a welcome BBQ, a Sea Scooter Turtle Tour and the couple’s incredible honeymoon at Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort. “One of the best experiences we’ve ever had together,” they say.
Mishka’s advice for couples considering a Rarotongan wedding? “Give your guests plenty of notice so they can plan and make a holiday of it. Don’t overbook yourselves – make sure to put aside plenty of time for just the two of you.”
Dream Team
Ceremony Lehenga – MEMSAAB, Durban, South Africa
Reception Dress (Bride’s “Little White Dress”) – Runaway The Label, Australia
Hamish’s Kilt – Nicolson Kiltmakers, Edinburgh, Scotland
Groomsmen Kilts – Gannaway NZ; Highland Etc. Ltd ,Christchurch, NZ
Photographer – Laisa Vakaloloma, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium
