First Dance Song Ideas for Kiwi Weddings – Romantic & Unique Picks

Jul 01, 2025

Your first dance is one of the most memorable moments of your wedding — it’s the first time you hit the dancefloor as a married couple, with all your friends and whānau watching. At New Zealand DJ Collective, we know how important this moment is. That’s why we’ve curated a list of romantic and unique first dance songs perfect for Kiwi couples planning their dream wedding in Aotearoa.

Whether you’re after something classic, modern, or totally unexpected, this guide will help you find the perfect track to kick off the party in style.

Love was meant to be synonymous with happiness

Why the Right First Dance Song Matters

Your first dance sets the tone for the rest of the evening — it reflects your story as a couple and sets the vibe for the dancefloor that follows. Choosing a song that resonates with you both makes the moment feel authentic and unforgettable.

Plus, many couples in New Zealand are now opting for songs that aren’t overused, giving their wedding that personal and fresh feel. The key is to find something that feels like you — romantic, meaningful, and maybe even a bit unexpected.

Gorgeous bride and stylish groom dancing under golden confetti at wedding reception. Happy wedding couple performing first dance in restaurant. Romantic moments

Romantic & Unique First Dance Song Ideas for NZ Weddings

💍 Modern Love Songs for Kiwi Couples
These tracks are heartfelt, fresh, and full of emotion — perfect for contemporary couples:

Ben Platt – “Grow As We Go”
Lorde – “Buzzcut Season” (acoustic cover)
Six60 – “Rivers” (a nod to homegrown music with real emotion)
Dermot Kennedy – “Outnumbered”
Beyoncé – “XO”


🌿 Acoustic & Indie First Dance Tracks
For vineyard weddings, backyard celebrations, and boho vibes:

Angus & Julia Stone – “Big Jet Plane”
Passenger – “Let Her Go” (acoustic version)
Matt Corby – “Resolution”
Eva Cassidy – “Songbird”
Vance Joy – “I’m With You”


💫 Timeless Classics With a Twist
These familiar songs can be made unique with a live cover, string quartet, or DJ remix:

Elvis Presley – “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (especially popular with live acoustic sax)
Etta James – “At Last”
Fleetwood Mac – “Everywhere” (remixed or live band style)
Frank Sinatra – “The Way You Look Tonight”
Adele – “Make You Feel My Love”


🌍 Unique First Dance Songs You Haven’t Heard at Every Wedding
If you want to surprise your guests and stand out:

Tom Misch – “Movie”
Snoh Aalegra – “Find Someone Like You”
HONNE – “Location Unknown” (Brooklyn Session)
M83 – “Wait”
Angèle – “Ta Reine” (for the bilingual romantics)

How to Make Your First Dance Extra Special

At New Zealand DJ Collective, we help you bring your first dance vision to life. Want a saxophone to accompany the track live? Prefer a custom remix of your favourite song? Or want the beat to drop after the slow part and get your bridal party on the dancefloor? We’ve done it all.

Bonus tip: Consider choosing a song that your DJ can remix into your party set — it creates an epic transition from romantic moment to full dancefloor energy.

💌 Let’s Help You Find Your Song
Still unsure? Our DJs work with couples across Auckland, Queenstown, Wellington, and everywhere in between to help them pick the perfect soundtrack. We’re not just button-pushers — we’re music curators, crowd readers, and memory-makers.

Ready to start planning your ultimate wedding soundtrack?

👉 Contact New Zealand DJ Collective today and let’s create something unforgettable together.

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