
Photo: Julie Asher
The pair were planning a combined event for friends who were to be married in the Catlins on January 4, Mr Murchison said.
Living in Southland, but from the UK, the couple had delayed their wedding due to Covid travel restrictions preventing their families entering the country.
However, 12 family members were now in New Zealand for the big day.
When the two Canterbury men realised there had not been a traditional farewell to their single status they stepped up to plan a day of challenges on the water at Cromwell.
Water-skiing, riding a biscuit and the water park near Lowburn were all on the agenda along with dressing up, Mr Hodzelmans said.
By Julie Asher