Castle Hill

This is probably the most significant factor to consider and be flexible with. Castle Hill can be stunning, gorgeous, and ferocious – sometimes all on the same day. Summer can be scorching hot, snowy, or windy. An overcast day may also bring out the sandflies. But we know you and your guests are generally resilient outdoorsy types who will take all this in your stride!

Marquees are okay to be pitched on the gravel areas – they also make fabulous parachutes on a windy day.

As the road can be tricky to access, and parking at the lodge is very limited, we suggest inviting your able-bodied guests to enjoy the fresh air with a short walk up to the lodge, while reserving the 4WD drive shuttle for Grammy, Gramps, and overnight guests' bags.

The lodge is certified for 45 seated diners only; however, the kitchen can easily cater for 60. Larger groups have been accommodated by using a chiller trailer, spits, barbeques, etc. For larger groups, we suggest a buffet-style 'sit where you choose' meal.

If you are engaging a caterer, please ensure they are well aware of the access and facility limitations. We have listed a few options below that previous guests have used and been happy with (if you have any other great recommendations, please let us know so we can share them!):

·         Smoke 'n' Barrel

·         Country Feasts

·         Spitroast.com

·         For a Springfield-based buffet/grazing table/canapes option, email yaxleyproduce@gmail.com.

There are a plethora of beautiful nooks and crannies in the surrounding beech forest and clearings that are wonderful spots for ceremonies and photographs – enjoy your exploration!

Please note that there is limited covered outdoor space for protection from rain or sun. During the summer, there is a total fire ban, so no braziers, etc., are allowed. However, you can bring portable gas heaters to use outside if you wish.

There is great info about the area on the Castle Hill Holiday Homes website.

For overflow accommodation options, especially for those less keen on bunkroom adventures, it's best to book well in advance as holiday houses can fill up quickly. Most listings are available on holidayhouses.co.nz or castlehillholidayhomes.nz, with a few also listed on Airbnb.

Dining out on other nights may be an option. Porters Lodge or Bealey Lodge are sometimes open for meals – check with them in advance.

The nearest store and fuel can be found in Springfield, which is approximately 30km away and takes about 30 minutes to reach.

Special event hire fees start at $4,000 for a two-night stay (typically Friday – Sunday), including accommodation for up to 40 guests.

While this provides the hirer with exclusive access to the lodge, please note that the grounds and immediate surrounding area are on publicly accessible (DoC) land.