A Setting That Holds Stories
There are places you photograph. And there are places that photograph you.
Old Forest School isn’t a backdrop. It’s a character in its own right. A place where light does unexpected things and every season rewrites what’s possible.
For photographers, stylists, and filmmakers seeking more than just beauty—this is where you work.
The Setting
What the Land Offers
A 1933 schoolhouse with original rimu floors and institutional cream walls. Four 1940s forestry workers’ cabins tucked into native bush. Weathered barns. A tennis court rusting gently at the meadow’s edge. Walled gardens and wildflower meadows. Hedgerows. Orchard paths. A wildlife pond edged with ferns.
This isn’t manicured perfection. It’s honest beauty—the kind that comes from being genuinely used, genuinely loved, genuinely real.
Every building has actual history. The schoolhouse really taught children. The cabins really housed workers. The layers of time are visible. You can feel them.
The Seasons Change Everything
Spring — Everything blooms at once. Wildflowers. Cherry blossoms. The meadows turn gold. Light feels fresh and hopeful.
Summer — Rose-drenched abundance. Long days, warm evenings. The gardens at full tilt. Everything lush and green.
Autumn — Golden light that makes everything glow. The meadows fade to wheat-colored. Amber and rust creeping in. The softening.
Winter — The bones of the place show through. Native forest still green. Mist hanging low. Quiet that feels profound. Fire smoke. Sculptural lines.
What We Welcome
Fashion Editorials
Heritage architecture meets contemporary styling. Models in gardens that don’t try too hard. Weathered and elegant sitting comfortably together.
Brand Films & Campaigns
For brands that value story over spectacle. That want a setting with genuine soul, not generic pretty.
Bridal Campaigns & Styled Shoots
Where romance feels earned, not performed. Where beauty is imperfect and better for it.
Narrative Cinematography
For filmmakers needing 1940s New Zealand or timeless anywhere. Period details that are authentic because they actually are.
Editorial Portraiture
Where subjects can be themselves because the place doesn’t demand performance.
How It Works
Availability is Limited
We’re selective about when and how photo and film work happens here. Bookings are taken between our wedding and celebration season, typically during quieter periods.
Submit a Proposal
Tell us:
- What you’re creating (editorial, campaign, film, etc.)
- The concept or story
- What draws you to Old Forest School specifically
- Proposed dates and duration
- Team size
- Which spaces you’re hoping to use
We’ll respond honestly about whether the timing and concept work for the property.
Rates & Terms
Pricing varies based on project scope, duration, team size, and areas used. Commercial rates differ from editorial.
Terms and access details provided once a project is confirmed.
What We Provide
Exclusive use of agreed areas during your booking
Access to relevant spaces and grounds
On-site support and property guidance
Parking for crew
Basic facilities (restrooms, some covered areas)
What We Don’t Provide
Styling equipment or props
Catering (you arrange your own)
Hair and makeup facilities
Power for large equipment (discuss needs in advance)
Accommodation (cabins are for overnight stays, not day shoots)
Our Expectations
Respect for the Land
This is a working property with genuine history. We expect care with heritage buildings and features. No damage to gardens, paths, or structures. Adherence to agreed areas and timings. Proper waste removal.
Work With the Place, Not Against It
The best work happens when you let the land have a say. We’re not here to police your creativity, but we do ask that you collaborate with what’s here rather than fight it.
Credit & Usage
We appreciate (but don’t require) credit when work is published. We may ask to see final work for our archives.
For commercial projects, usage rights are discussed as part of booking.
Enquire About Shoots
Tell us what you’re creating. What you’re hoping to capture. Why this place feels right for your vision.
We’ll let you know honestly if the timing and concept work—and if they do, we’ll help make it happen.
