GET IN TOUCH
Let’s Start a Conversation
Whether you’re dreaming of a wedding, planning a celebration, seeking a quiet stay, or proposing a photo shoot, we’d love to hear from you.
Tell us what you’re imagining. What drew you here. What you’re hoping to create or feel.
We’ll let you know honestly if we think Old Forest School is right for you, and if it is, we’ll help you make it happen.
For Weddings
Book a Viewing
Come see the property in person. Walk the paths, sit in the schoolhouse, imagine your day here. We’ll show you around, answer questions, and help you understand what this place is (and isn’t).
Tours take 60 minutes. Bring whoever helps you make decisions.
Book a Wedding Viewing via email at info@oldforestschool.co.nz
Or Start with a Call
If you can’t visit yet, we can arrange a phone or video call. We’ll talk through what you’re envisioning, answer practical questions, and help you understand if this feels like the right fit.
Schedule a Call via email at info@oldforestschool.co.nz
Send an Enquiry
Not ready for a tour? Send us a message with your date, guest count, and what drew you to Old Forest School.
Send us your enquiry via email to info@oldforestschool.co.nz
For Celebrations & Gatherings
Tell Us What You’re Planning
Personal milestone? Team gathering? Long lunch with people you adore? Tell us what you’re hoping for, when, and how many people.
We’ll discuss how the space could work and send relevant information.
Send us your enquiry via email to info@oldforestschool.co.nz
For Slow Stays
Check Availability
Let us know your preferred dates (minimum 2 nights) and whether you’re solo, a couple, or a small group. We’ll confirm availability and send booking details.
No viewing needed—the cabins and grounds speak for themselves when you arrive.
Send us your enquiry via email to info@oldforestschool.co.nz
For Photo & Film Shoots
Submit a Proposal
Tell us what you’re creating, the concept, proposed dates, team size, and which spaces you’re hoping to use.
We’ll respond honestly about whether the timing and vision align with the property.
Send us your enquiry via email to info@oldforestschool.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we book?
Weddings: 1-3 years in advance, particularly Saturdays in peak season (October-April). If you’ve found your date and love the venue, don’t wait.
Celebrations & Gatherings: More flexible, usually 6-18 months ahead.
Slow Stays: 2-6 months ahead, more availability mid-week.
Photo/Film Shoots: Between event seasons, book as far ahead as possible.
What’s the deposit?
Wedding deposits start at $750 and secure your date and current pricing.
Celebration and slow stay deposits vary based on your booking.
Can we have our ceremony and reception here?
Yes. Most couples do the entire day at Old Forest School, ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. You have exclusive use of Old Forest School for the full day.
What if it rains?
We have beautiful indoor options. The schoolhouse seats up to 120 for ceremonies. We also have covered spaces for dining, mingling and dancing. Weather rarely ruins anything here—it just changes the story slightly.
Do you provide catering?
No, we’re fully BYO. You choose your caterer from our trusted list (or bring your own if they meet our standards). We provide the space and support; you bring the food that matters to you.
Is alcohol included?
You BYO all your own beverages, wine, beer, spirits, everything. Zero corkage fees. Ever.
The Curated and Curated Plus wedding packages include bar staff, glassware, ice, and service. The Classic package is more DIY, you hire your own commercial bar service.
Can we stay overnight?
Yes. Our four heritage forest cabins sleep 8 people comfortably (expandable to 12-16). They’re included in the Curated Plus wedding package or available as an add-on to other bookings.
For slow stays, the cabins are the accommodation.
How many people can you accommodate?
Weddings: 20-120 guests comfortably
Celebrations & Gatherings: 20-100 guests
Slow Stays: 1-8 people overnight (all four cabins can accommodate up to 8)
Are you accessible?
We’re rural. There’s stone pathways. There are uneven lawns. Some areas are easier to navigate than others.
If you have specific accessibility needs, let’s discuss what’s possible. We’re happy to work with you where we can.
What about parking?
We have parking for 25 vehicles on-site.
Can we bring our dog?
For weddings and celebrations, talk to us about it. The answer is usually yes, with some guidelines.
For slow stays, unfortunately no.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Full terms provided when you book. In brief: deposits are non-refundable but can be transferred to a new date if needed within a reasonable timeframe. We try to be fair and flexible, especially for genuine emergencies.
Still have questions?
Send them through. We’re happy to answer anything that’ll help you decide if this place is right for you.
How to Find Us
Old Forest School
795 Rotoehu Road, Pongakawa
Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
From Rotorua: 45 minutes via State Highway 33
From Tauranga: 45 minutes via State Highway 2
From Hamilton: 120 minutes via State Highway 1 & 33
Detailed directions provided upon booking your visit.
We’re Here
Whether this is the beginning of your wedding planning, you’re organizing a milestone celebration, or you just need a few days to stop—we’re here.
Send us a message. Book a viewing. Start the conversation.
This place has a way of choosing its people. Maybe you’re one of them.
Old Forest School
795 Rotoehu Road, Pongakawa
Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
info@oldforestschool.co.nz
