Ōmokoroa Venue Hire
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve got a question about hiring Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall, you’ll likely find the answer below – covering bookings, parking, what’s included and using the hall on the day.
Music & Noise
Can we play loud music at our event?
Yes, loud music is generally acceptable until midnight. Please be mindful that there are homes nearby, so we ask that you keep noise to a reasonable level. We also try to avoid scheduling incompatible events at the same time – for example, a loud party alongside a quieter gathering.
Cleaning
Who is responsible for cleaning after our event?
- It is the responsibility of the Hirer following the conclusion of the Hire to clean the Hall(s) and to leave the facility “as found”
- If cleaning is not completed satisfactorily, any cleaning costs will be charged to the Hirer to recover any and all expenses involved
- All cleaning shall be completed by 8.00 AM of the day following the Hire or at least two (2) hours before the next Booking (whichever is the earlier)
- All rubbish must be removed from the inside bins, clear the car park area of all rubbish including cigarette butts – (smoking/vaping is ONLY allowed 10 meters from the Halls’ exterior walls); take your bottles and cans away for recycling
Parking
How much parking is available?
The tar-sealed car park holds approximately 40 vehicles, and the grassed area beyond can accommodate a further 10–15 cars. There are designated accessible car parks directly adjacent to the hall.
Is the car park shared with other users?
Yes – the Play Centre uses the car park on weekday mornings, and the Toy Library uses it on Saturday mornings. Please be aware of pedestrians, particularly children, when these groups are present.
Alcohol
Can we serve alcohol at our event?
You may serve alcohol to invited guests at no charge. However, if you intend to sell alcohol, sell tickets that include alcohol, or charge an entry fee where alcohol is provided, you will need to obtain a Special Licence from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council before your event. Please check with the Booking Officer. Alcohol must never be provided to minors or uninvited guests.
Security & Guests
How do we manage security at our event?
- Security is the responsibility of the hirer. We recommend keeping your event invitation-only and avoiding advertising it publicly on social media – open Facebook invitations in particular can lead to uninvited guests. You are responsible for leaving the building secure when you depart.
- Make sure lights are off, windows closed, all doors locked and key returned to the Lock Box
BBQs
Can we use a BBQ at our event?
BBQs are permitted with prior approval from the Booking Officer, provided they do not create a fire risk, do not leave oil or fat on the ground, and are used well away from the buildings. Please discuss your plans with the Booking Officer when you make your booking.
Tables & Furniture
What tables are available, and how many people do they seat?
We have 38 trestle tables across the facility. Each table measures 1.8m × 0.7m and seats 6–8 people. Chairs are also available – please indicate the number you need when you complete the booking form.
Is a stage available?
Yes – the Large Hall has 10 stage modules, each 1.2m × 1.2m × 0.4m high, along with 2 step-up forms. The stage can be configured to suit your event. Please note your requirements on the booking form.
Rubbish & Recycling
How do we handle rubbish after our event?
Remove all rubbish from the inside bins, clear the car park area of all rubbish including cigarette butts – (smoking/vaping is ONLY allowed 10 meters from the Halls’ exterior walls); take your bottles and cans away for recycling.
Payment
How do we pay for our hire?
- The OSH Booking Officer will inform the OSH Treasurer of your Hire details
- Functions/Events/Parties/Offsite Equipment Hire are payable in advance
- Regular weekly/monthly Hire and storage charges are invoiced at the beginning of each month
- All OSH Hire payments are via internet banking
Heating & Hot Water
How does the heating work?
Both halls are heated or cooled by heat pumps. To activate, press the button next to the control panel – this turns the heat pump on for one hour. Your preferred temperature can then be set on the control panel itself. To keep the heat/cool pumps running, press the button again before the hour is up. Full instructions are displayed next to each pump.
How do we get hot water for tea and coffee?
The kitchen in the Large Hall has a constant boiling water supply. The Small Hall kitchenette has a zip hot water unit – please switch this on as soon as you arrive so it is ready when you need it.
Toiletries & Consumables
Do we need to bring our own toilet paper, soap, and hand towels?
No – toilet paper, paper towels, and soap are all provided by the Hall.
Kitchen Equipment
What kitchen equipment and crockery is available to use?
Crockery items are available to all hirers, including mugs, plates, cutlery, glassware, kitchen utensils, serving platters and trays.