Chichester Cottage FAQs
Everything you are likely to want to know before booking the cottage.
Where is it?
192B Buckley Avenue, Hobsonville Point, Auckland 0618. It is a small black cottage with white-framed windows on the coastal walkway, to the right of the Bear Park childcare centre.
How do I get in?
Access details are provided once your booking is confirmed and paid.
What does it cost to hire?
The cost to hire the cottage is $30 per hour. Community groups, non-profits and community services can contact us to discuss concessions.
Setup and pack-down time must be included within your booked hours.
Does the cottage have tables and chairs?
Yes. The table seats up to 10 boardroom style, or can be split into three with room for six people around each one. Tables can be folded and stacked against the walls for extra floor space.
Outdoor furniture must be returned indoors after your event.
How many people can attend?
No more than 25.
Are there baby-changing facilities?
Yes, there is a baby-changing table in the toilet. Please dispose of soiled nappies appropriately.
Is there wheelchair access to the building and toilet?
Yes.
Is there a kitchen?
Yes. There is a kettle, a fridge/freezer and a sink. There are no cooking facilities.
Do you have cutlery and crockery?
Yes: mugs, glasses, plates, platters, a chopping board, knives and cutlery. Please report any breakages by email.
Is there a sound system?
No, but we can point you towards a supplier.
Is there internet?
Yes. The password is provided when you hire the venue.
Is there a projector and screen?
No.
Is there a lectern?
No.
Can we serve alcohol?
Yes, at a private function with no public access, no advertising, no entry fee, and no alcohol sold or charged for. Food and non-alcoholic drinks must be available, and alcohol stays inside the cottage or the enclosed back garden. The cottage has no liquor licence, and an event that would need one is unlikely to be agreed. The full rules are in the alcohol policy.
The booking form asks whether alcohol will be served, and bookings involving alcohol must be made at least 20 working days before the event.
We expect alcohol to be taken in moderation and drink-driving laws to be heeded.
Do you allow 21st birthday parties?
No, sorry. Almost no community venue will book these, as the risk of noise and rowdiness is too great.
Can we put up a bouncy castle alongside the cottage?
Yes.
Does the cottage have heating and air conditioning?
Yes.
Can we attach decorations to the walls?
Yes, but please do not use pins, nails, sellotape or staples on the walls. Light masking tape is fine. Please do not leave Blu-Tack on the walls, because it can tear paint off when removed.
What parking is there?
There is limited parking in Chichester Lane and on Buckley Avenue.
Is there a first aid kit and defibrillator?
There is a first aid kit under the kitchen bench. There is no defibrillator on site. The nearest is at Little Creatures, along the boardwalk at Catalina Bay.
May I use the adjoining grassed area for a tent or marquee?
The grass beyond the courtyard is owned by Auckland Council. An event permit may be required, and marquee size restrictions apply. Contact us first and we can help.
What do I need to do when cleaning up?
- Take all decorations down and away with you
- Remove all rubbish from the premises, including recyclables (bring your own rubbish bags)
- Wash and store the dishes, and turn off the hot water urn
- Shut and lock the windows, turn off the lights and lower the blinds
- Close the building securely
Allow adequate time for setup and pack-down within your booked hours.
Is there a health and safety plan?
Yes. The cottage’s 2025 Safety Report (PDF) is the plan on file, and the booking form asks you to confirm you have read it.
Does the cottage have a fire alarm?
Yes, but it is not connected to the Fire Service. In a fire emergency, break the alarm glass and call 111. A fire extinguisher is located in the hallway.
Smoking is prohibited. Smoke machines, barbecues and similar equipment are not permitted. A false alarm activation caused by non-compliance may result in charges in excess of $1,000 to the hirer.