It won’t be long before we get our great NZ summer again and if you are celebrating the end of social distancing and want to invite a few friends around for a garden party, here is our checklist to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

  • Beer – If you have a party in New Zealand, beer simply must be on the menu and with a great range of locally brewed craft beers, you can order online and the beer will be delivered to your door.
  • Food – The BBQ will be put through its paces no doubt, with prime meats and veggies for a perfect summer buffet. An informal tuck-in that is always available is the perfect way to feed your guests and the chef would be in charge.
  • Music – No party would be complete without a few great MP3 playlists and a decent sound system. Bluetooth speakers are a game-changer, making it easy to spread the sound and if you’d prefer, hire a local DJ who is guaranteed to get everyone on the dance floor.
  • Neighbours – The last thing you want is noise complaint, so invite the neighbours too! Even if the decline, you had the decency to invite them and that will not be lost.
  • Outdoor Space – Of course, it all depends on the number of people you are planning to invite and with the patio doors open, you can blend indoors with the garden area.
  • Ice & Mixers – Not everyone drinks beer and you need to cater for all, including non-alcoholic drinkers. You will need tons of ice, so order in the morning and have it dropped into your big cooler on the terrace and you’re good to go! You are advised to delegate someone to be bartender and this can be rotated if necessary and if you run out of anything, someone can go to the nearest store.
  • Seating – At the end of the day, you need more seats that you have guests, even though there will always be small groups standing. If seating is insufficient, ask a local community centre if you can hire a few of their chairs and tables. Most are happy to oblige.

Take a leaf out of the event manager’s book and create a long list of things you need and strike them off as they are dealt with. Good food, lots of drink and great music provide the core requirements for a good party and hopefully, it is a Saturday, so people can recover.