The Sawmill Lodge was perfect for a large group. Check-in was very straightforward and easy, and the place was neat and tidy for us upon arrival. We used this as a staging point for our group to gather before meeting Canoe Safari's for a trip down the Whanganui River, and would be keen to rebook during ski season!
There is a train track right near the property though so be warned that light-moderate sleepers will likely be woken in the night. None in our group was bothered much by this, but if you know that you need a good sound sleep and are easily woken, this may not be the place for you.