Cass-Lagoon Circuit, what is the best direction?

Hey there, I'm doing the Cass-Lagoon Circuit over this weekend (2 days) with the University of Canterbury Tramping club. We are planning on doing the route anti-clockwise as in the Tramping Club newsletter it says "Do the loop anti-clockwise to ensure you are going gently downhill for most of the time" but I just read the DOC route guide which says "Most trampers prefer to begin the track from the Cass end, as this avoids the steepest ascents." which completely contradicts the advice in the newsletter. I was just wondering if anyone has any useful tips/information on what would be the best way to take the track, especially considering the wintry conditions. We're after the easiest route as most of us are still beginners. Also, is it fairly safe to assume that the 20 person Hamilton hut will have enough room for 7 of us to stay overnight? I'm sure there will be plenty of room since it's winter, so I don't think any of us will be bringing tents. Any information would be appreciated, thanks very much. Links: Cass-Lagoon Saddle track: http://tramper.co.nz/?289 Map: http://i36.tinypic.com/35l7okm.jpg Route guide (details the track taken in a clockwise direction): http://www.doc.govt.nz/upload/documents/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/canterbury/Waimakariri/AP-route-guides/route-guide-12.pdf