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Host rating
100 %
Last replied
2 May 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
75
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Description
Nau mai haere mai! Welcome! Willkommen!
Thanks for checking out our page...
We are a family of four living on a property with 14ha of protected native bush (forest), small flocks of chickens and ducks, a few sheep, hundreds of birds, thousands of glow-worms, millions of insects, organic gardens & fruit trees - our boys, Mātai-Nuku and Momo-Āio were born in 2023 and 2025.
All of us are looking forward to hopefully host you soon in this very special corner of the world :)
Hōri -
Māori/Pākehā. From my mother, I descend from tribes in the Bay of Plenty region from the ancestral canoes - Nukutere, Mataatua & Te Arawa. My father is Pākehā from the South Island (Otago) with Scottish, English and Viking ancestry. I bought this property in 2017 and have hosted workaway volunteers ever since. In 2018 I volunteered for many workaway hosts as I backpacked around the world (mainly in Europe and South America).
My vision is to live a simple, self-sufficient life connected to land and sea. Creating a safe space where people can be high on nature.
Steffi-
Free spirit. Introvert. Animal and nature lover. Yoga. Non meat eater. Non drinker. Simple and natural way of living. Homegrown, homemade organic food and medicine. Tidy and hard worker. Mama.
I started traveling the world when I turned 20 after I finished my apprenticeship in Hotel Management. Travelling became my biggest passion and I kept exploring the world for the following 14 years on and off. In between travelling, working and volunteering all over the globe, where I met amazing people and made some very special memories, I always kept coming back to Switzerland and Germany to see my family and gather some pocketmoney for more travels. In that time I also got my massage therapist certificates in Switzerland.
We are looking for energetic, self motivated, environmentally conscious people who have skills and experience to help with these current projects :
- Enclose a deck
- Mamaku fence building
- Animal pest control (possums, rats, musterlids, cats, mice)
- Physical, organic weed control
-Mowing lawns
-If you‘re open to it, take our big boy on a walk or just spend some time with him
- and other small jobs like home care/maintenance/cleaning/gardening tasks if needed
We can offer volunteers Māori culture, NZ flora & fauna info, NZ music, guitars, healthy organic homegrown food, eco friendly living, a peaceful place to be away from the stresses of travel & the city.
We strive to live a waste free life, so if you bring any plastic products (or any other waste) with you, we kindly ask that you take it with you when you leave. You can leave biodegradable waste.
This place is free from drugs, cigarettes, vapes and alcohol. Please don’t apply if you rely on these substances.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Connecting/reconnecting to land and sea, environmentally conscious lifestyle, conservation/ecology information, Māori culture/language, NZ music, native plants & birds, rongoā (Māori natural medicine), seasonal organic homegrown and locally sourced food, offset your carbon footprint from traveling by helping with conservation - giving back to nature.
We love exchanging culture, music, recipes/cooking/food, language, dreams, stories, positive vibes.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Help with moving mamaku into position for fence, shovel & ram dirt, simple building tasks. Hōri will usually work alongside you.
Walk/service trap line.
General gardening and house/property maintenance.
On Thursdays we usually help papa on family land (20mins drive)
Helping hours are from after breakfast to lunch time. 5 hours in the mornings so you have the afternoons free and avoid the hotter part of the day e.g. 7am-12pm or 8am-1pm
Languages
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
Maori: Fluent
Spanish: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
We live on rainwater so guests must be conscious of water consumption.
Volunteers have their own cabin with bathroom, compost toilet and special view over protected native bush, VERY PEACEFUL. Breakfast and lunch will be at the main tiny house, where we live. For dinner you’ve got your own little kitchen in the cabin. Wifi is limited and is turned off every night when we go to sleep. It should go without saying, but it is expected that we all respect each other’s space. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for the days you work. These meals can be repetitive as we eat seasonally off the land. If you are a big eater it may pay to bring yourself extra food. Share the cooking and clean up. We ask that volunteers organise their own food for their days off (many choose to go on overnight trips for their 2 days off).
What else ...
We are flexible about when you take your 2 days off a week, but appreciate it if you take them when Hōri has to go to work (usually Monday-Wednesday)
We recommend having your own vehicle to get around as there is no public transport and we are isolated from town and other attractions.
Property is located 7min drive to nearest beach (Hikuwai/Hukuwai) and 10min drive (30min bike) to Ōpōtiki township.
The area offers bush walks, glow worms, camping, sea swimming/surfing/diving, cycling, bike trails (Motu Trails), tramping, bush huts, ancient trees, rafting, paddling, yoga, meditation, gardening, organic food, sustainable living, reading, environmental protection/guardianship, NZ birds, Ōpōtiki Library (books and free unlimited wifi), café/restaurants, arts & crafts stores, opshops, Motu river jetboat, new skatepark, Moutohorā (Whale Island) tours, kayaking tours, orchards (kiwi fruit, macadamia, avocado, citrus), Whakatōhea Mussels (largest open ocean mussel farm), fishing, hunting, beach walks, sunrises/sunsets, fires, star gazing, river swimming, rock/bridge jumping (bombs), chilling.
Transport to and from Ōpōtiki - your own vehicle, hitchhiking, bus, plane to Whakatāne, yacht/vessel, bike.
From Auckland you can fly with Air Chathams to Whakatāne or bus to Ōpōtiki with Intercity. There’s also a bus from Tauranga called the Bayhopper. If you don't have your own vehicle we can pick you up from Ōpōtiki.
Its about 4.5 hours drive in a car from Auckland.
From Whakatāne - 45 minutes drive.
From Hamilton - 3.5 hours drive.
From Tauranga - 2 hours drive.
From Rotorua - 2 hours drive.
From Gisborne - 2 hours drive.
From Te Araroa (near East Cape - the first place in the world to see the sunrise) - 2.5 hours drive.
From Taupō - 3 hours drive.
From Wellington - 7.5 hours drive.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
Normal van size. Not a super large campervan
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Host ref number: 278662491363
Feedback (37)
15 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Lilen)
Lilen stayed with us for two weeks and was great to have around. Her astrology knowledge is impressive and we all had great chats about life. She helped us with gardening, painting, basic carpentry and looking after our boys. She’s motivated to give her best in tasks and also helped with dishes outside of work hours. It was great sharing moments… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (Lilen) for host
Hori, Steffi, Matae and Momo are beautiful people in a beautiful please. My experence was really nice and I really enjoyed.
8 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Merle) for host
I am very glad that it worked out at such short notice that I could stay. I had a fantastic time with Steffi, Hōri, Mātai-Nuku and little Momo-Āio!
The cabin is wonderful and a quiet, peaceful place.
I did mostly weeding, but Steffi always gave me the option to do something else and choose what I wanted to do.
After work I did for some walks in… read more
The cabin is wonderful and a quiet, peaceful place.
I did mostly weeding, but Steffi always gave me the option to do something else and choose what I wanted to do.
After work I did for some walks in… read more
3 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Merle)
Merle has been a pleasure to host. She’s been easy, reliable, independent and hard working. She spent all her working days gardening, which was a great help for us. We enjoyed having her around our family. Thank you, enjoy your travels and you’re welcome here anytime.
(Excellent
)
9 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Silvia & Niamh) for host
Thank you so much for being such generous and lovely hosts throughout our stay. It was amazing to see all the wonderful parts of the garden, the forest and your cultures. We are so grateful to have this as our first part of our trip and also our first Workaway.
Hori and Steffens were great hosts throughout our stay and recommended lots of local… read more
Hori and Steffens were great hosts throughout our stay and recommended lots of local… read more
7 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Silvia & Niamh)
Niamh & Silvi stayed with us for a couple of weeks including 4days where they looked after our place while we were away (which we really appreciated because they looked after our animals and little seedlings). They were independent and had their own vehicle to explore local sites. Unfortunately Silvi was sick for the second week but seemed to be… read more
(Excellent
)
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Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
15 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Lilen)
Lilen stayed with us for two weeks and was great to have around. Her astrology knowledge is impressive and we all had great chats about life. She helped us with gardening, painting, basic carpentry and looking after our boys. She’s motivated to give her best in tasks and also helped with dishes outside of work hours. It was great sharing moments… read more
(Excellent)
15 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (Lilen) for host
Hori, Steffi, Matae and Momo are beautiful people in a beautiful please. My experence was really nice and I really enjoyed.
8 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Merle) for host
I am very glad that it worked out at such short notice that I could stay. I had a fantastic time with Steffi, Hōri, Mātai-Nuku and little Momo-Āio!
The cabin is wonderful and a quiet, peaceful place.
I did mostly weeding, but Steffi always gave me the option to do something else and choose what I wanted to do.
After work I did for some walks in… read more
The cabin is wonderful and a quiet, peaceful place.
I did mostly weeding, but Steffi always gave me the option to do something else and choose what I wanted to do.
After work I did for some walks in… read more
3 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Merle)
Merle has been a pleasure to host. She’s been easy, reliable, independent and hard working. She spent all her working days gardening, which was a great help for us. We enjoyed having her around our family. Thank you, enjoy your travels and you’re welcome here anytime.
(Excellent)
9 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Silvia & Niamh) for host
Thank you so much for being such generous and lovely hosts throughout our stay. It was amazing to see all the wonderful parts of the garden, the forest and your cultures. We are so grateful to have this as our first part of our trip and also our first Workaway.
Hori and Steffens were great hosts throughout our stay and recommended lots of local… read more
Hori and Steffens were great hosts throughout our stay and recommended lots of local… read more
7 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Silvia & Niamh)
Niamh & Silvi stayed with us for a couple of weeks including 4days where they looked after our place while we were away (which we really appreciated because they looked after our animals and little seedlings). They were independent and had their own vehicle to explore local sites. Unfortunately Silvi was sick for the second week but seemed to be… read more
(Excellent)
26 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Sophie) for host
The sweetest corner of the world! Very peaceful stay here with Hori, Steffi, and Matai Nuku and a true taste of a simple, sustainable, and happy kiwi life living off the land by the sea. The property itself is cozy but with plenty of privacy for workawayers too, a really good match. I enjoyed fresh and delicious meals, getting my hands dirty,… read more
25 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Sophie)
We really liked having Sophie stay with us. She was very independent in all ways. Had her own vehicle, didn‘t need a lot of explaining when it came to jobs, very proactive, tidy and always helped with dishes after our meals. She helped dismanteling a deck, in fact, she did most of it by herself. Weeded our gardens and helped with mulch. Our little… read more
(Excellent)
24 May 2024
Left by Workawayer (Edoardo) for host
then, I have a lot to say, because two weeks, especially if you are at the beginning of your journey, are perhaps the longest and most impactful. Steffi and Hori are two genuine, kind, simple-minded guys and linked from what I have seen by a love in common with our most ancient and functional relationships and bonds with nature and everything that… read more
18 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Edoardo)
Edoardo stayed two weeks with us and has been helping with various projects like: a glasshouse, fencing, chipping, cleaning, gardening and more.
It was a pleassure to host him and learn more about Italy/Tuscany. He is a very kind and respectfull person, always up for a good laugh or deep conversation. Our baby boy got along well with him too. He… read more
It was a pleassure to host him and learn more about Italy/Tuscany. He is a very kind and respectfull person, always up for a good laugh or deep conversation. Our baby boy got along well with him too. He… read more
(Excellent)
4 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Alexandra) for host
My review is coming a couple of weeks late but I wanted to make sure to leave feedback for Hōri and Steffi, as this was one of the most magical workaway experiences I have ever had! My time with Hōri, Steffi and Mātai-Nuku was phenomenal - they are incredibly wonderful, warm, wise, kind people who welcome you with open arms and hearts. I am so… read more
12 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Alexandra)
Ali has been a very positive, bright light coming into our home. She stayed with another solo workaway who was here at the same time and they got along very well. She was a big help in many areas and never scared of any unknown jobs.
We‘re very grateful for all her energy and initiative she put into the work we gave her. She helped us with… read more
We‘re very grateful for all her energy and initiative she put into the work we gave her. She helped us with… read more
(Excellent)
2 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Lucas) for host
I stayed with Steffi and Hōri for two weeks and I have to say it was an amazing time I spent there! I loved the discussions we had and discovering the Maōri culture with Hōri.
They're wonderful host, blessed cooks, careful with the working time, and easy-going people I had things to learn from.
Their place is so peaceful it's resting your entire… read more
They're wonderful host, blessed cooks, careful with the working time, and easy-going people I had things to learn from.
Their place is so peaceful it's resting your entire… read more
1 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucas)
Lucas stayed with us for two weeks and packed in a lot for this time. He is a very tidy, considerate, respectful, polite, hard working man who we enjoyed having around. Some tasks included clay building, gardening, woodwork, weeding, general cleaning, seed sorting, preserving… He cleaned the dishes and kitchen amazingly, was great with our baby… read more
(Excellent)
1 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Amélie) for host
Hōri and Steffi were wonderful hosts, and their child Mātai-Nuku is so precious! I mostly worked with Hōri doing landscaping and gardening. He has such a bright and fun personality and is a great communicator - working with Hōri is a delight! Steffi is very organised, clear, and patient. I wasn’t able to get a car for my time there, but Steffi… read more
24 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Amélie)
It was nice to host Amélie for one week.
She helped with various projects like the gardens, weed control, a shed, seedsaving, traplines in the bush and much more. She also always helped with the dishes after our meals together.
Amélie had a real lovely way with our little boy which was beautiful to witness. She shared some of her awesome music and… read more
She helped with various projects like the gardens, weed control, a shed, seedsaving, traplines in the bush and much more. She also always helped with the dishes after our meals together.
Amélie had a real lovely way with our little boy which was beautiful to witness. She shared some of her awesome music and… read more
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Laure)
Laure has been a very special workaway for us. She‘s such a hardworking, easygoing, respectfull, kind person. Our little boy had a very unique deep connection with her which especially filled our hearts.
Laure has been a massive help for us with many projects like a glasshouse/earthbuilding, tyding up many gardens, lifting and shifting posts,… read more
Laure has been a massive help for us with many projects like a glasshouse/earthbuilding, tyding up many gardens, lifting and shifting posts,… read more
(Excellent)
14 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Laure) for host
It's with a heavy heart that I leave this Workaway. I spent two extraordinary and extremely powerful weeks. Not a single bad moment, just wonderful moments with them. A calm, relaxing place, with no stress or pressure. Despite the fact that my English was poor when I arrived, a very strong bond developed between us. I can't thank them enough for… read more
14 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kei) for host
Hori and Steffi are very positive, kind and knowledgeable. Hori taught me Māori culture. It was also fun to have a chat with Steffi about culture and girls talk with a cup of tea and chocolate. They both traveled world. I couldn’t stop looking the pictures of their adventure on the wall.
Their son, Matai-Nuku is very energetic and friendly baby.… read more
Their son, Matai-Nuku is very energetic and friendly baby.… read more
9 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Kei)
Kei was such a pleassure to host. She‘s easy going, respectful, funny, a good helper and very independent.
She helped us with various tasks and one day was even helping fully by herself as we had to go away for the day and she did an amazing job.
She was very interested in all the tasks, keen to learn and a real nice hands on attitude.
Kei was… read more
She helped us with various tasks and one day was even helping fully by herself as we had to go away for the day and she did an amazing job.
She was very interested in all the tasks, keen to learn and a real nice hands on attitude.
Kei was… read more
(Excellent)
28 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Philipp) for host
From the very first communications I was sure that‘s gonna be it! Hori and Steffi are really warm welcoming persons, they were easy going and super kindful. I felt like home when I came to there place already. The work was diverse, and we switched tasks over the day. Actually it was really various, from cutting and grabbing mamaku trunks to… read more
28 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Philipp)
Phil stayed with us for 10 days and is probably one of the most hardest working, enthusiastic volunteers we’ve hosted. He is a great communicator and completed tasks with good energy and strength. Very respectful, considerate and flexible. One day he chose to continue working after his 5 hours to help split wood and complete the job which was… read more
(Excellent)
15 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Johanna & Holly ) for host
We stayed with Hōri and Steffi for two weeks and had the most amazing time which made it hard to leave again! Their place is truely a slice of paradise and perfect to calm down and connect with nature. They are the kindest and most easy going people and we felt like a part of the family during our time with them. They both also adjusted to our… read more
13 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Johanna & Holly )
Johanna & Holly stayed with us for two weeks and are two lovely, respectful, considerate, uncomplicated young women. We loved having them and they contributed well to our projects including earth building, drainage, gardening, gathering and moving materials, cleaning, pruning etc.
Our son loved them from the first minute and both of them were… read more
Our son loved them from the first minute and both of them were… read more
(Excellent)
17 Aug 2023
Left by Workawayer (Hollie & Albert ) for host
We couldn't have asked for a better time with Hōri and Steffi. The location is beautiful and our time in the Bush with Hōri was an experience we won't forget, especially seeing the glow worms at night. We learnt so much from them both and enjoyed the delicious vegan meals they made for us, especially the desserts! Super grateful to have been… read more
9 Aug 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Hollie & Albert )
We enjoyed having Albert & Holly for their two weeks here. They braved probably the coldest part of the year with frosty mornings but clear sunny days. They were super flexible and easy with weekly arrangements. Both are very respectful and very hard working - we achieved a lot including planting native trees, moving fill, gardening,… read more
(Excellent)
26 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Felipe) for host
Hori and steffy are beautiful people, from the first minute I felt at home, Every day I was asked if I was missing something or if I was okay in my room.
It was an amazing week learning different jobs all related to nature and self-sustaining life, Hori makes no work boring or repetitivo.
They live next to a millenary forest what can be visited… read more
It was an amazing week learning different jobs all related to nature and self-sustaining life, Hori makes no work boring or repetitivo.
They live next to a millenary forest what can be visited… read more
25 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Felipe)
We hosted Felipe for a week and wished he stayed longer because we loved having him. He is very nice, interesting and super easy going. He taught us about Chile, Patagonia, the nature and indigenous people of where he’s from. It was great to brush up on Spanish and we helped him improve his English. He is an excellent worker and sets out to… read more
(Excellent)
23 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Clément) for host
I recommend this unique place and these amazing humans with whom I learned so much! For almost 1 month they transported me into their very special world. The work is always varied and we do something different every day. In all the time I've spent with them, we've hardly eaten the same thing twice, and Hori and Stefi always manage to find a new… read more
19 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Clément)
Clèment surprised us in a very special way - coming from a big city and being so open to our simple way of life, wanting to work hard, contribute and learn. He has helped us with many things during his 3.5 weeks here including retaining wall, weeding, dismantling old garden, weedeating, bamboo harvesting, preparing planting area, tidying workshop,… read more
(Excellent)
6 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Nina) for host
We had such an awesome time with Hōri, Steffi and little Mātai. They warmly welcomed us into their home right next to native bush and let us be part of their family for a week. They are both really open minded and easy going and we really enjoy hearing and sharing all sorts of travel stories :) We really appreciate all the good homegrown food and… read more
31 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Nina)
Nina & Robin are a beautiful couple and we would host them again in a heartbeat. They are both very friendly, positive and respectful with a good work ethic. Also very independent and easy going. They were the first workawayers we’ve had since having a baby and they were great at slotting into our routine for the week they were here. They cooked a… read more
(Excellent)
5 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Baxter) for host
My stay with Hõri and Stefi was amazing, they are both welcoming and interesting individuals. I learnt a lot over the time that I was there as well as feeling very at piece when down in the cabin overlooking the native bush. The work we did was not only fun but rewarding! 10/10 across the board would stay again in a heartbeat.
23 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Baxter)
Baxter stayed for a week and was super easy going. A very respectful young man with a good work ethic. It was impressive to see what two men could achieve in terms of moving some of the largest mamaku trunks to date. He helped finish poultry fence, removed weeds and progressed the mamaku fence. He can use tools including chainsaw, weedeater and… read more
(Excellent)
20 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Laurélie) for host
I stayed with Steff and Hori for 8 days.
The tasks and boundaries were clear and realistic, which made the experience mutually respectful and enjoyable.
I felt something very special sleeping on their land, right next to the protected bush, eating delicious food from the garden and enjoying a slow-paced life.
I was pleased to help this… read more
The tasks and boundaries were clear and realistic, which made the experience mutually respectful and enjoyable.
I felt something very special sleeping on their land, right next to the protected bush, eating delicious food from the garden and enjoying a slow-paced life.
I was pleased to help this… read more
5 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Laurélie)
Laurélie stayed one week and was a great help. She approached tasks with enthusiasm and is open, honest and hard working. She makes yummy vegan curry and has a calm manner. Help included digging drainage, getting loads of gravel, fencing, lifting. A great comment was “people pay lots of money to go to a gym for workouts like this”. It was great… read more
(Excellent)
18 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Hari & Madison) for host
We had a blast at our week with Hōri & Steffi. They are both really kind, accepting people who are very knowledgeable about the area & interesting to talk with.
Their land is beautiful and we enjoyed having the ducks, chickens, and sheep around. The separate cabin space is nice and had a comfortable double bed with a great view of the bush,… read more
Their land is beautiful and we enjoyed having the ducks, chickens, and sheep around. The separate cabin space is nice and had a comfortable double bed with a great view of the bush,… read more
16 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Hari & Madison)
Hari & Maddison stayed almost a week. Hari made us all a delicious Indian curry. We felt for him having to work while travelling as he was often pulled away to his phone/laptop to keep up with work demands. Maddison was motivated and usually started earlier to get her hours done. By the end of their stay we were more in sync and could all work… read more
(Excellent)
27 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lily & Teo)
Lily & Teo stayed with us for 2 weeks and it was great to host them for their first workaway on their travel adventures. They helped with various tasks including harakeke trimming, clearing, planting, weeding, trapping, sanding, lifting, digging… their efforts were appreciated especially after so long of not having any extra help. It was good they… read more
(Excellent)
26 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Lily & Teo) for host
AMAZING!!!
Hori and Steffi were the hosts we were most exited to stay with and they way over exceeded our expectations.
They where so so friendly from the very first day, they shared stories with us, laughed with us, and cooked us healthy delicious meals (REALLY AMAZING FOOD) and gave us 3 meals a day. Steffi made us the best lemon cake we have… read more
Hori and Steffi were the hosts we were most exited to stay with and they way over exceeded our expectations.
They where so so friendly from the very first day, they shared stories with us, laughed with us, and cooked us healthy delicious meals (REALLY AMAZING FOOD) and gave us 3 meals a day. Steffi made us the best lemon cake we have… read more
21 Jul 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte & Luca)
Charlotte and Luca were both a pleasure to have at a crazy time in world history (covid19 outbreak & national lockdown). I really enjoyed having them stay during this uncertain time and appreciated their help and good energy. They planted my garden packed with winter vegetable crops which I am now enjoying and we’re both very good with my nephew.… read more
(Excellent)
20 Jul 2020
Left by Workawayer (Charlotte & Luca) for host
How to describe with words our expérience in Hori's place.. was just Amazing! :) Hori became a firend, a family! He Host us during the lockdown and it was so nice to spend Time together in his forest, in the vegetable garden, cooking delicious and healthy food, walking, swimming in the sea, speaking around the fire and under thé stars. Hori has a… read more
18 May 2020
Left by Workawayer (Pablo) for host
It has been an amazing experience.
Hōri is not a talker but a doer, he loves sharing his knowledge about nature and culture. He is really grounded, connected to the land and to his cultural heritage.
Food was awesome and delicious made from scratch using organic locally grown ingredients from the forest and garden.
Hōri, his family and friends… read more
Hōri is not a talker but a doer, he loves sharing his knowledge about nature and culture. He is really grounded, connected to the land and to his cultural heritage.
Food was awesome and delicious made from scratch using organic locally grown ingredients from the forest and garden.
Hōri, his family and friends… read more
18 May 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Pablo)
Pablito es un muy buen hermano! es muy trabajador y tiene buena iniciativa. This Spanish brother stayed 3 weeks and I can’t say enough about his amazing work ethic and initiative. He works hard and is super low maintenance being content and appreciative with any work/food/situation. I enjoyed sharing time in the bush/ocean, gardening, weaving,… read more
(Excellent)
13 Apr 2020
Left by Workawayer (Justine) for host
What an amazing experience with the most beautiful souls...even now, several months later I still feel nothing but gratitude for my time spent with Hori and his family.
He is so knowledgeable about NZ culture, history, and the land, and has a deep respect for the earth that is so contagious, as is his joy. We went on many bush walks through the… read more
He is so knowledgeable about NZ culture, history, and the land, and has a deep respect for the earth that is so contagious, as is his joy. We went on many bush walks through the… read more
14 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Justine)
Justine stayed a week and was an absolute pleasure to host. Super easy, low maintenance and brought such a good vibe to this place. She was fully self sufficient, pitching her tent in a nice quiet spot overlooking the forest. She’s an excellent worker, has a shared love for the ocean, poetry & solo time and makes delicious food. She wasn‘t afraid… read more
(Excellent)
19 Jan 2020
Left by Workawayer (Alison) for host
Hori's place is amazing! The week I was there I did lots of varied tasks and always felt like I was working in a team, rather than being told what to do, which was great. Hori makes healthy, beautiful meals, and living in the cabin is a good way to experience low carbon, zero plastic living. He took us to the beach several times and to see a… read more
14 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Alison)
Alison stayed a week and is a good worker. She helped weed, clear rubbish from the chicken run, build ponga fence, stain workshop and trap for possums. She was very busy with getting personal things organised in town the week she stayed with us but still got her five hours of work done every day. She loved being around Tama my autistic nephew and… read more
(Excellent)
19 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
Hori’s place was our 1rst workaway.
We’ll never forget this meeting !
Our time here was amazing; full of exchange, sharing, and kindness.
We went to NZ to connect us to the nature ; Hori’s place is the place to be for that ! 🌳🌿
He has a lovely family and his girlfriend Stefie is so adorable 😇 . They are both generous people, grateful and… read more
We’ll never forget this meeting !
Our time here was amazing; full of exchange, sharing, and kindness.
We went to NZ to connect us to the nature ; Hori’s place is the place to be for that ! 🌳🌿
He has a lovely family and his girlfriend Stefie is so adorable 😇 . They are both generous people, grateful and… read more
18 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Carine & Charles stayed a week. This was their first workaway experience. They are a great, easy going couple with a good work ethic. They helped clear weeds in the garden, mow lawns, clear tracks, clear chicken run, check traps, tidy house and also made delicious crepes. It was really nice having another couple of similar age at home to share… read more
(Excellent)
14 Nov 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (AndreaJomain)
Andrea was an absolute pleasure to host. She is a very polite, kind, caring woman who shows great initiative around the home and always asks if she can help with anything. She helped in the garden, cleared chicken run, planted our first kumara crop and cut firewood. We really enjoyed sharing stories together around the fire under a full moon.… read more
(Excellent)
14 Nov 2019
Left by Workawayer (AndreaJomain) for host
A very big thank you to Hori and Steph for their warm welcome and their positive attitude.
I stayed one week at Hori's home and it was just a wonderful place, so calm and relax, lost in the countryside and next to the forest where you can make some beautiful walks.
I really appreciated my stay with Hori as he is an amazing, funny and happy host… read more
I stayed one week at Hori's home and it was just a wonderful place, so calm and relax, lost in the countryside and next to the forest where you can make some beautiful walks.
I really appreciated my stay with Hori as he is an amazing, funny and happy host… read more
23 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Judit)
Judit is a very special lady. She has a nice energy with so much knowledge and experience. I enjoyed the time I had with her talking life, love and philosophy. After visiting 31 countries she has so many examples to explain topics. She helped me tidy the pā harakeke and used the leaves for mulch around the fruit trees; bush walk to set traps;… read more
(Excellent)
8 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Stefanie) for host
If you love nature and if you want to have a real local kiwi experience then you‘re absolutely right here.
I stayed for five weeks at the cabin and all I can say is that this place is simply magical. The bush has so much amazing energy to offer. The gardens are full of deliscious wonders, the family near by is extremely lovely and the views are… read more
I stayed for five weeks at the cabin and all I can say is that this place is simply magical. The bush has so much amazing energy to offer. The gardens are full of deliscious wonders, the family near by is extremely lovely and the views are… read more
5 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Stefanie)
Stef stayed 5 weeks (longest stay by a workawayer to date). She is a very special woman & has travelled on and off for the last 12 years so has a wealth of experiences to draw on in everything she does. She is not afraid of anything (literally) and loves challenging herself with new/difficult tasks. She loaded all the bait stations by herself… read more
(Excellent)
8 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Nikita) for host
I spend 10 days in Hori place and it was a really good experience ! I was happy to meet a young and traveler maori/ host ! That's changes :) His eco-house is very lost in the bush, with just the sound of the birds and zero plastic (but still near to the town Opotiki if you need something). I really enjoyed to discover how tu put possums trapp and… read more
8 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nikita)
Nikita stayed for just over a week with her friend Gabby. She was a pleasure to host. I enjoyed her positive energy, initiative and French lessons. It was great to share bush knowledge and Maori culture with her. All the best with your many future travels :pray_tone4::green_heart:
(Excellent)
8 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Gabby)
Gabby stayed just over a week with her friend Nikita. I was honoured to be her first workaway experience. I enjoyed her positive energy, open mindedness and new music introductions. I was also grateful to witness her planting her first tree. Thank you Gabby, all the best with your future dreams, keep drawing, you’ve got mad skills… read more
(Excellent)
8 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Gabby) for host
Hori is an incredibly welcoming, smart, and fun host who is easy to get along with. I very much enjoyed staying in his charming little home and exploring the bush that surrounds it. I loved hearing him share his knowledge about the trees, plants, and birds as we walked through the bush, as well as his knowledge and stories surrounding Maori… read more
12 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Sinuhé) for host
That days with Hori was a beautiful time in a amazing place, the forest that Hori takes care of is gorgeus. I just say thanks for everything, to share your knowledge about the maorí culture, trees, plants, birds, stars... and thanks for your friendship and hospitality. I carry one of the best memories and friends from Aotearoa, Kia Ora whanau!!
2 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Sinuhé)
Mi hermano Sinhue es un buen hombre feliz! Sinhue stayed with me for over two weeks helping me garden, build a chicken run, load rat bait stations, collect firewood and trap possums. On his days off he chilled, explored local bush walks and beaches. Because I took ten days off work, I was also able to take him spear fishing, surfing and weaving.… read more
(Excellent)
1 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Nancydr) for host
I spent my first week in New Zealand at Hori's place and it couldn't have been better!
Hori is the most smiling, chill and welcoming guy I've ever met. He really makes you feel at home and cooks absolutely delicious meals! He knows so much about the Maori's culture and is always eager to share it.
I really enjoyed spending time on his beautiful… read more
Hori is the most smiling, chill and welcoming guy I've ever met. He really makes you feel at home and cooks absolutely delicious meals! He knows so much about the Maori's culture and is always eager to share it.
I really enjoyed spending time on his beautiful… read more
28 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nancydr)
Nancy stayed with me for one week coming straight from Auckland a couple of nights after arriving in NZ. She was pretty jet lagged and did really well with the tasks while I unfortunately had to go to work. She has a nice nature and is a good worker. I really enjoyed hearing about her travel stories and talking life, and dreams. I had comitted to… read more
(Excellent)
20 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Marie) for host
Thanks Hori for this very nice Workaway. I stayed 2 weeks in Opotiki in Hori’s family. I helped them for works outside. I was a very good time. I really appreciate share experiences, travel, music with him and his family ! Only good vibes, nature and Maori Culture. I hope see you soon muchas gracias para todo un abrazo !!
31 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Marie)
Marie stayed for two weeks. It was nice to have a workawayer arrive after many pulling out last minute. She helped with trapping, gardening, cleaning and sanding. On her days off she enjoyed some of the local hikes. She is really carefree and easy going. This was appreciated because I was away the first week for work. Overall Marie was a pleasure… read more
(Excellent)
31 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalia & Maria Laura)
Natalia es una mujer increíble. Ella tiene una energía muy cariñosa, amable. Fue un placer hospedarla y presentarle el entorno natural de Nueva Zelanda y mi familia. Espero volver a conectar un día en Uruguay hermana. mucho amor y respeto
(Excellent)
1 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Natalia & Maria Laura) for host
Hori es una gran persona! Un nuevo amigo que el universo me dio!
Alojarme en su casa desde el primer día fue como ser parte de ello desde siempre, las tareas a realizar implicaban la tierra y el hogar. La 3 comidas de cada día fueron excelentes, tanto como el alojamiento! Un proyecto hermoso que viene creciendo y así continuara por la buena… read more
Alojarme en su casa desde el primer día fue como ser parte de ello desde siempre, las tareas a realizar implicaban la tierra y el hogar. La 3 comidas de cada día fueron excelentes, tanto como el alojamiento! Un proyecto hermoso que viene creciendo y así continuara por la buena… read more
8 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Canelle) for host
Hori is just amazing, I don't have enough words to describe him but it's just rare to find a host like him. Full of energy, knowledge, smiling all the time and doing everything to make you confortable. You can talk about everything, open mind, musician, really good cooker, he never stop to surprise you. I really enjoyed all the moment and spend… read more
8 Apr 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Canelle)
Canelle is a really nice down to earth woman. She has much experience and knowledge from her various travels. She is an unreal worker and puts love and time into everything she does. She helped me paint the house and I felt comfortable leaving her at home while I went away for work. Very honest and trustworthy. It was great coming home from work… read more
(Excellent)
4 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Robert) for host
Hori is an amazing guy and his house/property was unreal. I loved my time here so much I came back three times. I learnt so much from Hori and felt so at home at his place, can't recommend this place enough I want to come back already. Let me know if you ever in the UK bro.
8 Apr 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Robert)
Bob is an awesome bro, he has a wealth of knowledge and experience for only 19 years of age. I really appreciated his help painting the house. He came with no painting experience and quickly became a pro. A very fast learner. Impressive eater, good worker, good lawn mower. Thanks heaps bro, happy to share this peaceful place with you.
(Excellent)
29 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Brent & Jordan)
Brent & Jordan were a pleasure to host. Unfortunately I had to work during the week days but it was amazing to come home after work to jobs that had been done! They are both very good workers and I enjoyed doing some conservation work in the bush with them. Thanks for sharing your NZ adventure with me and giving the bush and property some love and… read more
(Excellent)
29 Jan 2018
Left by Workawayer (Brent & Jordan) for host
Hori was a fantastic host for our 8 day stay with him on his beautiful patch of native bush. He gave us a fascinating introduction to the Maori history, culture and language which is also deeply integrated with the natural environment of the NZ bush. We enjoyed exploring his large plot of healthy native bush with is packed with beautiful birds and… read more
11 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Fabio is nice guy and a very good worker. It was good to share ideas with him about life and connect him to the NZ forest and birds. He helped me paint prep and clear a fence line. Thanks heaps for your help. :blush:
(Excellent)
11 Jan 2018
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
Hori is such an interesting and welcoming guy, I wish I could have stayed longer. His house and the property is an exciting project and I really enjoyed the kind of work we did. The food was amazing and I got to learn a lot about New Zealand’s nature and culture.
Thank you so much for that!
Thank you so much for that!
