Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
1 Oct 2023
Feedback
12
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
Hi and welcome to our eco project. We are establishing this place at Waipu Caves - a supportive refuge for self discovery and healing through a deep connection with nature.
Set amongst the majestic limestone formations and sacred underground passageways of Te Ana Waipu (Waipu Caves), the property rests on 14 hectares of native bush and pasture. The huge limestone cave system covers some four square kilometres and is home to millions of glow worms adorning the cavernous ceilings and freshwater koura in the chilly Pools below. There are swimming holes surrounded by native trees in the river a short walk away. The beautiful beaches of Bream Bay are just 15 minutes away!
We are making our vision a reality - and we need your help.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are setting this property up from scratch. You will have a great opportunity to gain all sorts of very practical skills including building, gardening, vegetarian/vegan cooking, fencing and track making. You are welcome to join us for morning yoga or find a quiet place for your own contemplation. We set out to have a lot of fun!
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
In the past year we have built a small cottage and put a roof over two containers. We are completely off grid and have our own spring water supply. Over the coming summer months we will complete the work we have started and establish more infrastructure about the property.
There are a multitude of different task we need help with and your help would be greatly appreciated. Our current projects include:
• Upgrading our water system
• Upgrading toilets and showers
• Pruning trees
• Earth bag building
• Gardening
• And more…..
This is a great opportunity to learn new skills. Alistair and Caroline have hosted many working holiday travelers over the years and have lots of skills and experience to share.
We look forward to meeting you.
Languages
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Maori: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
Caroline is fluent in German, French and English. Alistair speaks English and a little te reo.
Accommodation
You will enjoy staying in our converted 1950 Ford Bus that provides your own hideaway with space to relax and work. It is connected to our solar power system and has it's own shower, kitchenette, fridge etc.
Basic food supplies will be provided for your breakfast and supper. We generally share the cooking for a main meal early afternoon. Please bring your own snacks, super foods and personal dietary requirements.
What else ...
This is a magical place with caves and walks close by and beaches a short drive away and lots to explore. It is good to have your own car to get out and about. We are 13km from the nearest shop at Waipu township. It's another 10km or so for surfing. Whangarei is the nearest city 19km away.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
We can offer accommodation in our converted 1950 Ford Bus that provides your own hideaway with space to work.
Space for parking camper vans
You are very welcome to come and stay with your own vehicle. There is plenty of parking and we can hook you up to our solar power system as necessary
Can possibly accept pets
Yes but by prior negotiation and a trial period. Any pets must be cat and dog and horse friendly; also chicken and dove friendly.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
5 hours a day 5 days per week
Feedback (10)
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)
This place is amazing,
we learnt so many things.
The only regret is to cannot stay more
Thank you for everything
Patricia came to stay at a time when I had to be off the property and she managed everything from feeding horses, ducks and chickens to cleaning in and around the house. I could not have wished for more!
The tasks are varied. Some of them are gardening, cutting trees, making paths for their 4 horses, building a roof,… read more
