Profile information
Host rating
85 %
Last replied
3 Jan 2026
Reply rate
88.9 %
Usually responds within 1 day
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Details
Description
I am a retired dress designer and having run a business in London for many years, have now returned to my native New Zealand to create a large permaculture - based garden in rural Taranaki. Having just finished building (the third house in ten years) I have recently surrounded it with an eclectic mix of fruit, vegetables and flowers.
I would enjoy working together and exchanging ideas as we go, and love to use my design principles, gained from being in the dress trade, in the garden.
As I have just undergone (successful) brain surgery, and am currently in recovery, I find myself with a temporarily much reduced capacity for garden work, and also have an automatic 6 month driving ban, so am unable to offer food and cooking. The sleepout on offer is fully equipped, but the applicants would definitely need a car, and be prepared to cook their own food. The hours of requested work have been reduced accordingly.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Interests
Fitness
Events & social
Fashion or beauty
Movies & TV
Charity work
DIY & crafts
Books
Plant care
Cooking & food
Art & design
Gardening
Outdoor activities
Nature
Yoga / Wellness
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Although I am a New Zealander by birth, I have lived in England and travelled extensively in France and Italy, I like to share travel experiences and design ideas.
Help
As all the gardening is done organically, help to clear or block pernicious weeds and create a base for new planting.I could also do with some internet help!
Languages
Languages spoken
English: FluentThis 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
Accomodation in a self-contained unit, 20 metres away from the main house, with a fitted kitchen, a bedroom and a bathroom/laundry. There is plenty of parking space, and you would need a car, as New Plymouth is a 20 min drive away and there is no public transport from Lepperton.
What else ...
Walking on our wonderful coastal walkway, surfing, climbing the mountain, visiting the Len Lye Gallery and the excellent local museums.
I prefer to have the evenings to myself, but am happy to have dinner together on the first night.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Good wifi connection available 24/7
Space for parking camper vans
Plenty of space outside the sleepout if needed
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Archie
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