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Engage with nature conservation and self-contained cottage living in scenic Omarama, Otago, New Zealand

Availability

  2026 

 Min stay requested: 1 month or more

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    We have a rural property on the shores of Lake Benmore between Omarama and Otematata. The property forms part of an original high country farm. We have been slowly rejuvenating the property; removing pest plants and planting local indigenous plants, building new gardens and fences, cleaning and tidying old buildings and outside areas. Our new trees/shrubs need watering in the summer months and wire cages made to protect them from the rabbits. There are also lawns to water and mow and leaves to rake up. There is a small camping ground on the property, it is currently closed.

    We are a family with 4 grown up children. Bob and Mary who are the owners, live on the property.

    We are looking for a couple or pair of friends who would like a self contained cottage in exchange for approx. 12.5 hours of help a week per person.

    We have the Alps to Ocean A2O cycle track across the road, great fishing, swimming, and areas to explore.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Help with Eco Projects
    Light gardening
    Creative DIY projects
    Help around the house
    Light maintenance
    House & pet sitting
  • Interests

    Interests

    Culture
    Politics / Social justice
    Sustainability
    Pets
    Farming
    Self development
    Music
    History
    DIY & crafts
    Cooking & food
    Plant care
    Books
    Art & design
    Gardening
    Architecture
    Animals
    Fitness
    Sailing / Boating
    Outdoor activities
    Adventure sports
    Nature
    Camping
    Water sports
    Hiking
    Cycling
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Experience the arid landscape and history of the Upper Waitaki valley. The Omarama basin has the coldest and hottest temperatures in NZ. Learn about the unique flora and fauna that have adapted to this area. Historically the Maori travelled up the Waitaki river in search of summer provisions. Visit caves showing their rock art. More recently the Waitaki has been tamed for hydro power. Visit the impressive Benmore Earth Dam and learn about our sustainable hydro scheme that powers NZ . This area is also famous for merino sheep farming, gliding and trout/salmon fishing.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

    This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

  • Help

    Help

    We are offering a self-contained house in exchange for approx. 12.5 hours a week per person. Help may include gardening, cleaning, general maintenance and various small building projects.

    Looking for a couple or a pair of friends.

    Own transport required to allow you to explore the local area and reach the local towns (10mins drive) for groceries and supplies.

    We would love you to stay for at least a month, with longer term stays even more ideal.

  • Languages spoken

    English: Fluent

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    We will provide a self-contained cottage. Including a double bed (and twin singles), all bedding, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, indoor and outdoor living spaces. You will have privacy and be able to come and go as you please.

    There is a supermarket in Omarama where you can get groceries, and cook for yourselves in the cottage kitchen. We enjoy sharing morning tea and dinner together on occasion and the opportunity to get to know you.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    There are many local areas to explore on your days off and we are happy to give you some recommendations. We have bikes you can borrow, great for use on the Alps to Ocean cycle track which is just across from our front gate.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Space for parking camper vans

    Space for parking camper vans

    Lots of space and power supply for campervans

  • Can possibly accept pets

    Can possibly accept pets

    This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

    Merino sheep

    We have merino wethers in our paddocks. These are shorn annually in October and their very fine wool is a valuable NZ export product.

    Kahu (4 years)

    A Collie Vizla cross.

Host ref number: 213369568841

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