Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
7 Sep 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 8 days
Feedback
85
Facebook verified
Email verified
Badges (4)
Give the gift of Workaway
read more
Details
Description
I have recently moved into Darfield into a three bedroom house, with a large garden, on a quiet street in Darfield. It's a blank canvas and I have big plans for the garden - fruit and vegetables, native trees and bird and insect havens.
I have currently have 20 sheep who are very friendly, all have names and their own stories to tell. They are staying a couple of kms away at a friends field. I also have 2 dogs and a cat, all of who are friendly and love attention.
Celia (a solo Mum) works 7 days a week (some days from home) providing support for Doctors and Medical Centre's, as well as looking after the kids, animals and everything else!
Freya (12) attends school in Darfield. My son Leon now goes to school in Christchurch and lives with my mother.
Freya dances A LOT and competes in hip hop, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, acrobatics and aerobics! She is also learning to play the piano, violin and recorder. She also rides her pony at pony club when time permits.
Leon (15) competes in downhill mountain biking and likes to scare me with videos of his crazy bike jumps and descents.
At my old house (on a small farm) I grew lots of vegetables and fruit in our garden, filled the freezer with home grown and home made food (meat/vegetables/fruit) and lead a wholesome life. I'd like to get back to that point at my new house. The garden is empty, I have so many projects to get started on and I really need some help.
I am also looking for help with the animals and maintenance/upgrade projects at my new house.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Interests
Sustainability
Farming
Self development
Pets
Gardening
Animals
Outdoor activities
Cycling
Winter sports
Dancing
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
This would be the chance to experience a kiwi family lifestyle. I can share my knowledge (as able) of farm skills, animal husbandry, gardening, environmental management, sustainable living and maintenance skills.
Helping us would mean you could become part of our household and family. Previous helpers remain in contact with us and some even plan to return to visit us on their next trip to NZ. We've made some wonderful friends through hosting our previous visitors, and we hope that you could become friends for life.
Help
HELP NEEDED
I need help with the following....
- Looking after and feeding the animals: dogs, cat, sheep.
- Outside chores - for example: gardening ~ weed clearing ~ stacking wood ~ digging ~ house and building maintenance.
We NEVER run out of jobs inside or outside the house!
We have easy access to lots of things in Darfield: Supermarket, library, fuel stations, shops, cafes, bakery, gym, forest walks.
The company is fun and it's a safe, friendly home.
The help we need would be approx. 20-25 hours per person each week....depending on the weather , how physical the jobs are or just how the timing works out.
So, if you want to stay with us and have access to family and fun then this may be just what you need!
We would need you to:
-speak a fairly good standard of English
-be a non-smoker (100%)
-stay for a minimum of two weeks
-be able to lift items (no back/shoulder injuries)
I can cater for and accommodate meat eaters, vegetarians, gluten free and Coeliac diets. Any other dietary requirements can be discussed but purchase of specialised foods would be the workawayers responsibility.
I have two (very friendly) dogs and a cat who live in the house too, so you need to be happy to have animals around you.
There is a daily (Mon-Fri) bus from Christchurch to Darfield if you have no transport of your own, or I may be able to collect you from Christchurch if I'm heading into town.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Welsh: Beginner
French: Beginner
Accommodation
Everything would be provided for you including fun, food, internet, washing machine, fresh air and a vast DVD library!
You would have good company, lots of new experiences, a room to stay in and no living costs.
What else ...
We are close to the mountains, Arthur's Pass, Castle Hill (features in Lord of the Rings & Narnia), Cave Stream, 2 Ski fields (Mount Hutt and Porters ski fields), Rakaia Gorge (Salmon fishing), Waimakariri Gorge (swimming place), local amenities in Darfield (big ice creams at the dairy, shops, library, post shop, mechanincs etc), and only an hour from Christchurch City centre.
NZ, and Canterbury specifically is the best place to live in the world!
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Unlimited WiFi from my mobile phone hot-spot, so when I'm out there's no Internet. I'm home a lot of the time though!
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Kitty Cat (3 years)
Kitty cat is the boss of us. She lets us live in her house and if we're lucky she'll let us give her cuddles, food and praise. She is very bossy and has a lot of opinions about most things.
Poppy
Poppy only has a few brain cells. Bless her.
One is for food, one for cuddles. Another is for chasing rabbits and the last one is for finding the most weird position to sleep in.
Boy (8 years)
My third child.
Should have called him FOMO
Retired sheep dog.
Worships the cat.
Coolest dog in the world
Host ref number: 243694144434
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+21
Feedback (29)
4 Sep 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Victor & Quentin)
Victor and Quentin are amazing!
They were hard working, enthusiastic, such good company and we loved having them stay with us. They helped me move house back in June - I really can't rate them enough as they were epic. They are two exceptional young men and I highly recommend them as workawayers.
They are welcome back (as guests and friends) any… read more
They were hard working, enthusiastic, such good company and we loved having them stay with us. They helped me move house back in June - I really can't rate them enough as they were epic. They are two exceptional young men and I highly recommend them as workawayers.
They are welcome back (as guests and friends) any… read more
(Excellent
)
9 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Najla & Alessandro)
We were extremely lucky to have Alessandro & Najla stay with us for a few weeks. They helped with so many things, painting, house DIY, moving many boxes (had to declutter the house in a rush for viewings) and were so accommodating to whatever the next urgent project was! They did gardening, bush cutting, weeding, moving hay, and were both AMAZING… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellen)
Ellen is fabulous! She's a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm with a really positive attitude and 'can do' approach to life.
She stayed for just shy of two weeks, but we'll never forget her as she's fun to have around, but at the same time really helpful.
Ellen was great at working through the everyday tasks thoroughly and efficiently, then was… read more
She stayed for just shy of two weeks, but we'll never forget her as she's fun to have around, but at the same time really helpful.
Ellen was great at working through the everyday tasks thoroughly and efficiently, then was… read more
(Excellent
)
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+21
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)
4 Sep 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Victor & Quentin)
Victor and Quentin are amazing!
They were hard working, enthusiastic, such good company and we loved having them stay with us. They helped me move house back in June - I really can't rate them enough as they were epic. They are two exceptional young men and I highly recommend them as workawayers.
They are welcome back (as guests and friends) any… read more
They were hard working, enthusiastic, such good company and we loved having them stay with us. They helped me move house back in June - I really can't rate them enough as they were epic. They are two exceptional young men and I highly recommend them as workawayers.
They are welcome back (as guests and friends) any… read more
(Excellent)
9 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Najla & Alessandro)
We were extremely lucky to have Alessandro & Najla stay with us for a few weeks. They helped with so many things, painting, house DIY, moving many boxes (had to declutter the house in a rush for viewings) and were so accommodating to whatever the next urgent project was! They did gardening, bush cutting, weeding, moving hay, and were both AMAZING… read more
(Excellent)
28 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellen)
Ellen is fabulous! She's a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm with a really positive attitude and 'can do' approach to life.
She stayed for just shy of two weeks, but we'll never forget her as she's fun to have around, but at the same time really helpful.
Ellen was great at working through the everyday tasks thoroughly and efficiently, then was… read more
She stayed for just shy of two weeks, but we'll never forget her as she's fun to have around, but at the same time really helpful.
Ellen was great at working through the everyday tasks thoroughly and efficiently, then was… read more
(Excellent)
4 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Sophia & Emily)
I loved having Emily and Sophia stay with us. They were delightful in every way.
Both are very good riders. They were very diligent, effective and thorough with all their work. Could be relied on to self manage, and were very helpful every day around the household.
They're definitely worth hosting, I'd have them come back in the blink of an… read more
Both are very good riders. They were very diligent, effective and thorough with all their work. Could be relied on to self manage, and were very helpful every day around the household.
They're definitely worth hosting, I'd have them come back in the blink of an… read more
(Excellent)
1 Feb 2025
Left by Workawayer (Sophia & Emily) for host
We had a wonderful time staying with Celia. We loved her warm home and her wonderful animals (we will miss the dogs, lambs, horses, sheep and the cat!!) . Celia made us feel very welcome and at home whilst we stayed with her, and shared with us lots of knowledge and advice about New Zealand as well as giving us recommendations for the rest of our… read more
4 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Clément & Lena)
Clement and Lena were great helpers when they stayed for a month over the Christmas and new year period.
Both are delightful individuals, with really pragmatic outlooks on life. Both were very capable doing all kinds of jobs.
Lena is a capable and considerate rider, she rode my younger horse well, and was very good in all horse related jobs.… read more
Both are delightful individuals, with really pragmatic outlooks on life. Both were very capable doing all kinds of jobs.
Lena is a capable and considerate rider, she rode my younger horse well, and was very good in all horse related jobs.… read more
(Excellent)
4 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Sara)
Sara was a delight to host and she helped out in all kinds of jobs. She has a very positive demeanor, with a real 'can do' attitude.
Sara is a good intermediate rider, with lots of enthusiasm and self reflection.
She is also a great baker! And lots of fun. Good conversations and overall a great work away volunteer.
I greatly appreciated her… read more
Sara is a good intermediate rider, with lots of enthusiasm and self reflection.
She is also a great baker! And lots of fun. Good conversations and overall a great work away volunteer.
I greatly appreciated her… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Sara) for host
I had the loveliest stay at Celia's place this Decemeber. She expected 5 hours a day and was very flexible with how those hours were distributed. Care for the animals was easy and I loved getting to know her sheep, lambs, ponies, dogs, and kitty. Celia offered riding of her ponies as often as we had dry, good weather days, and she has a wealth of… read more
27 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (sina92) for host
We stayed with Celia and her two kids for about two weeks. The location of the farm is beautiful, however we would recommend you a vehicle of our own so you may also explore the surroundings. Celia was very welcoming, helpful and flexible and we were even invited to stay longer or return if we liked :)
We had a great time looking after all her… read more
We had a great time looking after all her… read more
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (sina92)
Sina and Fred were delightful to host and they were incredibly helpful.
Both were very capable, intelligent and thoughtful. Fred built the most amazing set of planting tables for my conservatory - they will be well used and are epic. Sina tackled the vegetable garden and got a huge amount of prep work done for the spring - weeding, turning beds,… read more
Both were very capable, intelligent and thoughtful. Fred built the most amazing set of planting tables for my conservatory - they will be well used and are epic. Sina tackled the vegetable garden and got a huge amount of prep work done for the spring - weeding, turning beds,… read more
(Excellent)
2 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Jana)
Jana is a great workawayer, and she's a lovely person to have stay. We're very happy that she came to help us.
Jana is an excellent rider, great with both my ponies, one of whom can be a bit hard to get to trust you. She's very capable with all the animals. She worked on the sheep and lambs with me and I didn't really have to teach her much about… read more
Jana is an excellent rider, great with both my ponies, one of whom can be a bit hard to get to trust you. She's very capable with all the animals. She worked on the sheep and lambs with me and I didn't really have to teach her much about… read more
(Excellent)
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah)
Hannah is a lovely young lady who will experience success in life as she is honest, hard working and very respectful. She's very considerate and helped out with all kinds of jobs around the farm. She helped with weeding, gardening, looking after and riding the horses, feeding the sheep and lots of tidying up outside.
Her help was greatly… read more
Her help was greatly… read more
(Excellent)
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Claire)
Claire is one of the most lovely, warm and thoughtful people you'd ever wish to meet.
She is very competent with the horses - great with all of the animals actually, and was very practical. She potted up a lot of seeds, baby seedlings and plants, mowed a lot of grass, both with the ride on and the hand held mower, she sprayed many many thistles… read more
She is very competent with the horses - great with all of the animals actually, and was very practical. She potted up a lot of seeds, baby seedlings and plants, mowed a lot of grass, both with the ride on and the hand held mower, she sprayed many many thistles… read more
(Excellent)
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Ruby & Jack)
Ruby and Jack were amazing!
We were incredibly lucky to be able to host them both. They helped me through the busiest period of the year and tackled every challenge and job with gusto, enthusiasm and did a great job every time. They were extremely capable, helping me with all kinds of different jobs - so much so I think they did several things… read more
We were incredibly lucky to be able to host them both. They helped me through the busiest period of the year and tackled every challenge and job with gusto, enthusiasm and did a great job every time. They were extremely capable, helping me with all kinds of different jobs - so much so I think they did several things… read more
(Excellent)
29 Oct 2024
Left by Workawayer (Ruby & Jack) for host
In one sentence to summarise our experience we would say that: we loved every minute. Celia and her family welcomed us with open arms and made us feel right at home instantly.
Jack and I are so greatful for this experience we have gained and the memories we have made on Celia's farm.
We were fortunate enough to stay during lambing season which… read more
Jack and I are so greatful for this experience we have gained and the memories we have made on Celia's farm.
We were fortunate enough to stay during lambing season which… read more
6 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Ruby)
Ruby was extremely helpful when she stayed with us. She single handedly planted a gazillion cabbage trees and did a lot of very useful work in and out of the house.
She's very clever, a big thinker, and has a very high moral compass which I have a lot of respect for.
For someone so young she's got a lot to offer the world, and I think she'll go… read more
She's very clever, a big thinker, and has a very high moral compass which I have a lot of respect for.
For someone so young she's got a lot to offer the world, and I think she'll go… read more
(Excellent)
6 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Lani & Patrick )
Lani and Patrick....
Come back - we miss you!
We miss Lani's wicked sense of humour, amazing crochet skills, and her determination. We miss Patrick's laugh, his fabulous cooking and his chilled out personality.
They helped with all kinds of jobs in and out of the house: gardening, tidying up, moving a heck of a lot of tree branches, leaves and… read more
Come back - we miss you!
We miss Lani's wicked sense of humour, amazing crochet skills, and her determination. We miss Patrick's laugh, his fabulous cooking and his chilled out personality.
They helped with all kinds of jobs in and out of the house: gardening, tidying up, moving a heck of a lot of tree branches, leaves and… read more
(Excellent)
6 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Clare)
Clare stayed with us for a couple of weeks. She flew in from her latest adventures and fitted in straight away.
Clare was really helpful out on the farm, doing all kinds of jobs outside. She was really interesting to talk to, for someone so young she's travelled lots and is very clever!
We'd welcome her back in a blink - my daughter thinks she's… read more
Clare was really helpful out on the farm, doing all kinds of jobs outside. She was really interesting to talk to, for someone so young she's travelled lots and is very clever!
We'd welcome her back in a blink - my daughter thinks she's… read more
(Excellent)
6 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Pia Marie)
Pia stayed with us for a couple of weeks and she was lovely! She was extremely helpful, did a whole range of jobs (weeding, moving tree debris, horse paddock maintenance and poo picking, wood stacking and heaps more) that really helped me.
She integrated into our household very easily, accompanied us to a dance competition and was lovely to have… read more
She integrated into our household very easily, accompanied us to a dance competition and was lovely to have… read more
(Excellent)
24 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Calixte)
Calixte was great help on the farm. He did some massive and very physical jobs while he stayed with us, always to a high standard and always very efficiently.
He had lots of common sense and practical skills, is strong and very methodical. He worked regardless of the weather and was extremely reliable.
He's also very I telligent and we had some… read more
He had lots of common sense and practical skills, is strong and very methodical. He worked regardless of the weather and was extremely reliable.
He's also very I telligent and we had some… read more
(Excellent)
24 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Laura)
Laura is delightful and I can't rate her highly enough as she's a brilliant workawayer!
She did every job to the highest of standard, was energised, methodical and efficient. She enjoyed working with the animals and was a real asset to have on the farm.
In addition to her awesome help, she's a wonderful person and lovely to have around. Great… read more
She did every job to the highest of standard, was energised, methodical and efficient. She enjoyed working with the animals and was a real asset to have on the farm.
In addition to her awesome help, she's a wonderful person and lovely to have around. Great… read more
(Excellent)
14 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (William)
Will is one of the best workawayers we've ever had stay with us. He's fun, capable, interesting and willing to give anything a go. My kids adore him, and wish he could stay for ever! He's very good at problem solving, doing hard physical work without even hesitating, and gets jobs done to a very high standard.
Will is definitely someone to say yes… read more
Will is definitely someone to say yes… read more
(Excellent)
14 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Klara)
Clara and Caroline were great! They helped me with all kinds of jobs and were capable enough to house sit for me while I went away for a week of much needed family time. Clara is an excellent rider - with a quiet and gentle seat, but very clear in how she communicates to the horses - it was a pleasure to watch her ride. Caroline was someone who… read more
(Excellent)
20 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Melanie ) for host
I spent two weeks at the beautiful farm in Darfield. I really had the best time. I have just started my solo travels and couldn't have picked a better place to stay. Celia is such a lovely person. While I was doing my chores, which were really easy, I was able to enjoy the great views and the company of two of the friendliest dogs I have ever met.… read more
18 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Lora)
Lora stayed with me for just over a week - and I would have had her stay longer if I'd had space at the house as she and her friend Felix were wonderful! Both spoke fluent English, were lovely company and helped with lots of jobs. They worked really well and did each job thoroughly and to a high standard. They were respectful about house rules and… read more
(Excellent)
12 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Katharina Elena Fadia)
Kati was lovely and so helpful during her stay. She's thoughtful and considerate, thinks outside the box and is very motivated. She'll go far in life as takes every challenge on with enthusiasm and is very methodical.
I can highly recommend hosting Kati as she's honest and reliable.
I can highly recommend hosting Kati as she's honest and reliable.
(Excellent)
20 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Annika) for host
Celia was the most welcoming host Mum I could have wished for. She was super spontaneous, my other workaway ditched me last minute, and made it work out for me. I loved her family, namely her two kids, two dogs, a kitty, some sheep and during the time I was there three other workawayers as well. We had really good talks about Kiwi culture and… read more
18 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Annika)
Annika is a lovely person - warm, friendly with immaculate English and lots of useful skills to bring to the party. Annika stayed nearly two weeks with us and was a delight to host. She helped do so many different types of jobs, form gardening, removing fencing, grubbing thousands of unwanted thistles from the field, and splitting a million logs… read more
(Excellent)
19 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Rebecca)
Rebecca is an amazing person. She agreed to stay for a couple of weeks and ended up staying several weeks - for which we are very lucky as she brought so much to our house and lives. She is kind, considerate, capable, strong, skilled and very practical. There seemed to be no end to her skill set. She's knowledgeable and capable with sheep and… read more
(Excellent)
18 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Euan & Kirsty)
We were incredibly lucky to have Euan and Kirsty stay with us. They had originally agreed to stay for a couple of weeks, but it ended up being several weeks and every day was a blessing!
Euan is one of the most motivated and likeable people I've met in a long time! He's intelligent, can think outside the box and is very skilled at all kinds of… read more
Euan is one of the most motivated and likeable people I've met in a long time! He's intelligent, can think outside the box and is very skilled at all kinds of… read more
(Excellent)
18 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Isaac)
We LOVED having Isaac stay with us for so many reasons!
Isaac worked incredibly hard whilst he stayed with us - he was really motivated and I really couldn't have got the work he did completed without his help. We had storm damaged trees from September 2021 still piled up waiting to be processed. I'd done about 2/3 of the damaged trees myself but… read more
Isaac worked incredibly hard whilst he stayed with us - he was really motivated and I really couldn't have got the work he did completed without his help. We had storm damaged trees from September 2021 still piled up waiting to be processed. I'd done about 2/3 of the damaged trees myself but… read more
(Excellent)
10 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Isaac) for host
I stayed with Celia for around 2 weeks and really enjoyed my stay , she was very accommodating therefore I felt very welcomed into the family , the food was delicious and I had a large room to stay in so there was plenty of privacy when needed .
The property is surrounded by breathtaking scenery hence there is plenty to do within a reasonable… read more
The property is surrounded by breathtaking scenery hence there is plenty to do within a reasonable… read more
18 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Marina Anja)
Marina is a lovely person and is an excellent rider and worker.
Marina slotted in to our lives seamlessly and was lovely to have around. She was thorough and very capable with all of her tasks. I had Marina helping with my four horses. One excitable and experienced 16.3 TB mare, one 14.1 young and green crossbred mare, a 13.1 section B pony for… read more
Marina slotted in to our lives seamlessly and was lovely to have around. She was thorough and very capable with all of her tasks. I had Marina helping with my four horses. One excitable and experienced 16.3 TB mare, one 14.1 young and green crossbred mare, a 13.1 section B pony for… read more
(Excellent)
18 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Marina Anja) for host
I’ve been at Celia’s farm for nearly two weeks and I truly enjoyed every single day.
Celia is so kind hearted. Very busy but nevertheless she always has time for you and your concerns, for good conversations, answering questions, giving great recommendations, making wonderful food or starting a spontaneous adventure :D
Freya and Leon are so… read more
Celia is so kind hearted. Very busy but nevertheless she always has time for you and your concerns, for good conversations, answering questions, giving great recommendations, making wonderful food or starting a spontaneous adventure :D
Freya and Leon are so… read more
5 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Robin)
Robin stayed with us for 6 very happy weeks, and we were very sad when she had to leave for her next workaway.
During her stay Robin worked very hard with diligence, enthusiasm and with good competency. All her work was of a very high standard, was done in full and with a good attitude.
Robin is a big thinker, sometime over analysing things,… read more
During her stay Robin worked very hard with diligence, enthusiasm and with good competency. All her work was of a very high standard, was done in full and with a good attitude.
Robin is a big thinker, sometime over analysing things,… read more
(Excellent)
25 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Robin) for host
Wow!! In one word, I’ve described the whole experience at Celia’s place. This was my first workaway in New Zealand and it was absolutely brilliant, cannot say otherwise. I have spent 6 weeks here and was able to stay during Christmas and New Years, and my 30th birthday as well.
Upon my arrival I learned that there were other workers, a lovely… read more
Upon my arrival I learned that there were other workers, a lovely… read more
24 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Mira & Thelma)
Mira and Thelma are lovely girls and it was great having them stay with us. They both speak excellent English, are positive and warm people to be around, with lots of energy and enthusiasm.
They are both excellent horse riders and by excellent I mean REALLY good. They can safely and effectively work on difficult, excitable, young and regular… read more
They are both excellent horse riders and by excellent I mean REALLY good. They can safely and effectively work on difficult, excitable, young and regular… read more
(Excellent)
21 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Carlota & Marc)
We loved Marc and Carlota staying with us! They are wonderful people with great attitudes and it was a pleasure to be able to host them. They worked hard, doing all kinds of jobs, but what was really great was that they were able to use their skills and knowledge to do an awesome job. They were both very reliable, thorough and had a great… read more
(Excellent)
20 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Carlota & Marc) for host
Beautiful farm in an amazing landscape. Celia, Leon and Freya are a lovely family. We immediately felt at home with them. We stayed here for 2 weeks and time flew by. We learned a lot about kiwi culture as well as sheep farming. With all of the tasks we learned and improved our skills. We really loved joining their family at dinner time and… read more
25 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Bethany & Hugo)
Beth and Hugo are amazing! They fitted in really well into our household, were enthusiastic, willing and very able. Everything I asked for them to help with they gave 110% and did a great job. They worked really hard and wanted to get each of the projects finished to a high standard. They both picked up each task really quickly and it was really… read more
(Excellent)
24 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Bethany & Hugo) for host
We had such an incredible stay with Celia, Leon, Freya, Boy, Poppy and Kitty Cat! They were really welcoming and taught us a lot about New Zealand and the Maori culture. Freya and Leon were absolutely lovely kids and we had a lot of fun with them playing a few games or on the trampoline. Even though we didnt have any experience on a farm before,… read more
2 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Afonso & Stéphanie) for host
We spent a wonderful week with Celia, Leon, Freya, poppy, Boy, Kitty Cat , the horses , the goats and the sheep. Living on a farm was a new experience for us and we really loved it. Celia made us feel at home since the first day and we really appreciate that. She has always time to talk, to explain, to share even though she is very busy. The… read more
30 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Afonso & Stéphanie)
Stephanie, Afonso, Camile and Tomaz are awesome!
We absolutely loved having the family stay with us... there were genuine tears when they had to leave for their onwards journey x x x
Stephanie and Afonso are delightful people - capable, intelligent and forward thinking plus they were wonderful company. The kids are incredibly well behaved and… read more
We absolutely loved having the family stay with us... there were genuine tears when they had to leave for their onwards journey x x x
Stephanie and Afonso are delightful people - capable, intelligent and forward thinking plus they were wonderful company. The kids are incredibly well behaved and… read more
(Excellent)
1 Oct 2020
Left by Workawayer (Louise) for host
Ah Celia! I don't even know where to start. Thank you so much for taking me in and treating me like part of the family. I spent six weeks with Celia and her wonderful children (minus the tantrums! haha). I think Poppy (the dog) became my best friend along with Freya (the 7 year old), who I loved taking for pony rides and role playing customer at… read more
30 Aug 2020
Left by Workawayer (Alice) for host
Goodness where do I start?! Staying with Celia, Leon an Freya for six months was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. A workaway I was meant to be with for ten days quickly turned into half a year and I had a blast, and I have definitely gained a second family and two new wonderful little siblings!
Celia is the most welcoming,… read more
Celia is the most welcoming,… read more
24 Aug 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Alice)
Alice is the best!
She initially agreed to stay with us for a couple of weeks at the beginning of 2020, and she liked our place, and we liked her, so she stayed a bit longer. Then COVID hit, we went into lockdown, and then, before you know it, six months had passed!
Having Alice stay with us was brilliant. She worked and got on so well with all my… read more
She initially agreed to stay with us for a couple of weeks at the beginning of 2020, and she liked our place, and we liked her, so she stayed a bit longer. Then COVID hit, we went into lockdown, and then, before you know it, six months had passed!
Having Alice stay with us was brilliant. She worked and got on so well with all my… read more
(Excellent)
14 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (Juliana) for host
We had a wonderful time with Celia and the kids and our time spent on their farm offered us a great introduction to New Zealand life! We had wonderful accommodations in a little cottage detached from the house and enjoyed getting to know all of the animals on the farm by name! There were no dull moments as we were kept busy with the kids sporting… read more
11 Mar 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliana)
Juliana is a wonderful person. She has a smile for every occasion, has the best sense of humour and was a delight to have stay with us. She was adept, versatile and very capable with all the jobs on the farm and around the house, with a high attention to detail and was extremely efficient and considerate.
The BEST kind of workawayer.
We loved… read more
The BEST kind of workawayer.
We loved… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Liane)
Liane stayed with us for for three weeks, and she was a lovely person to have around. She liked working with the animals and was very efficient, respectful and capable. Liane was a good helper and I can highly recommend her.
(Excellent)
2 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Carla stayed with us for two weeks and it was a delight to have her with us. She's a lovely person and very intelligent and capable. She did the jobs we asked of her with diligence and efficiency, and the animals really liked her.
Carla is a great person to have helping you, so if she volunteers to stay with you - then say yes as soon as possible… read more
Carla is a great person to have helping you, so if she volunteers to stay with you - then say yes as soon as possible… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Atsushi)
Atsushi was a real pleasure to have stay with us. For the month that he stayed with us, he was so helpful in lots of different areas on the farm. He has the best attitude and is highly motivated. I showed him or explained how to do something new, and he was able to just get on with it and do a great job. The animals loved him. He has a real… read more
(Excellent)
13 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Atsushi) for host
High recommend other workawayers!! I spent a month with lovely and energetic kids and animals at the heartwarming house. Everything was first time but their great kindness and hospitality had always helped me. I touched a wonderful kiwi life and learned a lot from them. Especially, it was really impressive to take care a lot of different and… read more
16 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Manon)
Manon is an amazing person and we loved having her stay with us. In the the three weeks that she stayed with us, she helped in so many different ways. She is very intelligent and capable, she only had to be shown new methods once, and was always keen to learn new stuff. I really enjoyed working with her around the animals (for which she has a real… read more
(Excellent)
3 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Manon) for host
Lovely family, amazing place with mountains and friendly animals, incredible sunsets !
I spent 3 nice weeks with you. Thanks to everyone, to the kids for the moments we had, to Lara and Stephan, to John for his famous chocolate mouss and his funny expressions and to you, Celia, for all you did for me, for sharing with me your passion and for your… read more
I spent 3 nice weeks with you. Thanks to everyone, to the kids for the moments we had, to Lara and Stephan, to John for his famous chocolate mouss and his funny expressions and to you, Celia, for all you did for me, for sharing with me your passion and for your… read more
16 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Marlein)
Marlein is an amazing person and we loved having her stay with us. She is warm, friendly, intelligent, respectful, full of energy and is very practical. Marlein is the kind of person who will give anything and everything a go, and we all admired her motivation and abilities.
She stayed with us for approx three weeks, and helped us with lots of… read more
She stayed with us for approx three weeks, and helped us with lots of… read more
(Excellent)
18 Sep 2019
Left by Workawayer (Marlein) for host
I've had a great time staying with Celia, John, the kids and other travelers. The dogs are awesome too. Never a dull moment at the blue house! I've spent about 3 weeks there, but will definitely be back there before the end of my travels:)
Celia and John are both very accommodating and always in for a chat and a laugh. You'll feel like part of… read more
Celia and John are both very accommodating and always in for a chat and a laugh. You'll feel like part of… read more
26 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Stacey) for host
Cilia and John are the most amazing workaway hosts. Cilia has the most beautiful heart and it shows in every aspect of their home/farm, I especially enjoyed my interaction with all the farm animals who all know about human love, this was very special to me . I felt welcome, comfortable and so blessed throughout my stay. The where incredibly… read more
2 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Stacey)
Stacey is awesome.
I can't state clearly enough how lovely and brilliant she is.
Stacey stayed with us for quite a few weeks and was not only was she a huge help (seriously went above and beyond many times), but she was brilliant company, a ray of sunshine at all times, and is one of the most considerate and warm people that John and I have met.… read more
I can't state clearly enough how lovely and brilliant she is.
Stacey stayed with us for quite a few weeks and was not only was she a huge help (seriously went above and beyond many times), but she was brilliant company, a ray of sunshine at all times, and is one of the most considerate and warm people that John and I have met.… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Sophia)
Oh, Sophia, we wish you'd stay with us for ever! Come back!
Seriously, Sophia is such a lovely person and has been an absolute pleasure to have stay with us. Her attitude to life is incredibly positive and she has such potential in so many areas.
Her work was of a very high standard, and she's incredibly capable and skilled for someone of her… read more
Seriously, Sophia is such a lovely person and has been an absolute pleasure to have stay with us. Her attitude to life is incredibly positive and she has such potential in so many areas.
Her work was of a very high standard, and she's incredibly capable and skilled for someone of her… read more
(Excellent)
18 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Tatjana)
Tatijana is a wonderful person. She has huge insight, her English is impeccable and we really enjoyed having her stay with us. She is honest, hard working, diligent and very considerate. Her horsemanship skills and knowledge are of a very high standard - there is nothing she can't handle. We wish she had longer to stay with us and there were tears… read more
(Excellent)
4 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Elena) for host
It’s so hard to put my stay at the blue house into words, but I will try by describing a typical day there.
Morning:
Wake up as soon as the kids are awake but actually get up after you’ve spend another good 1-2hours in bed. (Nobody tells you when you have to start working)
Make coffee, pancakes and fruit for yourself and the other amazing… read more
Morning:
Wake up as soon as the kids are awake but actually get up after you’ve spend another good 1-2hours in bed. (Nobody tells you when you have to start working)
Make coffee, pancakes and fruit for yourself and the other amazing… read more
29 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Elena)
Elena is a lovely person in every way. Warm, friendly, brave, kind, considerate and attentive.
She stayed with us for three weeks, and we were SO very sad to see her leave. During her time with us she cleaned, prepped, and painted doors and windows, worked in the garden, helped clean and tidy the house, helped with meals, looked after the… read more
She stayed with us for three weeks, and we were SO very sad to see her leave. During her time with us she cleaned, prepped, and painted doors and windows, worked in the garden, helped clean and tidy the house, helped with meals, looked after the… read more
(Excellent)
29 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jennifer & Forrest)
Forrest and Jen were delightful in every way and we loved having them stay with us. They are both warm and friendly, they were great with my kids and helped in all aspects of the daily routine and running of the house.
They both made a wonderful bespoke double bed for our cottage, which is truly unique and original, and then they made my sons… read more
They both made a wonderful bespoke double bed for our cottage, which is truly unique and original, and then they made my sons… read more
(Excellent)
1 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Elise & Sam) for host
During my time in New Zealand, I spent about two weeks in total with the family and I am happy to call this a home away from home now. The work is not always easy, it's a farm and you get the real deal (weeding, gardening, removing bushes, sheep / horse poo picking, painting / sanding the cottage). But the coziness of the family, the amazing food,… read more
28 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Elise & Sam)
Elise stayed with us for nearly 2 weeks in December and was delightful! She was awesome with the kids, helped with heaps of tasks and is such a pleasant, positive and lovely person. We really liked her 'can do' attitude and she was very capable.
Elise helped with lots of gardening, helped me worm and crotch some of the sheep, helped with our… read more
Elise helped with lots of gardening, helped me worm and crotch some of the sheep, helped with our… read more
(Excellent)
23 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Leonard) for host
The three weeks Lisa and I stayed at the Blue House were so awesommeee that we were even homesick on our first night in our campervan. We had such a good time, learned a lot ( how to fix a tire for example :P ), met some very loving people and ate some delicious food (I think I even gained some kilos). Lisa and I enjoyed spending time with the… read more
21 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Leonard)
Leo and Lisa stayed with us for nearly 3 weeks and it was a pleasure to have them. They were both delightful people, who were keen to interact, help out and be part of the household. They were both very capable and nothing was a problem. We loved Leo's sense of humour and Lisa's quick wit. They are great workawayers and we'd highly recommend them… read more
(Excellent)
21 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Helena)
Helena was great and we enjoyed her company immensely. She helped out with all kinds of jobs, and had a lot of common sense. It was a pleasure to have her stay with us and we would highly recommend her as a workawayer.
(Excellent)
21 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Emily)
We loved having Emily stay with us. She was so capable, worked hard and well, was a delight to have around and she had the best sense of humour ever!
The kids both adored her, and she had a natural ability around them.
We wished Emily could have stayed longer, but she had a plane to catch. She's welcome back to our place any time.
We can highly… read more
The kids both adored her, and she had a natural ability around them.
We wished Emily could have stayed longer, but she had a plane to catch. She's welcome back to our place any time.
We can highly… read more
(Excellent)
15 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Ralph) for host
I (Roxane) spent nearly a month with Celia, John, Leon and Freya. It was... FANTASTIC!!! All of them (included the dogs, the sheeps, the horses) are really nice, generous and helpful. A feedback is not enough to explain how I enjoyed my stay there, you really need to go and see by yourself.
During my stay, I had the chance to learn a lot about… read more
During my stay, I had the chance to learn a lot about… read more
7 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Ralph)
Roxane stayed with us for nearly a month, and we absolutely loved having her stay with us. She is a wonderful person, kind, courteous, generous and the kind of person who you want to spend more time with. She has some amazing stories, can cook and bake glorious food, and is incredibly adept at all kinds of jobs and work.
Whilst staying with us… read more
Whilst staying with us… read more
(Excellent)
11 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Elsa & Ivan)
Elsa and Ivan were delightful. They were warm, friendly, so great to be with and we are so happy we met them. They did so much to help us, it was incredible and we will be for ever grateful for the knowledge they shared with us and the work they did in our cottage.
Elsa is inspirational. Her English is excellent and she is super intelligent and… read more
Elsa is inspirational. Her English is excellent and she is super intelligent and… read more
(Excellent)
11 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Elsa & Ivan) for host
Celia and her family are awesome! We spent a week with them building a bathroom and they give us all of their love, we’ve found a home in the other part of the world :heart_eyes:
It couldn’t be better, THANKS SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!
It couldn’t be better, THANKS SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!
31 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Callie) for host
I stayed for a week on the farm. Celia and her family were so wonderful and provided a lovely first workaway experience for me. They welcomed me in right away and treated me as one of the family, inviting me to go to community holiday events with them in Darfield and New Brighton. In terms of work, I cleared lots of thistles, collected eggs, fed… read more
18 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Callie)
Callie was wonderful and we would have loved if she had been able to stay longer, unfortunately flights had been booked and her next chapter was already planned. We loved having Callie stay with us. She is smart, clever, positive, warm and a delight to be around. The kids loved her, especially my daughter who thought Callie was so awesome!
Callie… read more
Callie… read more
(Excellent)
30 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Arthur & Cindy) for host
This family is amazing ! We have spend one week with them and it was the perfect place. We have learn lots of things, and the kids are really lovely ! Thank you Celia, John, Leon and Freya for this moment.
Cindy and Arthur
Cindy and Arthur
28 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Arthur & Cindy)
Arthur and Cindy were lovely and we really enjoyed their company for a week. They were extremely polite, respectful and friendly. They helped with all kids of tasks, including gardening, landscaping, preparing walls for painting, feeding the pet lambs, entertaining the children and general housework.
Arthur and Cindy are excellent workawayers and… read more
Arthur and Cindy are excellent workawayers and… read more
(Excellent)
25 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
Faaaaaaantastic place to stay !
Celia is a lovely mother of 2 amazing children, Leon and Freya, both are incredible children, full of energies and always happy, you'll never get bored. I love them.
John is the a real kiwi, he teach me lots of thing and we had a lot of fun together by doing lot of task and activity.
They can definitely bring you… read more
Celia is a lovely mother of 2 amazing children, Leon and Freya, both are incredible children, full of energies and always happy, you'll never get bored. I love them.
John is the a real kiwi, he teach me lots of thing and we had a lot of fun together by doing lot of task and activity.
They can definitely bring you… read more
29 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Yann is an amazing person. We loved having him stay with us and we wish he could stay for ever! A friend for life.
Yann is strong, intelligent, extremely capable, flexible and wonderful to be around. He has endless energy and there was nothing he couldn't do, or help with... building fences, landscaping, driving all kinds of things like: diggers,… read more
Yann is strong, intelligent, extremely capable, flexible and wonderful to be around. He has endless energy and there was nothing he couldn't do, or help with... building fences, landscaping, driving all kinds of things like: diggers,… read more
(Excellent)
18 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Paulina )
Paulina and Marcel stayed with us for nearly three weeks and every day they were a delight! They were so helpful, nothing was ever a problem and they were both so polite, respectful, friendly and positive.
Marcel is a very capapable and skilled man. He helped us with a huge renovation project and contributed so much we will be for ever grateful.… read more
Marcel is a very capapable and skilled man. He helped us with a huge renovation project and contributed so much we will be for ever grateful.… read more
(Excellent)
26 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Freja) for host
I had my best NZ experience over the days I stayed with this family. From the moment I step into the little blue house I feel that I was a part of their happy family. The kids were so lovely, fun and full of energy, they always make you smile, and they love to play with you. You will never get bored there. I spend most of my free time together… read more
25 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Freja)
We were lucky enough to have Freja stay with us for just over a week. She was delightful in every way. Freja was incredibly helpful, was a really positive person at all times and fitted into our family and routine really well. She is very capable and strong, great with children, her English is amazing and was very respectful towards others. We… read more
(Excellent)
30 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Ronja & Tim)
Ronja and Tim were lovely and will always be welcome to stay with us. They both arrived in NZ direct from Germany and straight away they helped us do all kinds of jobs around the house and farm. They were always respectful, polite, friendly and lovely to have staying with us. They cooked some lovely meals, the kids really enjoyed their company and… read more
(Excellent)
30 Sep 2018
Left by Workawayer (Ronja & Tim) for host
Celia and her whole family is very lovely. They treated us like a part of their own family, become to friends since the first second and helped us wherever they can and we are very happy that we stayed with them. We did some gerat daytrips and also spend most of the free time with the family. For the future we wish them just the best and we will… read more
30 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Fiona)
Fiona stayed with us for a full month and we enjoyed her company every minute of her stay. Fiona was delightful in every aspect. She helped us with heaps of jobs, the children loved her, she was respectful, proactive, neat and tidy plus, and this was the best bit; she was always so positive about everything. She was a breath of fresh air and we… read more
(Excellent)
