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Our place is based in the Baton Valley, 90 minutes from Nelson, and operated by a trust that owns the property at the top of the valley bordering Kahurangi National Park and 12 years ago built a replica of an original hotel which operated on this site in the 1860s gold mining era. The homestead is spacious, comfortable and warm, with a large ‘ballroom’ perfect for groups.
The valley is remote, beautiful, and comprises farmland, bush, some pine plantation and wild, clean rivers. It provides access into the National Park, either up the Baton to Flanagan’s Hut or to the Ellis basin below Tuao Wharepapa (the Mt Arthur range). There is ample opportunity for walking, swimming, biking and plenty of peace and quiet if you just wish to rest.
The Trust’s aims are around sustainability education, building community and conservation and we welcome people to experience the open spaces, rivers and tranquillity of this area. Our kaupapa can be summed up by the Tīwaiwaka philosophy - Ka ora te whenua, ka ora te tangata - When the land is well, the people will be well.
History has been brought back to life with the rebirth of the old building; native bush is being replanted; Tīwaiwaka is all about life cycles; we are reviving old healing skills; the Baton Valley Trust exists for generation after generation; and guests feel regenerated when they leave. The whole house experience feeds body and soul.
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
We are a remote homestead adjacent to the wilderness of Kahurangi National Park, 90 mins from Nelson, 50 mins from Motueka. We host wellness retreats in the summer weekends. I am a herbalist and yoga teacher and you will learn about the New Zealand wilderness, growing food, herbal medicine, yoga.
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
I need assistance with gardens, lawns, house maintenance & cleaning, controlling weed species in our native re-vegetation block, cooking, building etc. Your own vehicle is preferable but I may be able to give you a ride from Nelson. I prefer experienced workers with some outdoor and maintenance skills. Thanks
English: Fluent
Indonesian: Intermediate
Maori: Beginner
We have a beautiful artisan house which was built as a replica of a hotel that was here in the 1860s gold rush. There is no mobile phone reception and we are off grid. You will have your own room and bathroom, except if we are hosting a retreat.
We have direct access to day and overnight walking. And great river swimming. There is a horse, dog and chickens on the property.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
I have good wifi and you have a comfortable private space to work.
This host can provide space for campervans.
This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.
More than two
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week