Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
1 Sep 2025
Reply rate
86.7 %
Usually responds within 15 days
Feedback
8
ID verified
Email verified
Host offers payment
Badges (4)
Details
Description
Hi!
*Update. December 2nd 2025. At the moment we're getting ready for a very happy event - our wedding! So we are looking for a solo or couple who can help in the garden and with a bit of painting :)
We have horses but in December are not riding due to a minor injury. In January some riding will again be possible!!!
In addition you can experience the picturesque landscapes of Hawke's Bay. The region is renowned for its wineries, local fruits and vegetables, outdoor activities and inviting landscapes. Napier and Hastings are relaxed regions with a welcoming feel. During your time here, be sure to explore the stunning Te Mata Peak, a local treasure, perfectly placed for bikers and hikers alike.
We live just outside Havelock North on a lifestyle property and a large, architectural house. You will have your own room at the top of the house and can enjoy your privacy whenever required. We are friendly and relaxed in our approach to shared living. We enjoy socializing and also provide opportunities for everyone to relax in their own space. There is myself Johno (39), my son Olaf (16), my fiancée Emily, and our cats Zazou & Ghost. We also keep chickens and during September there will likely be lambs on the property.
We love outdoor adventures, playing sports, animals, biking, experimenting with different cuisines, reading, computers, jiu-jitsu and generally having fun! Olaf is here half of the time and with his mother the other half.
There is something to suit all skills and preferences, we are flexible and can generally arrange your preferred tasks.
There's always something to do on the property or in the house, types of tasks include:
- Cooking
- Cleaning the house (windows, deep cleans)
- Cleaning the pool
- Painting
- Gardening and landscaping
There are many hikes around the region. About 1 hour drive away is the Ruahine Mountain Range which is for more intense mountain hiking and can present opportunities for hunting.
Depending on the season we also aim to make time for tennis or squash, running, yoga, meditation, working out in our small home gym, chess, play-station, biking, hunting, kayaking, surfing and horse riding (polo).
You are most welcome to join us in adventures, or use our sports equipment where applicable. We love having enthusiastic visitors and like to reward hard work with adventures so you can enjoy the best of the region during your visit.
Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Farmstay help
General Maintenance
Interests
Pets
Fitness
Outdoor activities
Animals
Beach
Cycling
Adventure sports
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
As described above, we love large and small adventures and are happy to reward hard work with fun outdoor activities!
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage
This host offers accommodation and payment.
Help
- Gardening, house painting, general property maintenance
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
About where we live:
We live 3.5km from the centre of Havelock North. We have 4 acres of well planted property. It's beautiful and very private. We live in an amazing, architectural home with a swimming pool. Your bedroom will be at the top of the tower!
About Your Room:
You have your own bedroom at the top of the tower. Queen bed. Bathroom shared with my 15 year old boy. Your bedroom also has access to a balcony if you are a smoker.
Plenty of parking space. You can use the kitchen, pool, etc.
What else ...
(check out Hawke's Bay hot spots!)
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
Plenty of parking.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Ghosty (6 years)
Strong on napping and snacking.
Zazou (7 years)
Chief mouser and all around superstar. Open to making new friends.
Rosie (6 years)
Future superstar. Johno's new, off-the-racetrack pony project. You will only ride her if you are very experienced. Very intelligent, very dominant, very speedy.
Fox (9 years)
A very easy, gentle gelding with a lot of personality.
Basil (6 years)
The sweetest and biggest of all the ponies. Very safe and friendly. A kid-friendly favourite
Montana (13 years)
Very smooth canter, and used to be a favourite at the polo school where we bought her from
Pebbles (21 years)
Our best polo pony. Very sweet and very speedy.
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback (6)
They are such kind and cheerful people, always ready to share funny stories over one of Emily’s delicious meals!
During our stay, we mostly did some outdoor painting, house cleaning, and… read more
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
They are such kind and cheerful people, always ready to share funny stories over one of Emily’s delicious meals!
During our stay, we mostly did some outdoor painting, house cleaning, and… read more
We had a wonderful time with Dagmar, and highly recommend her to others. Good luck in your travels Dagmar! :)
