Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
9 Jan 2025
Reply rate
92.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
104
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Details
Description
We live 2kms from central Motueka township. We are a semi-retired couple with two adult sons living close by with their amazingly talented wives and our seven beautiful grandchildren who visit regularly.
The property consists of muddled cottage gardens, a home vege patch and a large vegetable garden out the back, which includes a 1/2 acre mixture of fruit trees. Besides that we have a large native garden on the property.
Husband loves the great outdoors, is a hunter gatherer who always makes sure the freezer is stocked with wild game and we have at least two years of firewood ahead of us every year.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
You will learn the rich history of place, visit our Marae (cultural place of standing) join us and our (whanau) family for cultural blessings and ceremonies when/if these happen during your stay with us. Visit sites of significant and understand why they are so special to Māori. Sample our traditional foods and how it is prepared cooked and eaten. Learn basic (te reo māori) language.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
The work is manual labour so it requires people who are physically fit and use to lifting heavy objects and working in the outdoors. Lifting, cutting, stacking firewood. Digging, ground work, prunning, planting & general gardening maintenance, animal health & care, housework, cleaning and ongoing home maintenance.
Our expectations are that you work 4 - 5 hours per day in return for food, accommodation and good company.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Maori: Intermediate
Accommodation
Live in home with owners have your own double bedroom with queen-size bed. And full use of home except home office.`We have almost completed extra accomodation.
What else ...
Our unique difference is that we can teach you local Māori history, visit our marae, experience the culture, traditions and food in our (rohe) area.
You would be treated with respect, kindness and honesty but this would need to be reciprocal. We enjoy hosting and are happy to share this with you.
We would prefer non fussy eaters unless you are happy to prepare all your own food. Part of our normal diet consists of meat and dairy products which we all enjoy along with seafood.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Host ref number: 3899184134d6
Feedback (44)
26 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Olivia & Ross)
Olivia and Ross,
Stayed with us for a week and during their time with us Ross used the wood splitter and stacked the firewood at the house and Olivia weeded the gardens to a high standard in the tunnel house and vege patch. On their time off they checked out the Abel Tasman national Park, Saltwater Baths and various other popular tourist locations… read more
Stayed with us for a week and during their time with us Ross used the wood splitter and stacked the firewood at the house and Olivia weeded the gardens to a high standard in the tunnel house and vege patch. On their time off they checked out the Abel Tasman national Park, Saltwater Baths and various other popular tourist locations… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Rie)
Kia ora ano,
Ride was a lovely addition to our whanau. She was hardworking, able to work alone with good instructions. She did a great job in our tunnel house and in the house garden her sushi was to die for thank you for showing me how to make yummy sushi. I am happy to recommend her to any new host in the future. Thank you so much Rie
Ngā mihi… read more
Ride was a lovely addition to our whanau. She was hardworking, able to work alone with good instructions. She did a great job in our tunnel house and in the house garden her sushi was to die for thank you for showing me how to make yummy sushi. I am happy to recommend her to any new host in the future. Thank you so much Rie
Ngā mihi… read more
(Excellent
)
11 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Nakisa) for host
Rima is so knowledgeable about her Maori history and history of the land in Motueka.
she was happy to provide vegetarian ingredients and there was a big garden with vegetables that I could use as well.
It was my pleasure to familiar myself about Maori Culture and specifically tribs from North of South island.
Thank you so much Rima and wish to see… read more
she was happy to provide vegetarian ingredients and there was a big garden with vegetables that I could use as well.
It was my pleasure to familiar myself about Maori Culture and specifically tribs from North of South island.
Thank you so much Rima and wish to see… read more
10 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Nakisa)
Tēnā koe a Nakisa,
Thank you for all your hard work in the garden and cleaning it was very much appreciated. I would be very happy to recommend you to any potential host looking for a hardworking person. I enjoyed sharing and celebrating my cultural heritage. I hope you got a better understanding of the challenges and successes Māori endured… read more
Thank you for all your hard work in the garden and cleaning it was very much appreciated. I would be very happy to recommend you to any potential host looking for a hardworking person. I enjoyed sharing and celebrating my cultural heritage. I hope you got a better understanding of the challenges and successes Māori endured… read more
(Excellent
)
Photos
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)
26 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Olivia & Ross)
Olivia and Ross,
Stayed with us for a week and during their time with us Ross used the wood splitter and stacked the firewood at the house and Olivia weeded the gardens to a high standard in the tunnel house and vege patch. On their time off they checked out the Abel Tasman national Park, Saltwater Baths and various other popular tourist locations… read more
Stayed with us for a week and during their time with us Ross used the wood splitter and stacked the firewood at the house and Olivia weeded the gardens to a high standard in the tunnel house and vege patch. On their time off they checked out the Abel Tasman national Park, Saltwater Baths and various other popular tourist locations… read more
(Excellent)
24 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Rie)
Kia ora ano,
Ride was a lovely addition to our whanau. She was hardworking, able to work alone with good instructions. She did a great job in our tunnel house and in the house garden her sushi was to die for thank you for showing me how to make yummy sushi. I am happy to recommend her to any new host in the future. Thank you so much Rie
Ngā mihi… read more
Ride was a lovely addition to our whanau. She was hardworking, able to work alone with good instructions. She did a great job in our tunnel house and in the house garden her sushi was to die for thank you for showing me how to make yummy sushi. I am happy to recommend her to any new host in the future. Thank you so much Rie
Ngā mihi… read more
(Excellent)
11 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Nakisa) for host
Rima is so knowledgeable about her Maori history and history of the land in Motueka.
she was happy to provide vegetarian ingredients and there was a big garden with vegetables that I could use as well.
It was my pleasure to familiar myself about Maori Culture and specifically tribs from North of South island.
Thank you so much Rima and wish to see… read more
she was happy to provide vegetarian ingredients and there was a big garden with vegetables that I could use as well.
It was my pleasure to familiar myself about Maori Culture and specifically tribs from North of South island.
Thank you so much Rima and wish to see… read more
10 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Nakisa)
Tēnā koe a Nakisa,
Thank you for all your hard work in the garden and cleaning it was very much appreciated. I would be very happy to recommend you to any potential host looking for a hardworking person. I enjoyed sharing and celebrating my cultural heritage. I hope you got a better understanding of the challenges and successes Māori endured… read more
Thank you for all your hard work in the garden and cleaning it was very much appreciated. I would be very happy to recommend you to any potential host looking for a hardworking person. I enjoyed sharing and celebrating my cultural heritage. I hope you got a better understanding of the challenges and successes Māori endured… read more
(Excellent)
28 Jul 2024
Left by Workawayer (Michal) for host
We were welcomed to their house in early July, with firewood crackling in the stove. We helped with gardening, weeding, preparing veggie pots, and general maintenance around the house. We were also invited to the Marae (Maori meeting grounds) to participate in community projects and discussions. We were definitely happy to ease Rima and Denis's… read more
8 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Simon)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(No show)
23 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Emanuel ) for host
It was such a pleasure to stay here! I spent 2 weeks with Rima and Dennis and it was amazing. They involved us in some very deep cultural experience and I really loved to be there with them. The place is a quiet and pacific one and close to Motueka, Kaiteriteri and the Abel Tasman. They are very welcoming and I felt like I'm part of family.… read more
13 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Alexandre)
Kia ora Alex, It was a real pleasure hosting Tabea, Emeley and you for the week and thank you so much for all the work you all did for us. We are truly grateful. Next time you must all come and stay as our whanau(family). As you will always be welcomed here with us. My gardens look so bloody amazing. I so enjoyed sharing my cultural history. Thank… read more
(Excellent)
16 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Alexandre) for host
Rima and Dennis are awesome people with a truly special little space. Rima is welcoming and full of local Moari knowledge. She is actively involved with developing her community in such a beautiful way, and takes the time to explain and share her culture. Dennis is a salt of the earth kind of guy, kind, crafty and has good stories to tell and… read more
13 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Emely & Tabea)
We had the pleasure of hosting Emely, Tabea and Alex,
They were a trio great communicators, great at following instructions and able to work unsupervised once they understood what the job’s details were. I had them mostly tiding up and weeding the gardens. There was a bit of firewood to stack but generally they were task to weed. I loved that… read more
They were a trio great communicators, great at following instructions and able to work unsupervised once they understood what the job’s details were. I had them mostly tiding up and weeding the gardens. There was a bit of firewood to stack but generally they were task to weed. I loved that… read more
(Excellent)
17 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jonas) for host
I've spend more than a week at this sunny, beautiful kiwi Maori place.
Between fruit orchards and next to town , ca 10-15 min with the bike to the beach, it's a good place to stay and explore to local area. There are some bike tracks, but if you have your own vehicle it's better.
Rima and Dennis are an sweet older couple with some special kind of… read more
Between fruit orchards and next to town , ca 10-15 min with the bike to the beach, it's a good place to stay and explore to local area. There are some bike tracks, but if you have your own vehicle it's better.
Rima and Dennis are an sweet older couple with some special kind of… read more
14 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Craig & Aimee)
Craig & Aimee are what makes this exchange all worth while. All we can say is thank you, thank you, thank you without you two arriving when you did we would have been working every weekend for the next millennium (ha,ha) to catch-up. Craig and Aimee stacked firewood, weeded, pruned both our vege patch including house gardens (which was almost… read more
(Excellent)
12 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Craig & Aimee) for host
We so enjoyed our stay with Rima and Dennis. It was exactly what we were hoping for after reading the other reviews. Rima was diligent to give us a true Maori experience and education. We were so lucky to be staying with them during Waitangi Day. Rima arranged for us to go to her Marae and to a blessing which was a true cultural experience.
The… read more
The… read more
29 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Jannik) for host
Rima and Dennis,
First I really want to thank you for the review you gave me.
I had, even if it was a bit shorter than planned, a really good time in your place. You are lovely people, kind and good to talk to. I enjoyed the work I had to do. Thanks to Rima I learned many new things about the Maori culture. And she even took me to an official… read more
First I really want to thank you for the review you gave me.
I had, even if it was a bit shorter than planned, a really good time in your place. You are lovely people, kind and good to talk to. I enjoyed the work I had to do. Thanks to Rima I learned many new things about the Maori culture. And she even took me to an official… read more
21 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Jannik)
Jannik, is a nice young man honest and skilled in his work and fabulous in the garden unfortunately he wasn't able to stay as long as he initially wanted too due to a paid position happening sooner than anticipated. But no issue as we would still give him a good reference based on his attitude to work whilst here. Thank you Jannik look forward to… read more
(Excellent)
21 Mar 2018
Left by Workawayer (Sierra) for host
Wow! What an incredibly kind review, thank you so much for writing this. It means a lot!!!!
OK, well 12 days in Motueka zoomed by! Staying with Rima and Dennis was truly memorable, and I felt so at home the whole time. In terms of the work, my tasks consisted mainly of yardwork, such as weeding, watering, and mowing the grass. I enjoyed the work… read more
OK, well 12 days in Motueka zoomed by! Staying with Rima and Dennis was truly memorable, and I felt so at home the whole time. In terms of the work, my tasks consisted mainly of yardwork, such as weeding, watering, and mowing the grass. I enjoyed the work… read more
19 Mar 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Sierra)
AMAZING, AWESOMENESS and TRULY memorable these are but a few words that spring to mind to describe Sierra she has a truly infectious laugh that made you laugh every-time you heard it. She was honest, trustworthy and tidy in her work practices. We were able to give her instructions and know when we returned all the tasks were completed to a high… read more
(Excellent)
21 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Jeremy)
Jeremy has great work discipline he does a job and does it well. Thank you so much for all your help it was greatly appreciated. We are very happy to recommend Jeremy to all future host especially if you are looking for a hardworking person to stack wood or do gardening or any other outdoor jobs then Jeremy can help you out. Thank you Jeremy you… read more
(Excellent)
21 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Paddy_F)
Thank you so much Patrick for all your hard work in stacking the wood and all the manual work you did around the place it was very much appreciated and a real pleasure hosting you. Highly recommend Paddy to future host and wish him well for the future.
Rima & Dennis
Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
21 Feb 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Tamar)
Tamar it was a pleasure hosting you for the week all the cleaning and gardening work you did was very much appreciated. Your cooking was amazing and for me it is always a pleasure to share my culture with international travelers who are interested. Thank you again and you are always welcome back should you return to our region in the future.
Rima… read more
Rima… read more
(Excellent)
20 Feb 2018
Left by Workawayer (Tamar) for host
I had a lovely week at Rima and Dennis’s place. They are good people and their grandchildren are sweet. The house is comfortable with a lovely orchard and garden, and they provided me with a bicycle to explore the surroundings. Rima is very involved in the local and national Māori community and has heaps of knowledge and views to share. She kindly… read more
8 Apr 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (JINandMIKE)
Michal & Jindra were brilliant to host nothing was a problem and it was a real pleasure hosting them. The work was diverse so they were able to adapt easily. Michal was brillant at mowing the lawns clipping the hedges everything he did was to a very high standard likewise with Jindra she was equally brilliant both inside and out in the garden and… read more
(Excellent)
8 Apr 2017
Left by Workawayer (JINandMIKE) for host
We had such a good time with Rima and Dennis.We liked the food they were cooking.Hope,they liked our one cooked dish as well:)
We helped them with their pretty garden or with general household chores.Rima took us to a local museum where she gave us a lot of imformation about Maories in Golden Bay region and South Island in common.She even made… read more
We helped them with their pretty garden or with general household chores.Rima took us to a local museum where she gave us a lot of imformation about Maories in Golden Bay region and South Island in common.She even made… read more
28 Feb 2017
Left by Workawayer (Iona) for host
I had a great stay with Rima and Denis. Things were really well organised, with a nice big board of jobs that need doing, and they were very patient when my weeding wasn't always up to scratch. The orchard is so beautiful and I had such a comfy bed!! Even in the short time I was there I learnt a lot about Maori history and ongoing issues today.… read more
6 Feb 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Alex)
Alex thank you so much for all the work you did for us it was great hosting you and I glad you enjoyed your time with us.
Dennis & Rima
Dennis & Rima
(Excellent)
28 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Alex) for host
Everything about my stay with Rima and Dennis was awesome. The accommodation couldn't have been better, the food was great, and the work was pleasant. I enjoyed my time spent in their orchard and vege gardens very much. Rima also shared her culture with me and I was lucky enough to participate in a powhiri at her marae. I would recommend Rima and… read more
10 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
Rima and Dennis are amazing hosts and I couldn't have asked for a more laid back environment! The work is pleasant and the company is even better. Rima and Dennis have a wonderful family, and I learned TONS about their cultural history and way of life. I enjoyed it so much, and they were very accommodating while I got over a bad cold! Thanks for… read more
24 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Maddy thank you so much for all your hard work it was a real pleasure hosting you. We would highly recommend Maddy to any future host she is engaging self motivated and hardworking with a can give anything ago attitude. Hope you enjoyed your summertime Xmas.
Rima & Dennis
Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
21 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Maria de los Angeles)
Maria was a really lovely friendly and a I can do attitude. Which helped heaps as at times she needed to self manage her work. I really enjoyed sharing my culture with her as one of those mornings was a very early start. Thank you for all your help and we would love to host you when ever you come back to Motueka.
Rima & Dennis
Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
12 Dec 2016
Left by Workawayer (Maria de los Angeles) for host
Rima and Dennis were absolutely friendly and made me feel at home stright away. I've learned, not only about gardening, but also about Maori culture. Rima kindly included me in all family and cultural activities in the week I spent there. It has been a one of a kind experience. Also our conversations were truly amazing. They are a generous couple… read more
25 Nov 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Simon)
Thank you Simon you certainly set the bar high for all future workaways to achieve. Simon was physically fit and hardworking, enjoyed all the work he was tasked to do from mowing lawns to stacking firewood, driving the tractor to digging the gardens. He was an early riser in the mornings which suited our lifestyle, was a self starter, fast… read more
(Excellent)
17 Nov 2016
Left by Workawayer (Simon) for host
Hi, I Just wanted to leave you a note, to say thanks again for hosting me, and letting me stay on, while I arranged my next stay.
I really appreciate the time you took to show me around, the tasty food and wonderful hospitality. I have very happy memories of my time in Motueka.
I wish you and the whānau well...enjoy the summer!
Simon x
I really appreciate the time you took to show me around, the tasty food and wonderful hospitality. I have very happy memories of my time in Motueka.
I wish you and the whānau well...enjoy the summer!
Simon x
20 Apr 2016
Left by Workawayer (Judit & Ashley) for host
Thank you Rima, Dennis and the rest of the family for having us and making us so welcome in your whanau. We wish we could have stayed but it was time to move on. Anyone thinking of staying with them please do!you will learn lots about Maori culture and about Rima's family and the amazing community they have in Motueka.
We will keep in… read more
We will keep in… read more
18 Apr 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Judit & Ashley)
Judit & Ash are truly a wonderful couple and I am so looking forward to staying in touch with them along there journey. We also want to know when they have their first baby as they will make fantastic parents one day, my grandchildren truly adored both of them especially Taiapo. Judit cleaned and Ash work outside stacking wood and mowing lawns… read more
(Excellent)
18 Apr 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Floch)
We hosted Sebastian for about 10 days and he is a really nice man. He is a landscape designer and it was great having the use of his skills on the farm. Nothing was an effort and always happy to help out where needed. So we are happy to recommend him to all future host and would be happy to host him any time into the future. Oh yes and my… read more
(Excellent)
6 Apr 2016
Left by Workawayer (Melissa) for host
Dennis and Rima-
Apologies for a delayed response-
Thank you for such a wonderful week! I am still smiling thinking of my week with you and feel so lucky that I got to spend a week with you and the grandkids. I miss them (and you!) already. Thank you for immediately helping me feel welcomed, for teaching me some tips around the garden (and with… read more
Apologies for a delayed response-
Thank you for such a wonderful week! I am still smiling thinking of my week with you and feel so lucky that I got to spend a week with you and the grandkids. I miss them (and you!) already. Thank you for immediately helping me feel welcomed, for teaching me some tips around the garden (and with… read more
5 Apr 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Melissa)
Wow Melissa where to start she was hardworking intelligent and really fit. In the short time she stayed with us. Like our two previous workaway our grandchildren thought the world of her as she took the time to interact with them in her spare time. She also clocked up some incredible miles on our old pushbike during her time off which was… read more
(Excellent)
5 Apr 2016
Left by Workawayer (Johanna) for host
Hi Rima, Dennis and family. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write this!
I can't put into words how much I appreciated and learned from the experience of working for you guys. After a bad experience working elsewhere you were the perfect hosts and couldn't have been more accommodating, welcoming or generous. The work was fair and I really… read more
I can't put into words how much I appreciated and learned from the experience of working for you guys. After a bad experience working elsewhere you were the perfect hosts and couldn't have been more accommodating, welcoming or generous. The work was fair and I really… read more
18 Mar 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Johanna)
After hosting Caroline we were so lucky to host another incredible person in Jo who also blended well with our whanau (family) Jo got stuck in and helped where needed mostly in and around the house. When her day was complete she would take the time to play with my grandchildren which was really great thank you so much. I would be happy to… read more
(Excellent)
31 Mar 2016
Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host
Thank you Rima,
sorry for my late reply, I just would like to say a big BIG thank you to you. It was a pleasure to be there.
I really appreciate the fact that you could learn much more in evening with Rima than a week in a Library.
Her grandchildren are great and so kind, perfect place if you like children !
I just recommend anybody who is… read more
sorry for my late reply, I just would like to say a big BIG thank you to you. It was a pleasure to be there.
I really appreciate the fact that you could learn much more in evening with Rima than a week in a Library.
Her grandchildren are great and so kind, perfect place if you like children !
I just recommend anybody who is… read more
31 Mar 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Thomas)
Thomas was a great person hardworking and easy to host. He got on really well with my grandchildren who are the souls to our hearts. So thank you Thomas for all your help and we wish you well for your future. SAFE TRAVELS AND GOOD LUCK
Dennis & Rima
Dennis & Rima
(Excellent)
31 Mar 2016
Left by Workawayer (Caroline) for host
I had a wonderful time with Rima and Dennis and their lovely grandchildren. I really liked the fact that this was more than just a simple “workaway” - a genuine human and cultural exchange. Rima was always happy to tell me about her family and iwi and gave me a real insight into the Maori culture during her free time. I certainly felt at home… read more
18 Mar 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Caroline)
Kia ora Caroline,
Thank you so much for all your help in the garden and in the house you made an excellent job. My grandchildren and our whanau (family) really enjoyed your company and it was a great being able to share my culture with you. We look forward to hosting you again when you next return to Aotearoa. We highly recommend Caroline to… read more
Thank you so much for all your help in the garden and in the house you made an excellent job. My grandchildren and our whanau (family) really enjoyed your company and it was a great being able to share my culture with you. We look forward to hosting you again when you next return to Aotearoa. We highly recommend Caroline to… read more
(Excellent)
18 Feb 2016
Left by Workawayer (Melody) for host
I spent one week with Rima and Dennis, they have a nice family! I learn a lot about Maori culture, and they had a lot of patient with my English! The localization is very good for visit amazing places like Abel Tasman. They were very helpful with me, and I don't have enough words for say thank you!
100% recomendable sin duda!
100% recomendable sin duda!
17 Feb 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Melody)
Melody was very easy going and we enjoyed hosting her. For us she did an amazing job cleaning in the house her cooking for us. Thank you so much next time you travel to NZ be sure to come stay with us. I hope you enjoyed your cultural experience with us.
Rima & Dennis
Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
21 Jan 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Pedro)
Pedro thank you for all the work you did during your time with us. I am very sorry I wasn't able to share much of my culture with you.
But it was a real pleasure hosting you and you showed your gentleman character by allowing two girls (we were also hosting) sleep in your room while you slept in the caravan for the time they were staying thank… read more
But it was a real pleasure hosting you and you showed your gentleman character by allowing two girls (we were also hosting) sleep in your room while you slept in the caravan for the time they were staying thank… read more
(Excellent)
9 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Cécile) for host
This is a great place to volunteer!!! The location is good, the work easy and I had a lot of free time to make the most of my trip in the Tasman region!! I had a very good time staying with Miriana, Lea and Mariekura and I really enjoyed being able to spend good moments with Rima, Deniss and the whanau in such a busy period for them!! Thanks to… read more
8 Dec 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Cécile)
Cecile was hosted by niece her duties were cleaning, gardening and cooking. She has a lovely personality and is easy to host thank you so much for catching up with me whilst you were here. Both Lea & Miriana thoroughly enjoyed your stay with them.
Miriana, Lea, Rima & Mareikura
Miriana, Lea, Rima & Mareikura
(Excellent)
3 Dec 2015
Left by Workawayer (Valentin) for host
Rima and Dennis are great hosts and I would love to stay with them again. There is always something going on, so many wonderful people to meet, so much Maori culture to experience and so many other possibilities that made the two weeks I lived with them pass by way to fast.
Thank you so much for hosting me in such a busy time and showing me all… read more
Thank you so much for hosting me in such a busy time and showing me all… read more
28 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Valentin)
Valentin was an awesome helper he did alot of manual labor whilst he was here from lawn mowing, hedge trimming, weed-eating, mulch spreading to cooking. It was pleasure hosting you Valentin and we wish you all the best with your medical practice into the future good luck. We can highly recommend Valentin to all future hosts. You will always be… read more
(Excellent)
28 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Marie-Pauline & Garcia )
Marie thank you so much for the gardening and all of the cleaning you did for me inside the house it was so much appreciated. It was a real pleasure and we appreciated how you bonded with our grandchildren. For any future host if you are looking for a hardworking young lady Marie-Pauline is for you good luck and enjoy your remaining journey… read more
(Excellent)
17 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Marie-Pauline & Garcia ) for host
My stay at Rima's place just ended and I'm glad to work for them. Rima, Dennis, Taiapo and all the family are awesome people. Beautiful area especially the Abel Tasman National Park which is stunning and they nicely took me there for a day trek. I had been so lucky to participate to a Maori commemoration. I learnt a lot about Maori culture and… read more
28 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Franco)
Kia ora Korua Franco & Camila,
This couple are really lovely they are team players and hardworking and are happy to help out where needed. They fitted into our lifestyle easily and were a pleasure to host. Highly recommend them to any future host who are looking for hardworking clear thinking young couple thank you for your help and hope you … read more
This couple are really lovely they are team players and hardworking and are happy to help out where needed. They fitted into our lifestyle easily and were a pleasure to host. Highly recommend them to any future host who are looking for hardworking clear thinking young couple thank you for your help and hope you … read more
(Excellent)
25 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Franco) for host
We had the best time with Rima and her beautiful family, the place is beautiful, and they are really nice! We learn a lot about Maori culture, we sang maori music even we had our powhiri. Was an amazing experience for us. Thank you so much and i hope we can visit you some other time and you are more than welcome in Argentina!
1 May 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (MAEL)
Nga mihi nui kia koe Mael,
Your cooking skills were fantastic and impressive , your genuine interest in my culture and being able to share this with you was also equally rewarding. Mael did a number of various jobs while he was here from mowing the lawns, cleaning the tunnel-house to cleaning the fridge and of course traditional food of yummy… read more
Your cooking skills were fantastic and impressive , your genuine interest in my culture and being able to share this with you was also equally rewarding. Mael did a number of various jobs while he was here from mowing the lawns, cleaning the tunnel-house to cleaning the fridge and of course traditional food of yummy… read more
(Excellent)
1 May 2015
Left by Workawayer (MAEL) for host
Kia Ora,
What a great week with the tribe ! It was a real key time for me during my year in New Zealand. Rima and Dennis live with a part of their Maori family in Motueka. There is an orchard in the back with apple trees (delicious Braeburn apples), ducks, hens...
You can organise and discuss your working hours with Dennis and Rima. Working a full… read more
What a great week with the tribe ! It was a real key time for me during my year in New Zealand. Rima and Dennis live with a part of their Maori family in Motueka. There is an orchard in the back with apple trees (delicious Braeburn apples), ducks, hens...
You can organise and discuss your working hours with Dennis and Rima. Working a full… read more
10 Apr 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Jaime & Lorea)
Ainhoa & Jaime really lovely couple free spirits and a real pleasure to host nothing was a problem they just got stuck in with a number of jobs from shifting and breaking down a shade shed and moving everything to mowing lawns, to picking and watering the tomatoes. They are hardworking and do anything couple. At the end of there visit the left to… read more
(Excellent)
11 Mar 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
James you're simply the best in so many ways thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts. James is a perfectionist he is highly skilled, self motivated, excellent teacher and a team player in his profession as a builder. While he stayed with us he did a number of building jobs and taught our son and daughter in-law some great skills thank… read more
(Excellent)
6 Mar 2015
Left by Workawayer (James) for host
Dennis and Rima did that their best making me feel at home while staying with them. They were open about communicating. I knew exactly what needed to be done, when it needed to be done with plenty of time for myself to experience. They also they fed me well. My experience living and learning while work trading here is one I would recommend to… read more
2 Mar 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Ankit)
Ankit was a great guy he fitted into our lifestyle immediately. Nothing was a problem and he was always smiling and happy to help out where he could. Even after a hard day working outside he was happy to prepare meals that were very yummy and delicious. My grandchildren and our extended whanau really enjoyed his company. Thank you Ankit if you… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jan 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Miroslaw)
(Neutral)
21 Dec 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Delphine & Ludovic)
Delphine and Ludo,
Arrived two days early than planned they were suppose to spend Xmas and new years with us but due to there next hosts unexpected change in travel plans they were asked by them to come earlier to house-sit for them while they were away not wanting them to miss this opportunity they only got to spend 5 days with us.
They were… read more
Arrived two days early than planned they were suppose to spend Xmas and new years with us but due to there next hosts unexpected change in travel plans they were asked by them to come earlier to house-sit for them while they were away not wanting them to miss this opportunity they only got to spend 5 days with us.
They were… read more
(Excellent)
17 Nov 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Caroline )
Awesome, awesome and awesome and that about sums these two up. Every positive comments from prior hosts is absolutely true, hardworking, diligent, intelligent,honest, whanau (family) orientated, people friendly, respectful and appreciative are all the attributes of these young ladies. They have done there parents proud. They worked so hard for us… read more
(Excellent)
16 Nov 2014
Left by Workawayer (Caroline ) for host
If you want to experience a strong family, Maori culture and just have a great time, this is the right place for you! We cannot thank Rima and Dennis enough for not just letting us stay with them, but also showing us around, explaining everything we wanted to know about Maoris and the wonderful food such as mandarins fresh from the tree. We had a… read more
4 Nov 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Simon )
Simon is a great Guy he only stayed for a short time he was relaxed, easy going and nothing was a problem for him he was happy to give anything ago.
During his stay he mowed lawns, watered the tunnel house and helped weed the gardens. We would be happy to recommend him to any future hosts and would welcome back anytime. Safe travels Simon.
During his stay he mowed lawns, watered the tunnel house and helped weed the gardens. We would be happy to recommend him to any future hosts and would welcome back anytime. Safe travels Simon.
(Excellent)
2 Nov 2014
Left by Workawayer (Simon ) for host
Although I Only stayed for a short time it was a really authentic and nice experience. I liked it very much because rima and Dennis and every one else of their family welcomed me and included me in their life. I therefore recommend them to every one cause they know how to deal with workawayers.
21 Oct 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Zach)
Zac was a really nice friendly guy. He had no problems rising early in the morning which was a huge plus for Dennis and was always happy to talk and listen to stories about our unique kiwi and Maori cultural lifestyle. He preferred to work full days rather than part days which suited us, that way he got to take time off to go exploring our area.… read more
(Excellent)
11 Jul 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Caroline & Charles)
Caz and Charle were an awesome couple and we highly recommend them to any future hosts. Would we host them again most defiantly as part of our growing extended whanau. Safe travels home Caz and Charle. xxx
(Excellent)
27 Jun 2014
Left by Workawayer (Caroline & Charles) for host
We had such a lovely time staying here and were made to feel like part of the family. We learnt a lot from Rima about Maori culture but more so were reminded about the importance of family and living well. Thanks so much for making our time in Motueka so special.
25 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (hspooner) for host
Rima and Dennis are fabulous people. Their humor and warm heartedness makes for quite an enjoyable time at their home. We enjoyed having the opportunity to go to the marae and haka practice with Rima and we enjoyed making a joke out of everything with Dennis. Unfortunately, both parties experienced loss of loved ones while we were there, but it… read more
23 May 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (hspooner)
Heather and Christy were really cool as nothing was ever a problem and we all loved there company and listening to all their stories about there travels before coming to us. They were always happy and we had some really good talks together oh well I think I did most of the talking ha ha.. Christy's needle work was fabulous and Heather's nacho's… read more
(Excellent)
2 May 2014
Left by Workawayer (Shannon) for host
Sorry it's taken so long to give you feedback! Thank you so much Rima, the experience you provided me was among the best I've had during my stay in NZ.
Rima made me feel like a part of the family, and did everything she could to make me feel at home.This was my first Workaway experience, and I couldn't have asked for better. Only problem is any… read more
Rima made me feel like a part of the family, and did everything she could to make me feel at home.This was my first Workaway experience, and I couldn't have asked for better. Only problem is any… read more
28 Apr 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Shannon)
So what can I say about Shannon he is a really neat guy. Shannon you will find your place in this crazy mixed up world of ours and you will make a difference.
Shannon will give anything ago even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone he will give it a try. He has a great personality and of course laughs at my joke which is a good thing.… read more
Shannon will give anything ago even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone he will give it a try. He has a great personality and of course laughs at my joke which is a good thing.… read more
(Excellent)
28 Apr 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (inabridges)
What can we say except Mog you are awesome and we hope both you and Ben return to Aotearoa and make it your home.
Rima & Dennis xxx
Rima & Dennis xxx
(Excellent)
28 Apr 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Kinga & Alberto)
Kinga & Alberto,
Were a really lovely couple we had a rough start in the beginning as I completely forgot to pick them up off the bus the day they arrived and because of this they had to book into the backpacker last minute for the night. Thank goodness Kinga followed up in the morning by arriving at our house. With me convincing them to stay… read more
Were a really lovely couple we had a rough start in the beginning as I completely forgot to pick them up off the bus the day they arrived and because of this they had to book into the backpacker last minute for the night. Thank goodness Kinga followed up in the morning by arriving at our house. With me convincing them to stay… read more
(Excellent)
10 Apr 2014
Left by Workawayer (EdoMV89) for host
I had my first workaway experience with Rima and Roger and I'm glad I did! They are a busy couple but kind and supportive and they let you be a part of the family. We were also introduced to Rima's marae on Waitangi day and witnessed the dancing competion later that day. It was a good experience altogether and I'm grateful for the time I've spent… read more
16 Feb 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (EdoMV89)
Edo was a really nice guy and Pepe our little foxy followed him everywhere during his time with us and he also got on with our great children and others in our home.
During his time here he stacked firewood as required , drove the tractor ok and mowed the grass not so well which were jobs suited to someone who was physically strong and… read more
During his time here he stacked firewood as required , drove the tractor ok and mowed the grass not so well which were jobs suited to someone who was physically strong and… read more
(Excellent)
8 Mar 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Miquel)
Mique and juli are a truely lovely couple and I especially enjoyed going out with them to the Marahau Cafe talent night it was alot of fun. These two worked really hard for us gardening, mowing lawns, stacking wood and working on Dennis's pride and joy woodsplitter machine which he doesn't normally trust just anyone to use so 10+ points to you… read more
(Excellent)
6 Mar 2014
Left by Workawayer (Miquel) for host
Our first workaway experience in New Zealand was with Rima and her family and it was amazing. They are super kindly with us. Motueka is a very nice place to explore. We love Dennis humor, Pipi's company, friendly kids and Rima's stories. It was a pleasure to stay with you. Thank you very much again and see you soon. Mique and Juli
8 Mar 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Tara & Kevin)
Tara and Kevin were a great couple sorry guys for taking so long in giving feed back you know been extra busy. Anyways they tended to our gardens Tara cleaned and delabelled a million preserving jars for me and Kevin mowed all of the lawns so thank you so much it was a pleasure to host you both and I highly recommend them to any future hosts.… read more
(Excellent)
11 Feb 2014
Left by Workawayer (Tara & Kevin) for host
We are very grateful for Rima and her family who welcomed us into their home and even Marae. We ate great dinners and had the opportunity to learn about Maori culture. Rima's extended family is also very welcoming and we especially enjoyed the company of Rima's grandson Tane. He is a very sweet and smart boy. He chatted with me while I worked and… read more
11 Feb 2014
Left by Workawayer (Chiara) for host
Helping Miriana in her moving from Nelson to Motueka was a pleasure, we have been welcomed in her family and in the community, we had the chance to participate at the touching welcome ceremony in their Marae.
Living with them has meant immerse ourselves into the Maori culture and understand deeply their values of community.
We are grateful… read more
Living with them has meant immerse ourselves into the Maori culture and understand deeply their values of community.
We are grateful… read more
31 Jan 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Chiara)
From the bottom of our hearts we are very grateful and happy to have met you both. So where do we start Chiara & Marco went above and beyond to help my niece pack, clean, move out of her house and everything in between once her house was sold and relocate her while they were here staying with her and her children thank you so much. The pizza, … read more
(Excellent)
7 Jan 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Ulrike)
Ulrike was fabulous we took her on holiday with our extended family baching in Marahau for 10days and she fitted nicely with everyone even got all of Dennis's jokes when the rest of the family didn't. She was always helping out where necessary without been asked so we would highly recommend her as a helper to any new host. She will always be… read more
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Arthur)
My apologies Arthur for taking so long in giving feed back. But thank you for all the work you did it was greatly appreciated. So hosting Arthur was a great pleasure and we highly recommend him to all potential future hosts. Good luck and safe travels.
Rima & Dennis
Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2013
Left by Workawayer (umcormil) for host
This was my first workaway experience and it was fantastic. Rima and Dennis are great hosts. I got along well with the family and had the opportunity to hang out with their lovely grandchildren, 3 dogs and a cat (along with some chooks). It was nice to talk to Rima about her Maori history and to tell her about my Métis heritage. I also had the… read more
2 Nov 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (umcormil)
Leanne is a grounded, down to earth young woman who finds nothing a challenge and was happy to give anything ago she was a great little worker. We connected immediately at the get go. My grandchildren, sooty the cat and our three foxies are excellent indicators on the characteristics of visitors to our home and Leanne won them all over day one. I… read more
(Excellent)
10 Apr 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Doug)
Doug, Doug we like Doug he is an amazing guy and captured the hearts of my grandchildren right from the get go. Even Boo, boo (the dog)liked him especially when Doug brought chocolate to share with him and of course Boo managed to scoff 3/4 of the block before Doug realized ha ha! Another of his skill is his cooking ability the sloppy joe's were… read more
(Excellent)
10 Apr 2013
Left by Workawayer (Doug) for host
Rima and Dennis are great hosts! I spent about 10 days with them and had a great time. Rima and I had great conversations about the Maori culture and Dennis and I share stories about the outdoors. They welcomed me into their home and made me part of the family. I even made two new "buddies" while I was there in there sweet grandkids. Dennis… read more
31 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Christopher) for host
Rima and Dennis are EXCELLENT hosts. They welcome you to the family right away and make sure that you experience all there is to do in Motueka. I really wish I could have stayed longer, and if I do return this will be right at the top of my places to stop. A note to any Americans who stay with these lovely people: be adventurous when you cook! Do… read more
30 Mar 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Christopher)
Christopher is a really lovely Guy and a pleasure to host. He was only able to stay for five days as he was traveling to a tight schedule, but in that short-time I hope he gained the Maori cultural knowledge he needed. And thanks for the great meal on the last night.
Rima & Dennis.
Rima & Dennis.
(Excellent)
29 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Sigrid & Geert) for host
This was our first workaway experience and what a pleasure it has been! We felt immediately at home in this cosy and warm family, where a lot of humour is always right around the corner. You get exactely what Rima wrote on her profile and so much more! We felt very priviledged to get such a personal introduction to the Maori culture. A truly… read more
14 Mar 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Sigrid & Geert)
Kia ora Sigrid & Geert,
Thank you so much for all the work you did in our gardens it was such a pleasure to host you both. Our hedges have never looked so good. The meal you cooked for us on the last night was soooo gooood Dennis is still talking about how good it was. Anytime you decide to comeback to NZ you will be welcomed in our home but as… read more
Thank you so much for all the work you did in our gardens it was such a pleasure to host you both. Our hedges have never looked so good. The meal you cooked for us on the last night was soooo gooood Dennis is still talking about how good it was. Anytime you decide to comeback to NZ you will be welcomed in our home but as… read more
(Excellent)
20 Mar 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Leah & Steve)
Leah & Steve were an absolutely lovely couple and it was a pleasure hosting them. While they were here with us they did a number of physically manual jobs from cleaning gutters to removing, planting & pruning our gardens with little effort and a ton of heart. Dennis really appreciated all the home baking and puddings Leah made and is still… read more
(Excellent)
19 Mar 2013
Left by Workawayer (Leah & Steve) for host
It was a pleasure staying and working at Dennis and Rima's lovely home. We enjoyed our time cooking, eating, playing with the animals (we lucked out such that our visit coincided with 5-day-old ducklings!) and exploring Motueka and nearby Abel Tasman. As you might have guessed, we received a first-hand look into Maori culture and affairs; we were… read more
12 Dec 2012
Left by Workawayer (Simon & Léa) for host
If you stay to Rima and Denis place, you will enjoy their understanding, we are not good english speakers but it was not a problem for them. They are really a very nice couple, we were like at home. You will also enjoy their humor (don't be affraid by Dennis' jokes). They got the best free range eggs in town with a lot of funny chickens. It was… read more
5 Dec 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Simon & Léa)
Simon & Lea are a lovely intelligent, hard working and conscientious couple. If you speak french then you are in with a grin as there English is quite limited but as Simon has said they are here to learn. They stayed and worked for us for a week during there time here they worked clearing up our orchard mowing, weeding and spreading mulch. Lea… read more
(Excellent)
28 Nov 2012
Left by Workawayer (scobbah) for host
First of all, thank you so much! Four stars can't fully describe what a wonderful time we had staying with you, Rima and Dennis - there should've been an extra star for people like you. One week soon became a good two weeks, two weeks that truly show how great an exchange Workaway can be. We became immersed in Maori culture, history and a range of… read more
20 Nov 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (scobbah)
OMG what can we say about Alex & Asa they are the first two full on vegarian we have had staying with us and what a fabulous experience. Originally they planned to stay for a week and ended up staying two and we could have kept them here forever. They were honest, self-motivated and extremely considerate. Asa your Swedish chocolate balls were… read more
(Excellent)
16 Jun 2012
Left by Workawayer (Fionan) for host
Had a lovely time staying with Dennis and Rima, nice work out in the garden and orchard and a relaxed vibe in the house with the clever dogs and my favourite big black cat, Sooty. They have the most comfy bed you're ever likely to sleep on and will feed you well indeed as well as giving you cultural info and helping you plan things to see and do… read more
17 May 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Fionan)
Fionan is such I nice guy. We would be very happy to recomend him to any new host. He fitted into whanau lifestyle with ease and had a pleasant laid back attitude. He worked well alone, in a team enviroment and would give anything ago. We enjoyed your company Fionan and you well aways be welcome in our home.
Haere ra Rima & Dennis
Haere ra Rima & Dennis
(Excellent)
16 Apr 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (annaboelaert)
(Excellent)
16 Apr 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Greymuscat)
We loved these two they were hardworking and were happy to help out where ever they could highly recommend to anyone. Looking forward to them making NZ there permanent home one day and comming back for a visit with us.
(Excellent)
26 Mar 2011
Left by host for Workawayer (Douglas)
As a first-time host this was to be a great experience for us. Doug communicated well via email right from the word go before meeting. He asked if he could bring a travel companion which turned out to be his mum. And both of them worked extremely hard during there stay with us. We were very impressed well done both of you. We would be happy to… read more
(Excellent)
