Help out with a veggie garden and general maintenance in Auckland and Bay of Islands, New Zealand

New Zealand

Favourited 586 times

Host rating
Feedback
56
Last activity
07/12/2022
Reply rate
91.1 %
Average reply time:
within 14 days
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Availability

2022

Min stay requested: 1 week or less

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Description
We live the dream on a beatiful farmlet in the Bay of Islands. Close to everything and too many adventures to be had.
I am a retired Naturopath and Osteopath and well traveled myself. I volunteered in 2 projects in Africa .. It was amazing.
Joe is American, on his way to becoming a Kiwi. He has recently retired after 25yrs as a State Trooper... He is a regular genius. Not your regular Bloke. Loves hiking, wine making, bee keeping, flying and guitar.
We both love the out doors, beaches & diving, gardening, outdoors, art, refurbishing, music.
We are passionate about creating beautiful environments, relationships & things.
We are 4km from the historical township of Kerikeri.

We need help with creative projects and in refurbishing and maintaining the grounds & swimming pool.

You might like to check out my 100% rating for my Manly Beach and Kerikeri hosting over the last 10 years.

Tasks here range from cleaning, farm maintenance, gardening, building, art projects, computor help, organising me.....etc
We have chickens, and Kat.
We eat healthy and practice asustainable lifestyle.
There is a double room at the other end of the house and we supply meals in the week. You can pitch in with the cooking as you wish. The weekends are yours to go explore.
We can help you avoid the pitfalls of negotiating your way around a new country.
We look forward to hearing from you best wishes Barbara and Joe
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We provide a lot of local knoweledge. Have bikes you can borrow and as much as we can assist you we will.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
vege garden, general maintenance.
A builder would be great as there are a lot of HANDYMAN type jobs that are often required
There will also be an upfurb retail project under way in the future
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Great Kiwi farm house 5 mins from Keri Keri.
Sunny double bedroom

A comfortable room and everything supplied
What else ...
The Bay of Islands is Famous for its history and adventure possibilities. It is a $60 bus ride from central Auckland
In Ak there is a good bus service to surrounding area and express buses from Auckland City Airport to Kerikeri.
If you look in advance sometimes there are very cheap airfares direct from Auckland airport to the Bay of Islands airport
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
Hours expected
5 hours a day, 5 days a week

Photos

Bay of Islands Dream

Feedback left by and about host (56)

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:
(4.5)

Communication:
(4.7)

27/03/2021

Left by Workawayer (Samantha) for host

I stayed with Barbs in Dec 2020. She is super warm and welcoming. I really enjoyed my stay. Barbs was an excellent host and showed me around a few places locally and keen to introduce me to friends. The work was varied - I took great pleasure in doing some organising. It also included general garden maintenance work.
We still keep in regular… read more

(Excellent )

07/04/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)

Mike was a pleasure to have stay on our home very interesting and amiable character.
He was really hard working and self-directed and loved working outside.
Mike happily took Direction in new tasks and we would have loved to have him stay longer had the current situation not demanded he returned to the USA

(Excellent )

30/03/2020

Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host

I'll start with the bottom line - The experience of working with Barb and Joe at their lovely "farmlet" in Kerikeri and getting to know Barb and Joe was awesome. I was instantly welcomed in as a member of the family. The work was good and sweaty and extremely fulfilling - I essentially worked as a gardener most of my time there. We did lots of fun… read more

(Excellent )

28/01/2020

Left by Workawayer (Clara) for host

I stayed with Barbara a little over a week and had such a lovely time! Barbara is so welcoming and I immediately felt like being part of her family. We even went to the beach together and she introduced me to her kiwi lifestyle. Thank you again for everything Barbara!

(Excellent )

12/03/2019

Left by Workawayer (Sharon) for host

Staying at Barbara's and Joe's and working in the garden, as well as looking after dotty the cow, the 8 chooks, miss kat and the fish was fun. Barbara was welcoming, making sure I enjoyed myself as well as working. She helped me to get confident driving an automatic car on the other side of the road and gave me delicious things from the garden to… read more

(Very good )

27/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (CHARLOTTE)

Charlotte is one of lifes gems.
Not only is she extremely pleasant but very smart and helpful.
We loved her company and appreciated that she is a very non invasive guest to have around.
Lucky is anyone blessed with hosting her.
Thank you Charlotte, safe travels, we hope to see you again
Joe & Barb

(Excellent )

25/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (CHARLOTTE) for host

I stayed at Barbara's all November 2018, it was an amazing experience. My first workaway couldn't be better! She a kind and helpful person. The little old farm in kerikeri is so peaceful and so many to do! Barbara has a million things go to do everyday and it's a pleasure to help her.
Thank you for everything Barb!

(Excellent )

03/05/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Cesar)

Cesar is one of the best work aways we have had the pleasure to host.
He is respectful, helpful and hard working.
We wish him all the best.. Thank you for coming.
You are welcome any time
Barb & Joe

(Excellent )

01/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Cesar) for host

I stayed with bárbara and joe for about just 1 week. i was supposed to stay there for longer but barbara had a trip just 1 week after i arrived to the farm, so i had to leave. Because that travel i couldn't share much experiences or time with barbarawho was very busy. Joe, her husband, was great with me when he was in the farm, sometimes teaching… read more

(Very good )

31/01/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Wing Sze)

If you get to host this beautiful woman you are one of the lucky ones.
She is beyond brilliant. She is hard working, gracious, anticipates needs and difficulties. An amazing healer to boot.
She has become a treasured friend for life.
I WANT HER BACK......

(Excellent )

30/01/2018

Left by Workawayer (Wing Sze) for host

Life is really impermanent and amazing. Got destiny to meet Barbara at Terry and Max (my previous host) place unexpectedly on a morning, and started the awesome 6-day stay with Barb. Barb treated me as a family member rather than a workawayer indeed, always care for me and acknowledged my works. My tasks were meaningful and worthy, as we were… read more

(Excellent )

31/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (SUNGJAE) for host

Stayed about 10days.
I had pretty much enjoyed everything here with the people.
Babara, she has full of energy and lots of ideas for her garden, plenty of jobs to be done.
I enjoyed cooking a lot because people were delighted in korean food so much especially Jo and Adrian.
I also loved to listen my french busker roomate's lullaby, ukulele(we… read more

(Excellent )

17/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (Leo) for host

My experience with Barb and Jo was my fisrt workaway experience and was such a good time! Really nice accomodations and all the meals shared with them, all the week ends free and a lot of things to do around (Bay of Island, Charlies Rock, Puketi Forest or Rainbow Falls). Thank you again for all that you do for me, for helping me to open a bank… read more

(Excellent )

29/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Nadia) for host

We made arrangements with Barb, that we can stay at her place in Kerikeri. Unfortunately we got stuck in Kuala Lumpur because of some Visa iisues. We are very sorry about that because Barb must be an amazing host!! She offered us so much help with calling the flight companies or organising a doctors appointment in Australia. A van was also already… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Damien) for host

Really Nice time here I wanna see the pictures how is it now Barb!?
We were two frenchies for a couple of short weeks, a lot of work to be done and we were sometimes confused where to start as Barbara was busy, here and there. But she managed to spend great time like dinner with us and gave great advice to visit around. I really enjoyed this first… read more

(Very good )

14/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host

I had a brilliant time with Barbara. She is a very fun, kind, hardworking lady and I'm very happy that I got to meet her and help her out. I really hope to return :) Thanks for everything Barb!

(Excellent )

10/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Antonio) for host

Barbara has a lovely house and farmer in Keri Keri. She puts love in everthing she does. And She never stop doing things. Also, she is a very criative person and conscious.
She cooks very well and I'm lucky that I could enjoy a organic food and great vegetables from her garden.
I spent a great time in her house and farmer.
Thank you so much… read more

(Very good )

07/07/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Antonio)

Antonio is a giant of a young man in stature and quality.
He is quietish, respectful and really nice to have around.
He anticipates well and nothing is too much trouble.
You would be lucky to have him.
Cheers Barb

(Excellent )

20/05/2017

Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host

Great time spent with Barbara and the others workawayers, lovely person full of ideas and very generous, I will remember the good porridge for breakfast, the keefa for sure :)

Thanks Barbara, hope to see you again !

(Excellent )

29/11/2016

Left by Workawayer (Beatrice) for host

It has been a pleasure spending almost 10 days at Barabara s house which is a lovely confortable place super close to some beautiful beaches and the area all around is so nice and quiet! Barbara made me feel very welcome throughout my entire stay she s a very dynamic and sensitive woman who definitely loves making lists ;) and often I had to… read more

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Stephan)

Very sensible young man.
Strong and willing to help.
Thank you for coming
Best wishes
Barb

(Excellent )

10/11/2016

Left by Workawayer (Stephan) for host

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Guillaume)

Giem was a great help and lovely easy nature..
He helped with things quickly and efficiently
Thanks for your company and help

Barb

(Excellent )

20/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Guillaume) for host

I stayed at Barb's place for 2 weeks and enjoyed it very much, although it took me a little while to adapt myself to Barbara's very dynamic personality. She's a very easy going woman to live with.
Derick (her roommate) is an interesting guy, and I appreciated the discussions we had about his paintings or art in general.

The job was fair… read more

(Very good )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (PAULA)

Paula is smart, energetic and always cheerful.
She has become a trusted friend that is always a pleasure to have around.
Any Host or employer would be lucky to have her.

(Excellent )

27/06/2016

Left by Workawayer (PAULA) for host

I spent two weeks in Barb´s house and as my first WKWY experience it couldn´t be better. She is an amazing person, have a big heart and is always trying to help everyone. We become friends... we even went to a cruise together! You´ll find a lovely house and the job is just a little help in the house or the garden, she always found different… read more

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Dominique)

Great guy. Pleasure to have around.
Great help
Thanks Dom

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Irene)

Irene is an angel and is an asset to have visit.
She is articulate and helpful and self directed.
Lucky is any future host.
Barbara

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Jaime)

Jaime
Hey so sorry... I forgot to leave feed back.
You were a treasured help and guest.
Any host would be lucky to have you.
Very Best wishes

(Excellent )

12/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Jaime) for host

Barbara is a great person, the first who (tried) to speak in English for more than 5 minutes and despite my difficulty she was very understanding, helped me with lots of information and thanks to her I could enjoy more of this wonderful country.

Worth it !

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Birgit)

Thank you Birgit
You help and good company was very much appreciated.
I hope you have wonderful experiences and are appreciated as you should be everywhere you go.
Best wishes Barb

(Excellent )

11/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Mandy)

Mandy....Bless her ....Is an amazing privileged to have her help and great company.
Any host would be happy to have her around... Sooo capable, mature, practical and reliable
Thanks Mandy

(Excellent )

10/02/2015

Left by Workawayer (Mandy) for host

What an awesome experience! Barb is a kind, open hearted, genuine person who opens her home and her heart to those who are lucky enough to be welcomed here.
I spent three weeks helping Barb around the house and with a major declutter of her garage. During that time Barb made sure I got out to explore the area (and it is so beautiful) and I had… read more

(Excellent )

09/06/2016

Left by Workawayer (Dirk) for host

I had a really good time staying with Barb. The first day I got to meet two of her friends and we went to a Joe Cocker Tribute concert which was fun.

She also supported me to get some paid work, while I was staying with her.

The jobs I've been doing varied a lot from typing in receipts, to fix things, help with some art projects, some… read more

(Excellent )

04/01/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Annette)

Lucky is the host who has Annette to stay.
She is a charming, funny and intelligent woman. Her work ethic is high and she is naturally a fast mover and helpfully anticipates and executes immaculately all tasks. This helped me keep on track with things and achieve more than I could have wished.
She has become a valued friend..

Thank you… read more

(Excellent )

20/12/2015

Left by Workawayer (Annette) for host

Barb is a gemstone! I felt very welcomed from the very beginning. She has become a friend and I am looking forward to seeing her when I am back in NZ again.
Barbara needs help to keep her lovely house as nice as it is, so I helped in the garden , did some painting and tried to help her with whatever was necessary. She is always in a good mood,… read more

(Excellent )

04/01/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Ewa)

Ewa is a charming, gracious woman. Her work ethic is high and she is naturally helpful and immaculate in her execution of all tasks and helped me keep on track with things. She is fun and has a good heart.
She has become a valued friend whom I look forward to seeing again in Poland one day.
Lucky is anyone who gets to host her.
Thank you Ewa

(Excellent )

01/12/2015

Left by Workawayer (Ewa) for host

It was my first workaway experience and it was fantastic. I spent almost 3 weeks with Barbara.
Advantages:
- variety of tasks
- dynamic environment
- host with good energy and sense of humor
- appreciation of your job
- possibility of creative job
- participation in daily life of NZ household

Disadvantages
NA
Thank you Barbara:)

(Excellent )

26/08/2015

Left by Workawayer (Theuns) for host

I've spent a wonderful week with Barbara and Derek (her flatmate). She asked me to clad the walls and roof of her cabin. Since carpentry is my hobby at home, it was a project I absolutely loved. She made me feel welcome from day one. New Zealanders are very friendly and helpful people. I was introduced to the neighbor, some family members and… read more

(Excellent )

25/08/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Theuns)

Theuns was a delight to have stay. He is mature, respectful and very resourceful in helping me on a building project... Welcome back any time.
Thanks Theuns

(Excellent )

14/06/2015

Left by Workawayer (Arnaud) for host

I arrived at Barb's planning to stay a couple of weeks and ended up staying a few months. She's always so kind and helpful, helped me find a car and a job. The house is great in a great location, I just had a lovely time there.
Thank you Barbara!

(Excellent )

13/02/2015

Left by Workawayer (Jodie) for host

I could not have asked for a better first Workaway experience! Barb is so welcoming into her home and is a wonderful person. I spend only a week with Barb, but it is such a special part of my trip. The work was varied, gardening, cleaning, sewing, photographing clothes to sell, whatever needed doing. Barb's house is in a beautiful area, on a… read more

(Excellent )

10/02/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Jodie)

Jodie is a total English rose... She is a delightful human being and a joy to have around and nothing is too much trouble for her.
Anyone who gets to host her is blessed
Thank you Jodie and every best wish for fun safe travels
Barbara Godding DO ND

(Excellent )

13/12/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Philippe )

Philippe was a welcome guest in my home.
He is passionate about lifestyle and is a great gardener & problem solving handyman and has skills in the healing art. He is easy to have around and automatically shares in the day to day without having to be asked. He is very congenial, gentle and good natured.
A pleasure to host

(Excellent )

13/11/2014

Left by Workawayer (Philippe ) for host

I stay with Barbara for about a week and really appreciated being there and enjoyed her company. I worked in the garden and did a number of handy man jobs. The house is very comfortable and the beach just a few minutes walk. Thank you for having me in your home Barbara. This was a very pleasant and peaceful experience.

(Excellent )

07/10/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Miroslaw)

Miroslaw had been making arrangements for some months that he would be arriving at our home on 4th Oct. This he last confirmed on 30th Sept.
We had prepared accordingly.
He did not show or reply to us until late 7th Oct via work away site that he had made other arrangements and would no longer be coming and no apology for the inconvenience… read more

(Negative )

12/08/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Cyril)

Such a pleasure to have Cyril to stay... Very competent builder and joy to have around. Welcome any time..
Cheers Barb

(Excellent )

19/01/2014

Left by Workawayer (Cyril) for host

I spent a real good time with Barbara and her family and her neighbors. She's very lovely and there is lot of happiness with her. She's a little crazy and it's perfect! ; )
I help her to built a deck, shelves doors, gardening...all this in a beautiful place! I will never forget the time spent with her. Thanks for all Barbara..

(Excellent )

12/08/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Tim)

Tim is a completely gracious, resourceful human being and it was a pleasure to host him.
Welcome any time Tim.. Very best wishes

(Excellent )

27/04/2014

Left by Workawayer (Tim) for host

I stayed with Barbara for three months - there were plenty of jobs to do around the house and garden, and I enjoyed my time here very much. Plenty to eat, plus a lot of home grown veggies. Being a vegetarian was no problem. Its a great suburban location, quiet and peaceful, just 200 metres from a nice beach, and a 10 minute walk away from a… read more

(Excellent )

14/01/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Mercedes)

(Excellent )

12/01/2014

Left by Workawayer (Mercedes) for host

Thanks Barbara, for your nice welcome, good conversations, good meals... We had a great time at your house.

(Excellent )

08/01/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Angeline)

Angelina is a gracious and interesting person. She is most helpful and respectful and a pleasure to have around. Blessings on your travels..

(Excellent )

11/12/2013

Left by Workawayer (Angeline) for host

I had the most amazing experience with Barbara and those at her home I met through the projects and through local explorations. Barbara is a very energetic and delightful person who knows a lot about health and wellness. She was extremely mindful to our diets, and a pure delight to eat fresh fruits and vegetables straight out from her garden. I… read more

(Excellent )

24/02/2013

Left by host for Workawayer (Tanner)

A total sweetheart. Respectful and helpful.
Hope to see him back some time..

(Excellent )

22/02/2013

Left by Workawayer (Tanner) for host

I spent just under a week with Barb and had a lovely time. She is very welcoming and easy to talk to. She introduced to me to her lovely family that live nearby(I got to go fishing with them!). The wasn't strenuous and she is open to ideas on things. The food is fresh and delicious, too! Thanks again for everything, Barb.

P.s. The surrounding… read more

(Excellent )

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