Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
28 Mar 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
24
Email verified
Badges (3)
Details
Description
I live in a bush and sea setting in a home I built myself. I have a dog named Pipsqueak . We live on solar power and hot water. I have sailed the world and swallowed the anchor here in the Bay of Islands, NZ. I am the ancient mariner. I can offer a warm dry cottage for accommodation with access to own bathroom and hot shower.
The work entails painting, gardening, building, firewood collecting and other home related help. I am away for some weekends and would like folks to be here over those periods.
I live 2 kilometres from the port of Opua, a mecca for sailors worldwide. From here if you want to go sailing there is an opportunity to contact voyaging sailors and perhaps find crew positions. I have introduced several people to this lifestyle.This is also a good fishing spot and has a selection of cafes and marine related industry.
Although I am older and need assistance in my projects, there an opportunity to learn and experience many things in your work.. I have a wide range of practical achievements behind me and can lead my helpers to learn and feel confident in "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) projects. I see myself as the mentor and guide for folk who want to live in a sustainable way.
I like to work with my helpers to give them the time to explore this part of New Zealand. I can offer guidance and recommendations and a time schedule that suits us both.
I have had an adventurous life and need to write my story. Maybe someone can help me with that and transcribe my life?
If this is something you might like to share in please contact me.
Types of help and learning opportunities
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
I can assure you my place is a model of the 'Kiwi' way. I try to build and maintain everything myself. I try to live in a sustainable fashion and am mindful of this earth's finite resources and yet live a full and rich life.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
If you are interested in living "Off-The-Grid" then I can give you a lead into how to achieve this with minimum outlay. I have lived with solar electricity and solar hot water for 20 years. I also harvest my own rain water using techniques that ensure pure, clean drinking water with no industrial contaminates. I work with my daughter on her horse farm and sometimes need assistance there. There are 2 bikes available with a selection of very good trails close by.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Accommodation is in a caravan which is warm and dry. Meals can be taken with me or do for yourself if needs be.
What else ...
If you have some practical skills or a need to learn and grow skills then I am the practical teacher having built my own boat, houses and 'plane.
The Bay of Islands is a renowned plave to visit in New Zealand with beaches, islands warm weather and good folks.
I am mindful of the need of travelers to explore and learn about the community in which they live and work. I like to manage a schedule that meet my helpers expectations.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
Space for parking camper vans
Ok for campers
Can possibly accept pets
This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Feedback (17)
He is really a nice host and he shared a lot with us about New Zealand, his life and all his travels.
We really felt at home with him, and that's why we came back several times. He is like a grand father to us… read more
Photos
Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
He is really a nice host and he shared a lot with us about New Zealand, his life and all his travels.
We really felt at home with him, and that's why we came back several times. He is like a grand father to us… read more
Both were incredibly thoughtful, helping me in my search for a boat to sail away, introducing me to their friends, and generally being wonderful hosts - Thanks Mitch for teaching me how… read more
It was a pleasure to work and spend time with him, his family, and unique friends, like i said, 2 weeks… read more
I helped them here and there around the property and also inside the house and I really felt at home 200% of the time.
Russ is the personification of the real "kiwi man", a ready to action jack of all trades, and Mitch is a very… read more
And of course their area is just awesome, so many things to do !!
I'll come back to say hi… read more
