new host   Last minute

Coastal homestead living by the water in Banks Peninsula, Akaroa, New Zealand

Availability

  2026 

 Min stay requested: No minimum

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    The homestead is a roughly 160 year old homestead on a lifestyle farm, where I grow most of our food.

    We have 4ha land, sheep, chickens, ducks, dogs, large gardens, two kids, a small business, and a big, old homestead to look after, so many skills needed here.

    The gardens are large, productive but some are messy at the moment. For now I am looking for a single person or couple to help with tidying the gardens, weeding, sorting firewood. I am studying herbal medicine, which means I am very busy and have let the gardens go a little, it is in desperate need of cleaning up. I would like someone who knows a little about plants and weeds and who can work unsupervised.

    I provide 3 meals a day and accomodation in exchange for 4 hours work a day. The room is beautiful and large, with a super king bed and a view of the water. I am happy to work around days off so you can explore the beautiful surrounds.

    Strictly no smokers please.

    We are across the harbour from the lovely tourist hotspot Akaroa. (20 minute's drive). Many things to do there, like dolphin tours, fishing, kayaking, also shops, coffee shops, restaurants etc. We are also walking distance from a lovely calm swim beach, Tikao bay, and right next to the well known Alpaca farm for farm tours. There are local hikes to explore as well or just relax in the pool.

    Good phone reception at our property and you can use our wifi. Our house is old, big and rich with history. Definately the oldest house in the area! It is very cosy and warm in winter and well insulated, so even on cold nights you will be comfortable. We heat the house with two (or sometimes 3) fires, and radiators. Come and step back in time and enjoy the luxury of gorgeous fires, beautiful stars and lots of space, good food, peace and quiet......In summer we have a big pool and cook on the fire outside if the weather permits.

    We are a well travelled, relaxed, friendly couple and look forward to spending time with fellow travellers.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    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
  • Interests

    Interests

    Pets
    Farming
    Plant care
    Music
    Gardening
    Drawing & painting
    DIY & crafts
    Cooking & food
    Books
    Art & design
    Animals
    Yoga / Wellness
    Nature
    Outdoor activities
    Hiking
    Beach
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    We are across the harbour from the lovely tourist hotspot Akaroa. (20 minute's drive). Many things to do there, like dolphin tours, fishing, kayaking, also shops, coffee shops, restaurants etc. We are also walking distance from a lovely calm swim beach, Tikao bay, and right next to the well known Alpaca farm for farm tours. There are local hikes to explore as well or just relax in the pool.

    I am a herbalist and I make all my own medicine, so if you are a plant lover or have an interest in Herbalism and plant medicine, there will be plenty of opportunity to learn here.

    I also have a small pottery studio and am happy to offer classes to anyone who are keen to make their very own piece to take on their travels. This will only be possible for longer stays as there is a little time involved in drying (weather dependent) and 2 kiln firings between making and glazing. This is not a free class as I will be providing all materials and kiln costs.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

    This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

  • Help

    Help

    For now I am looking for a single person or couple to help with tidying the gardens, weeding, sorting firewood. I am studying herbal medicine, which means I am very busy and have let the gardens go a little, it is in desperate need of cleaning up. I would like someone who knows a little about plants and weeds and who can work unsupervised. We have a building business, no workers will be asked to help with the business.

  • Languages spoken

    English: Fluent

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    I provide 3 meals a day and accomodation in exchange for 4 hours work a day. The room is beautiful and large, with a super king bed and a view of the water. I am happy to work around days off so you can explore the beautiful surrounds.

    Strictly no smokers please.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    Own transport is essential as we live remote and the closest shop a 10 minute drive from here.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    Two

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

    We have a German Shepherd and 2 cavoodles

Host ref number: 692118189316

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