Profile information
Host rating
90 %
Last replied
16 Jun 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
55
Email verified
Badges (3)
Give the gift of Workaway
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Details
Description
I live in a share house with one other person (male who is usually away) and a cat. I live less than a 5 minute walk from Narrabeen Beach which is a suburb about an hours bus ride from the city. I'd love help tidying and cleaning my house as I am not a good housekeeper. If you have permaculture or vegetable gardening skills that would be fantastic. I also have some painting and building work. I have Norwegian heritage and travel to Europe regularly. When I work I work in the Film and TV Industry finding the background artists (Extras). PLEASE SAY HELLO KARI I LIKE CATS when you respond I will not reply to messages that are obviously sent out to everyone who lives in Sydney!!!! Please be fluent in English as I'm getting older and don't have the patience to have to explain things.
This is not a backpackers, I'm not here to exploit you by making you work long hours, I'm more in this for company and cultural exchange, this is not for you if you just want to do some hours for free accommodation and don't want to be part of the household. If you're wanting to go partying every night and come home at all hours don't apply (especially on the first night you arrive). I prefer longer stays.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Elderly Companionship
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
a lazy older Australian's way of life very close to the beach :) Local knowledge I love showing you the sights. My thoughts are you are here to see a new country so I don't expect you to just be tidying my house the whole time, I want you to have fun and see the sights, to be beneficial for both of us, I'd like to make new friends, not have you stay in your bedroom all the time, if you are up for a swim every morning with me that would be an added bonus. I lead a healthy lifestyle, cook healthy foods and like to see you enjoying yourself, you might even get to play cards against humanity with my friends or pub trivia, after all this is your holiday BUT it is my house, if I feel you are taking advantage and not being respectful you'll be asked to move on, if we connect and all is smooth sailing you can stay for awhile :) WARNING I often lose my temper, I'm an impatient old grump but I'm also often very funny, enter at your own risk. MUST SPEAK ENGLISH, I'm not here to be your English teacher.
Help
I need help cleaning; tidying and organising my house and garden. No smokers or vegans or special dietaty needs like gluten free. Must like cats and be mindful not to let the cat escape. if you haven't read this I'll not respond. Permaculture or vegetable garden experience an advantage. Painting or minor building projects.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
comfortable couch or bed in living room or spare bedroom with large king single bed if my flatmate is away. PARTIAL FOOD ONLY
What else ...
Google Northern Beaches Sydney - I live between the surf beach and a lagoon. Narrabeen is one of the top surfing beaches in the world it's a half an hour bus ride to Manly Beach. There's bushwalking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, swimming and surfing. Restaurants and cafes are within walking distance. Lots of bushwalking and coastal walks. I have bicycles (which other workaways have found) and surfboards.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
nbn - fast internet
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
My animals / pets
Host ref number: 889652479367
Feedback (24)
5 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Fabian) for host
When I arrived at Kari's, I immediately felt at home. She is super fun and cares more about her people than she lets on. In addition, the tasks you have to do are manageable, so you have a lot of free time. You can also always talk to Kari. I would also recommend the trivia nights with Kari and her friends, they were fun every time. The morning… read more
4 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabian)
Fabian is a keeper, I didn't want to say goodbye. Fabian stayed with me for 2 weeks and he cleaned my house and kept it tidied. He has a great work ethic and he was always happy and smiling. I can highly recommend Fabian. Thanks for everything and I hope to see you again.
(Excellent
)
7 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Mikkel)
I highly recommend Mikkel, he could have stayed forever, he was a great addition to the house. He is a super nice guy and on top of that he is a willing and intelligent help around the house. I've had many workaways now and I can honestly say he's up there with the best. He's always welcome back.
(Excellent
)
7 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Mikkel) for host
My first Workaway experience was absolutely wonderful, and it was such a pleasure! I stayed at Kari’s Workaway for 2.5 weeks, almost 3, and had an amazing time. Kari is a fantastic host—funny, kind-hearted, and excellent at making you feel right at home. She’s also great at showing you around the area, sharing local tips, and even inviting you to… read more
3 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Anton)
If Anton requests to stay; say yes. He's been a pleasure to host, he's always in a good mood, he's intelligent and a very willing worker. He is a team player and got on with all the other guests. Anton is welcome back anytime; travel safely my friend and keep in touch.
(Excellent
)
3 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Anton) for host
I've now spent a full two months at Kari's, and those two months have been some of the best I've ever had. Whether it was morning swims (even though I often skipped them because I was too tired, haha), Trivia on Tuesdays and Thursdays, or simply listening to the countless stories Kari has gathered over the years – all of these make Kari's place… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.8)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(4.8)
5 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Fabian) for host
When I arrived at Kari's, I immediately felt at home. She is super fun and cares more about her people than she lets on. In addition, the tasks you have to do are manageable, so you have a lot of free time. You can also always talk to Kari. I would also recommend the trivia nights with Kari and her friends, they were fun every time. The morning… read more
4 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Fabian)
Fabian is a keeper, I didn't want to say goodbye. Fabian stayed with me for 2 weeks and he cleaned my house and kept it tidied. He has a great work ethic and he was always happy and smiling. I can highly recommend Fabian. Thanks for everything and I hope to see you again.
(Excellent)
7 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Mikkel)
I highly recommend Mikkel, he could have stayed forever, he was a great addition to the house. He is a super nice guy and on top of that he is a willing and intelligent help around the house. I've had many workaways now and I can honestly say he's up there with the best. He's always welcome back.
(Excellent)
7 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Mikkel) for host
My first Workaway experience was absolutely wonderful, and it was such a pleasure! I stayed at Kari’s Workaway for 2.5 weeks, almost 3, and had an amazing time. Kari is a fantastic host—funny, kind-hearted, and excellent at making you feel right at home. She’s also great at showing you around the area, sharing local tips, and even inviting you to… read more
3 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Anton)
If Anton requests to stay; say yes. He's been a pleasure to host, he's always in a good mood, he's intelligent and a very willing worker. He is a team player and got on with all the other guests. Anton is welcome back anytime; travel safely my friend and keep in touch.
(Excellent)
3 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Anton) for host
I've now spent a full two months at Kari's, and those two months have been some of the best I've ever had. Whether it was morning swims (even though I often skipped them because I was too tired, haha), Trivia on Tuesdays and Thursdays, or simply listening to the countless stories Kari has gathered over the years – all of these make Kari's place… read more
22 Oct 2024
Left by Workawayer (Emma) for host
Kari is one of a kind and you will be sure to have an unforgettable stay with her! She lives so near the beach it is amazing - you can join her on her daily swim every morning first thing! Kari is a wonderful cook and real foodie! She is also incredibly resourceful and sustainable when it comes to sourcing her produce!
12 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Emma)
Emma was great, fun to have around, a willing worker and her design skills helped me heaps.? She's welcome back anytime.
(Excellent)
2 Apr 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Nina)
Nina was a pleasure to host, she was funny, entertained us with her singing and kept beating us at card Monopoly, she was willing to help with whatever task was asked of her, I'd recommend Nina and she is always welcome here.
(Excellent)
30 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Frida)
Frida was amazing. I wish she would have stayed forever, she's intelligent easy going and a good worker and good fun to be with. Highly recommend, come back any time.
(Excellent)
29 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Frida) for host
I spent almost two weeks at Kari's lovely house in Narrabeen. Kari's one of a kind and she is so fun to be around. I would recommend people who are interested in a cultural exchange that like living with other people and spending time together. The tradition of the morning swim is something I loved and I also really enjoyed Kari's excellent… read more
12 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
Jimmy was a very willing worker, he was pleasant and got on with all the other guests, I'd recommend Jimmy and he's welcome back any time.
(Excellent)
9 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Outi)
Outi was amazing, she just naturally knew what needed to be done and did it, my garden and linen closet have never looked better, she was great company, joined in on all the fun activities with me and the other housemates. Outi has lots of stories to tell of her travels and life in interesting countries around the world, I can highly recommend her… read more
(Excellent)
9 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Outi) for host
Hi. I stayed with Kari for 10 nice days and it was fun. She is a real personality with very warm heart, but she is also very crazy in a good way. I get along with her very well and so did the others in the house. She shouts a lot, but that is part of her humor🙂.
Every morning I went to swim with her and then did some gardening. Narrabeen Beach is… read more
Every morning I went to swim with her and then did some gardening. Narrabeen Beach is… read more
4 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Léa)
Léa was wonderful, a breath of fresh air, she was an intelligent and willing worker, I loved having her in my house and can highly recommend her, Léa is welcome back always.
(Excellent)
4 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Léa) for host
Where to start ?? Kari’s profile is I think a really good picture of what’s happening in her sweet home ! Kari is hilarious, and have so many to share, her crazy stories but also the best places around !! I had such a great time there. I loved this community lifestyle, cooking together, eating together, playing games and so on.
Missions were… read more
Missions were… read more
19 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Katharina)
Wow, what a gorgeous woman, Kat is just like her photo, a ray of sunshine, always happy and positive and fun to be around. Kat is a great worker, she is intelligent, I left her to her own devices and my house always looked fantastic, I hope she comes back some day, she's always welcome and China, the cat thought she gave the best head scratches… read more
(Excellent)
19 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Katharina) for host
What can I say? If you are someone who is looking for a cultural exchange, looking to learn new life skills, like giving cats some headscratches and enjoy the ocean, then Kari is your perfect host! She is super self reflective which is absolutely inspiring and if you read her profile, you will get a very accurate picture of what to expect when you… read more
9 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Inge)
Inge was only with me a week but it seemed like I've known her for longer, she was a very capable and willing worker and was a pleasure to have in the house, she got on well with all the other guests. I wish her all the best in her life and her travels and she's welcome back any time.
(Excellent)
9 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Inge) for host
I only stayed for a week but I had a lovely time. Loved hearing all of Kari her travel and life stories. She's quite a character and a very nice woman. Communication about the work was good. She'll help you figure out things to do in the area and how to get around as well, plus you're a three minute walk away from the beach so you could enjoy that… read more
29 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Theresia) for host
I had my first workaway experience with Kari and it couldn't have been better. With her humorous personality, Kari brings dynamism to every dinner, often with entertaining stories about her previous travels or experiences with workaways. As Kari is very active, spontaneous and funny, she didn't feel like a grandmother to me but more like a friend… read more
16 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Theresia)
I can highly recommend Theresia, she was a very willing worker and got along well with all the other houseguests, she has a great personality, she's welcome back anytime.
(Excellent)
5 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Firdaus)
Firdaus is very caring and a willing worker, he kept my house and garden very tidy, he contributed to the entertainment in the house with all the other guests with his many card games. I'd recommend him and he's always welcome.
(Excellent)
16 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Tim) for host
My stay with Kari in Narrabeen was great. Kari is what Workaway is meant for. She describes herself accurately in her own profile, but that just goes to show she's straightforward. When you go to Kari's, you will always know where you're at. She has a few things that she wants to have done, and a as a Workayer you add some of your own, and then… read more
16 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Tim)
Wow, if Tim requests to stay with you say yes with a capital Y. He's a self confessed people pleaser and he sure was. I left him to his own devices and my house has never been more organised and clean. As well as being a work horse he's also a genuinely lovely person, super intelligent (we won pub trivia with him on our team), very easy going. I… read more
(Excellent)
1 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Andrea)
Andrea is amazing, not only is she a beautiful soul but she's intelligent and caring with a great sense of humour and she has a great work ethic. She could have stayed forever as far as I was concerned. If Andrea requests to stay with you, do yourself a favour and say yes. Andrea is welcome back anytime and I hope she does come back. Thanks Andrea.
(Excellent)
25 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Andrea) for host
Where do I even begin! I'm glad to have gotten to stay at Kari's for a month and experience her lifestyle 😊 The early morning swims, excursions, crazy stories and yummy cooking has all been amazing, I will miss it all. If you stay with Kari you won't be bored, and might be lucky to see the dolphins, whales, octopus and ossies!!
As for the work I… read more
As for the work I… read more
19 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Berend)
Beer was good fun to have around, he worked well and fitted into the household, great communication, very reliable, I would recommend him and he's welcome back any time.
(Excellent)
19 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Fredrik)
Fredrik stayed for a week, he was very easy going, great to have around, he worked well with little supervision, very responsible. He had a great sense of humour and got on well with the other house guests. I'd highly recommend him and he's welcome back anytime. Tusen takk Freddie. Cards against humanity was very entertaining.
(Excellent)
14 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Chloe) for host
This was my first workaway and it was truly amazing! I stayed here for two weeks. Kari is really fun and really does go for a swim every morning. The work I was asked to do was not too hard. Kari is an interesting and creative person and there are plenty of things to do here. There was a big surf competition here and she linked me up with a local… read more
13 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Chloe)
Chloe was great fun, she came swimming with me every morning, which isn't easy on these cold winter mornings. Chloe was a great help around the house and she is welcome back anytime.
(Excellent)
28 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jill) for host
Kari's place is great! Her location can't get better than two blocks from the beach, a short walk to the stores, lagoon and bus. I was hoping to get sunny beach weather during my two week stay and Narrabeen certainly delivered, despite a few cyclones coming through.
Kari is definitely a character and may take some time to get used to her humor,… read more
Kari is definitely a character and may take some time to get used to her humor,… read more
22 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jill)
Jill is wonderful, she was a delight to host we had a lot of fun, she handled all her tasks well, she helped me in my garden weeding, cleaning out the compost and generally tidying up the house and garden. Hopefully she'll come back again, she's always welcome.
(Excellent)
1 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (AnneTie)
WOW, what can I say, I really didn't want Anne to leave, she came for two weeks and stayed over 2 months. She is a gem, she's very pleasant company and she's practical, she can fix anything from sewing up ripped dresses to mending broken suitcase workings, she's great in the garden and the kitchen. In the end I just left Anne to do her own thing… read more
(Excellent)
25 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Leonie )
Leonie's stay wasn't long enough, she was a great help around the house, I wish her well with her heavy backpack, she is welcome back any time.
(Excellent)
7 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Manfred) for host
My stay with Kari was fun. She let me take part on her social life, meeting with friends, going to the tennis 👍👍 or playing Trivia at the Club.
The work I enjoyed and was easy. Unfortunately there was not enough work to be done. So I been asked to move on.
The work I enjoyed and was easy. Unfortunately there was not enough work to be done. So I been asked to move on.
5 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Manfred)
Manfred was good company, very easy going, fun to have in the house, he repaired my deck and cleaned out my shed, cupboard and carport with Swiss Virgo precision (almost too good :)) Hopefully he'll return next time he's in the area.
(Excellent)
7 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
Kari is a straight forward and great host. She has a good idea of the work she wants done but is also willing to work with you to find the things that best suite you. She is generous and wants to share all of Sydney and Australian culture. We had a ball, swimming, going to shows, playing trivia, chatting, finding local adventures ect. She has tons… read more
6 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
If I could leave 10 stars I would, Sarah is a great workaway to have in your house, she stayed with me for 6 weeks, she was the perfect guest. She has a passion for life and she just gets on with it, I left her mostly to her own devices and she worked in the garden and around the house willingly and she just knew what needed doing. I live near the… read more
(Excellent)
10 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Claire) for host
Great week at Kari's place. I loved my time with her, which was unfortunately too short! Kari is generous, flexible and I thanks her for taking me earlier than expected! This workaway is wonderful near the sea that I fully recommand! The place to be in Sydney :)
6 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Claire)
Wow, Claire was fantastique!! What a pleasure it was to host this vibrant young French woman, Claire cane in and cleaned and organised my kitchen cupboards helped weed the garden and cooked some delicious food. Claire is a self confessed machine, she just does things willingly without being asked, she's the creme de la creme of workaways and on… read more
(Excellent)
24 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Lucia Sophie) for host
Kari was a lovely and welcoming host. I had a wonderful stay at her place. She has a lot of energy, good advices and is inspiring. I could learn a few things about gardening and had the best conversations with her and she showed me around in the beautiful Narrabeen. Thank you for everything.
24 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lucia Sophie)
Lucia worked really well, she cleaned and organised my house better than ever, she was fun to have around especially with her guitar and great singing voice, thanks Lucia I'm sure you'll be back.
(Very good)
19 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Stanislaw) for host
If you like long walks along the beach and morning swimming in the sea, this is the place to be. Kari is very friendly, patient and will always try to help you. Many thanks for being able to stay at her house and visit Sydney.
18 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Stanislaw)
Stan was the best, he's a builder so he knows how to fix things, he painted, fixed the downpipe, plastered walls and helped in the garden, he was a pleasure to have in the house, he was always fun and great company, Stan is welcome back anytime wróć Stanisław
(Excellent)
14 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (neko28) for host
I definitely enjoyed my stay at Kari’s. She is a kind, thoughtful, and very generous person. She took me to many places in the area and encouraged me to go out and discover the city. I loved our morning walk to the beach (she swims everyday, even in the winter!), I liked her cooking (she makes soup with ingredients from her garden, she bakes her… read more
11 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (neko28)
Kayo was very respectful, it was fun having her stay, she helped with cleaning and organising cupboards, I enjoyed her company and would be happy for her to come and stay with me again. Thanks Kayo.
(Excellent)
18 Aug 2022
Left by Workawayer (Neil) for host
Kari is a generous and fun host. She really enjoys showing her Workawayers around the Sydney area, seeing the sites and exploring and you will learn a great deal from your time staying with her. It’s a fantastic city, made even more interesting by Kari’s knowledge and her willingness to share her many friends and her social life with you. The… read more
4 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Neil)
I can highly recommend Neil, he never stopped working, his energy level is high and he has an amazing work ethic, nothing was too much trouble. He is able to fix just about anything. Very respectful, easy going and lots of fun, great sense of humour. He painted a huge living area, cleaned up and sorted lots of mess, repaired broken doors, attached… read more
(Excellent)
4 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicholas)
Nick was great, he worked well, especially if you need some muscle and he's done lots of building work so he's a great asset. He helped paint a huge room plus cleaned and sorted a huge mess. Thanks Nick you're welcome back anytime.
(Excellent)
24 Jun 2022
Left by Workawayer (Earthmother1958) for host
28 May 2022
Left by Workawayer (Christina) for host
Kari is the best! I intended to stay for a week but ended up staying two because i had such a beautiful and great time with her. We went for a swim almost everyday in the morning, had great conversations (she has adventures stories to tell) and lots of fun (her humour is the best). She is a great cook and very generous. Because Kari is living in… read more
28 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Christina)
Wow what a gem Christina is. She is friendly, cheerful and an excellent worker, with a great work ethic. We became close friends even though there is a 50 year age gap. She came for 1 week but stayed for 2, we swam every day and had lots of adventures. Christina is welcome back any time. A huge thank you Christina and her lasagne was great too and… read more
(Excellent)
14 Apr 2018
Left by Workawayer (Charlotte kibenich) for host
My best recommendation to this wonderful woman. I have stayed at Karis place for 21 exciting days. She’s a glad, active and exciting lady. She loves to show her town and area and knows a lot abou it - I have seen a lot of local places and met a lot of wonderful people because of Kari.
She lives vary close to som wonderful beaches and nature.
If… read more
She lives vary close to som wonderful beaches and nature.
If… read more
14 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte kibenich)
Charlotte was my first workaway and she is my best so far :D - Charlotte cleaned my house she didn't need any supervision she helped me organise my cupboards - she cooked me some lovely Danish dishes and we had great fun exploring the local area. Charlotte is very happy and has a great sense of humour I really enjoyed her company and having her… read more
(Excellent)
