Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
20 Aug 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
45
Email verified
Badges (3)
Give the gift of Workaway
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Details
Description
My husband & I have 3 adult children no longer living at home. We have hosted school exchange students through AFS many times in the past. We have a house by the beach which is an old 3 bedroom villa which we are still renovating. Workawayers have their own room but share bathroom, kitchen and laundry. We also have a 30 acre lifestyle block further up the coast going inland, about 10 mins drive away. This piece of land needs weed control and some fencing. It is our lifestyle block and we run some sheep and cattle on it.
We have a large vegetable garden on the farm and we have free range ducks and chickens. We can accomodate vegetarians but not really vegan friendly as we eat our own meat, vegetables & eggs.
We would expect our Workawayers to do 4-5 hour day with 2 days off each week. Days negotiable of course. Three meals a day are provided for the days you work. We try to eat seasonally off the land. We would expect you to share with the cooking and cleaning up. We ask that volunteers organise their own food for their days off (many choose to go on overnight trips for their 2 days off). There is plenty to do on days off i.e. dunes trail for bikes and walking, hiking tracks, and trips up the coast or to the next township.
My husband is a handyman/farmer & I am a nurse.
The internet can be accessed by wireless broadband.
We have 2 dogs which live outside.
We are non smokers and would only want non smokers please.
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
Help with Computers/ Internet
House sitting
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
They will benefit by mixing with this community. And they can learn quite a lot about our bicultural community.
Help
Help with farming, planting trees, gardening, cleaning outside of house, house work, cooking, clearing gorse, spraying gorse, fencing.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Two single beds in an outside room. Shared bathroom, living area & kitchen.
What else ...
Volunteers can spend time on the beach.
There is a walking/cycling track at our backdoor.
Catch a bus to the next big centre or spend time in Opotiki.
Some good walking tracks around the area, and a famous very old tree at Hikutaia Domain. Plenty of wonderful sights to be seen up the coast. Having your own car would be an advantage as there is limited public transport from Opotiki and none from our place into Opotiki.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Zak
Zak is a 13 yr old male dog Very quiet & nervous dog. He lives outside
Host ref number: 987758617959
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+11
Feedback (21)
27 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Alana & Kathleen) for host
Such a great two weeks spent working at a farm by the sea! Debi and Kim were welcoming and made us feel right at home. We got to do a fun variety of tasks and absolutely loved the food as well! Walking the dogs on the beach, spending time cooking together & feeding the animals were big highlights. Would return in a heartbeat! Truly a highlight of… read more
25 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Alana & Kathleen)
These two young woman were willing to give all jobs a go and did them well. Helpful around the house. Took initiative. Very easy to get on with. We would have them back anytime. We wish them well in their journeys.
(Excellent
)
21 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Delphine & Arnaud)
Delphine & Arnaud were great to have at our place, They were good company, helped with any task asked of them & willing to help in any way. They used their initiative & worked well on their own. They cooked us a beautiful meal before they left which has left our 7yr old grandson wanting Belgian food every night. We wish them the best for the rest… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Delphine & Arnaud) for host
We really enjoyed our stay with the lovely couple Debi and Kim. Very cool to be able to help on the farm and seeing the result of the work although we did only stay for about 10 days. If you like to experience life on a farm, this is definitely for you! Kim and Debi will also recommend wonderful places or things to visit in the neighbourhood. Next… read more
2 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Hannes Ole) for host
I spent 10 lovely days with Debi and Kim, surrounded by adventure and nature. Their beautiful home is located right by the beach, making it easy to enjoy surfing, swimming every day. Helping out on their small farm was an incredible experience, I learned so much about animal care and what it takes to keep a small farm running. Each day brought… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannes Ole)
Very willing worker. Easy to have around. Keen to learn and easy to set to tasks. We enjoyed having him. Joined in conversations with family. Did not exclude himself socially.
(Very good
)
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+11
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:
(4.8)
27 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Alana & Kathleen) for host
Such a great two weeks spent working at a farm by the sea! Debi and Kim were welcoming and made us feel right at home. We got to do a fun variety of tasks and absolutely loved the food as well! Walking the dogs on the beach, spending time cooking together & feeding the animals were big highlights. Would return in a heartbeat! Truly a highlight of… read more
25 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Alana & Kathleen)
These two young woman were willing to give all jobs a go and did them well. Helpful around the house. Took initiative. Very easy to get on with. We would have them back anytime. We wish them well in their journeys.
(Excellent)
21 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Delphine & Arnaud)
Delphine & Arnaud were great to have at our place, They were good company, helped with any task asked of them & willing to help in any way. They used their initiative & worked well on their own. They cooked us a beautiful meal before they left which has left our 7yr old grandson wanting Belgian food every night. We wish them the best for the rest… read more
(Excellent)
19 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Delphine & Arnaud) for host
We really enjoyed our stay with the lovely couple Debi and Kim. Very cool to be able to help on the farm and seeing the result of the work although we did only stay for about 10 days. If you like to experience life on a farm, this is definitely for you! Kim and Debi will also recommend wonderful places or things to visit in the neighbourhood. Next… read more
2 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Hannes Ole) for host
I spent 10 lovely days with Debi and Kim, surrounded by adventure and nature. Their beautiful home is located right by the beach, making it easy to enjoy surfing, swimming every day. Helping out on their small farm was an incredible experience, I learned so much about animal care and what it takes to keep a small farm running. Each day brought… read more
1 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannes Ole)
Very willing worker. Easy to have around. Keen to learn and easy to set to tasks. We enjoyed having him. Joined in conversations with family. Did not exclude himself socially.
(Very good)
14 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Victoria ) for host
Debi and Kim were the most welcoming hosts I could have hoped for! Straight off the bat they took me to community events, introduced me to all of their friends as well as their son and daughter-in-law (who we had dinner with most nights). You're quickly made to feel part of the family and they create a really easy going living and working… read more
14 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Victoria )
Victoria was willing to learn new skills. She did a variety of outdoor jobs while staying here. She gave everything a good go and put in her hours. Good effort all round. She was easy to have in the house and participated in family time with us. She comes highly recommended. We wish her well on her journey.
(Excellent)
22 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Lili & Johannes) for host
We stayed with Debbi and Kim for a week and had a wonderful time! They are super welcoming and included us in many activities and we got to meet some of their lovely friends and family. The meals were super delicious and we had fun helping on their farm and at the garden. All of the animals are super friendly especially the dogs. The area is… read more
23 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Lisa & Xenia Cecilia)
Unfortunately one the girls did not have a profile page. So we did not know about her dietary requirments. They did their best and were pleasant company when they interacted. They have learnt some new skills and we wish them well in their NZ adventure.
(Very good)
19 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Fanny)
Fanny stayed and looked after our home and our lifestyle block while we were away for 10 days. She was reliable and honest. Managed all the chores well. Easy to get along with.
(Excellent)
2 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Lea Sophie & Simon) for host
We've stayed almost 2 weeks with Debi and Kim. It was such a great time, because they alwaya gave us the opportunity to meet new people. We also did plenty tasks on their beautiful farm, like planting many many trees. :)
We enjoyed our stay a lot and are so thankful for those great experiences!
Thanks Debi and Kim!
We enjoyed our stay a lot and are so thankful for those great experiences!
Thanks Debi and Kim!
22 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Lea Sophie & Simon)
Lea Sophie & Simon were very helpful. They were willing to learn and try new experiences. They completed all tasks even though some were a bit hard. Thanks both of you.
(Very good)
29 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Andréa & Julie) for host
Thanks Deby and Kim for your help !
They know how to help people who start to learn english and invite you to meet ans talk with other people.
We had the chance to do various evening and share with some Friends.
Sea just behind, Yam meals, lovely dogs and a pig who like yo eat your shoes. Funny, thank you
They know how to help people who start to learn english and invite you to meet ans talk with other people.
We had the chance to do various evening and share with some Friends.
Sea just behind, Yam meals, lovely dogs and a pig who like yo eat your shoes. Funny, thank you
29 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Andréa & Julie)
Andrea & Julie were great to have around. They did any jobs we asked of them from washing the house to gardening and looking after our dogs and pet pig. They tried anything. Andrea was even our sober driver one evening. Would be happy to have them back and recommend them to anyone. Easy to get along with.
(Excellent)
28 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Moritz & Anna) for host
We had an amazing time, however far too short, with Debi and Kim. They are such a nice couple and so welcoming - to be with them felt like home! We fell in love with their lovely dogs and their home, which is a little paradise. We really hope to see you again, we miss you already!
14 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Matt & Catriona) for host
Debi and Kim are wonderful people who always made us feel at home. We really liked that they had a list of chores to be done so we could pick and choose as we pleased. They also have 2 amazing dogs that we loved walking on the beach. It what so nice to have a gorgeous sandy beach 2 minutes away from the house. It was also really cool doing a few… read more
14 Jan 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Matt & Catriona)
Matt & Catt stayed with us for a short while. They worked through the list of jobs we needed doing. Once we set them up we left them to it. They worked well, were cheerful and good company. We were sad when they quickly managed to get paid employment. We missed their company. They come well recommended from us to any one wishing to have them… read more
(Very good)
4 Jan 2017
Left by Workawayer (Sophie & Verena) for host
We really enjoyed our stay with Kim & Debi. They are so friendly and the dogs are absolutely gorgeous
The work was fair and never too hard.
Thank you for the nice evenings which were very funny while playing Yhatzee :D
The work was fair and never too hard.
Thank you for the nice evenings which were very funny while playing Yhatzee :D
27 Dec 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Sophie & Verena)
Sophie & Verena worked well at our place. They were pleasant to have around. Worked away at the listed jobs we needed doing. I hope they enjoy the rest of their time in Aotearoa.
(Very good)
8 Nov 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Jéremy & Camille)
Jeremy and Camille worked really well with Raif and did anything asked of them. Raif enjoyed their company and found them both good workers. We recommend them. Thanks guys for your help.
(Excellent)
4 Nov 2015
Left by Workawayer (Jéremy & Camille) for host
We stayed 2 weeks with Raif who is the son of Debi and Kim. The Job passed well and they were funny too because we drove a tractor and digger. Raif is very nice with us because he help us to find a job in orchard.
The house is very nice with a beautiful garden which allows to relax. The family have got two dog who are very nice and friendly.… read more
The house is very nice with a beautiful garden which allows to relax. The family have got two dog who are very nice and friendly.… read more
20 Jan 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva )
Eva was very willing to try new jobs, willing to try anything. She helped with shearing, or wool handling. She also participated with hay making for an afternoon & washed the outside of our house & cleaned the back yard. Our 3 yr old granddaughter loved her & Eva was great with her. We recommend her to anyone.
(Very good)
8 Nov 2014
Left by Workawayer (Gloria) for host
Debi and Kim are fantastic hosts, they allow me sharing their house until I have found another family to stay with. They advised me in every thing I needed and told and show me interesting things about Opotiki. They always have a range of jobs for you to do. I have enjoyed their company and to meet their lovely family and friends. Thank you very… read more
1 Nov 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Gloria)
Gloria is lovely to have around the house. She is considerate & thoughtful. She is a great worker and is happy to put her hand to any task given to her e.g. housework, cleaning, weeding & and helping with the animals (docking lambs) & is very thorough. She puts in a very good days work & we would recommend her to anyone.
(Excellent)
13 Oct 2014
Left by Workawayer (Natascha) for host
Debby, Kim and their family are very nice and welcoming people! I felt very comfortable at their home and would recommend them to everybody! :) The work was fair and the Gingercrunch and all the cakes (in that short time ;)) just yummy ;) Thank you!! :)
7 Oct 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Natascha)
Natascha was very easy to get on with. She would do any task, and shared household chores. She fitted in well with our family and we would recommend her to anyone.
(Excellent)
24 Mar 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliane)
A very willing worker. Honest and easy to have around. Thanks for your help Juliane. All the best with the rest of your travels. Regards
D & K
D & K
(Excellent)
24 Mar 2014
Left by Workawayer (Juliane) for host
I spend about a week at Kim and Debi's place, taking care of everything while they were gone for the weekend and helping Kim on the farm. I really enjoyed my time with them, especially the walks on the beach.
7 Mar 2014
Left by host for Workawayer (Chiara)
Chiara & Marco were so good to have around. They cooked some lovely meals, gave Kim instruction on computer skills, tidied the garden which was quite a mess, cleaned the house and more, A lovely couple who we hope we will meet again. Probably in Italy. Regards from Debi & Kim
(Excellent)
15 Dec 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Maren93)
Maren & her friend Lucie stayed at our place for 11 days. They were great workers & extremely easy to live with. They washed the outside of the house, beautifully, I might add, they weeded the garden, washed dishes, cooked, cleaned, helped on the farm and helped with childcare for our granddaughter, mowed the lawns & used their own initiative to… read more
(Excellent)
13 Oct 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (coolmodee)
Pleasant couple who tried some new tasks with enthusiasm. Honest & reliable. And baby Ben was a delight. Lovely to meet this young family.
(Very good)
18 Sep 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Magnus)
Thanks for all your help Magnus. You are very keen to try different things willingly. A great help.
All the best Debi & Kim
All the best Debi & Kim
(Very good)
17 Sep 2013
Left by Workawayer (Magnus) for host
I stayed last week with Debi & Kim and it was so great! Kim told me many interesting things about possums and New Zealand and showed me a beautifull part of the Bay of Plenty. The batch on the hill is awesome I will defently come back and stay there for a night :)
Thank you so much for hosting me I can highly recommend Kim & Debi's place to all… read more
Thank you so much for hosting me I can highly recommend Kim & Debi's place to all… read more
12 Sep 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (jonwyatt)
Great couple, did lots of different work for us, gardening, helping on farm, walking the dogs, & some cooking. Have fun on your travels. Regards
Debi & Kim
Debi & Kim
(Excellent)
31 Aug 2013
Left by Workawayer (jonwyatt) for host
Kim and Debi typify why exactly you'd want to get involved with workaway. They are fantastic hosts who immediately make you feel part of their family and always have a range of interesting jobs for you to contribute to. They are great company and both have a wealth of knowledge of kiwi culture and nature. Thanks again for a great stay and sharing… read more
5 Aug 2013
Left by Workawayer (Julius_Thessa) for host
We liked it a lot with Debi and Kim and thank them so much for everything they have done for us!
We enjoyed walking the dogs on the beach and to get to know the work on a farm and to move the animals from one paddock to another. We loved the evenings with chocolate and icecream, playing cards.
It was a great experience. Thank you!
We enjoyed walking the dogs on the beach and to get to know the work on a farm and to move the animals from one paddock to another. We loved the evenings with chocolate and icecream, playing cards.
It was a great experience. Thank you!
3 Jul 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Julius_Thessa)
Very good gardeners, helped with household chores. Unfortunately it rained a lot when they were here so outside jobs couldn't be completed.
(Very good)
17 Jul 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (JoelPG)
(Neutral)
15 Jul 2013
Left by Workawayer (JoelPG) for host
I stayed one week with Kim, Debi, an exchange student and sometimes friends of the family. I liked the farming work with Kim and the morning walks on the beach with the dogs. Driving that old tractor to transport the firewood was fun :-D. Nice evening card games with Kim and Rudi. Very delicious dinners.
Surprisingly Debi and I didn't get along.… read more
Surprisingly Debi and I didn't get along.… read more
19 Jun 2013
Left by Workawayer (CHUN-HAN) for host
Good day! How have you guys been? really miss you all LoL..We are back to Taiwan for couple of months. I got a internship while I arrived Taiwan at second day. Thing's been a bit complicated, my young is getting married in the end of this year and my father's healthy condition is getting worse than what I expected. Other than that, I've got a… read more
13 Jun 2013
Left by Workawayer (Jan & Yvonne) for host
It was a real pleasure to meet this lovely family! Thanks for everything!
Greetings, Jan and Yvonne
Greetings, Jan and Yvonne
2 May 2013
Left by host for Workawayer (Jan & Yvonne)
Jan & Yvonne were reliable, considerate & honest. They house sat for us, looked after animals & worked on our life style block. They joined in with our family easily & were easy to get along with. We would have them back anytime. We wish them well with their adventures. Debi & Kim
(Excellent)
27 Jan 2013
Left by Workawayer (Elina) for host
We arrived in this beautiful place after Christmas, and spend our fist New Year in New Zealand with Debi and Kim! We were accepted from first day, and they made us feel like home.
If You are looking forward to meet the really nice, open minded and welcoming people - this is the right direction where to start!
Perfect place where to explore kiwi… read more
If You are looking forward to meet the really nice, open minded and welcoming people - this is the right direction where to start!
Perfect place where to explore kiwi… read more
14 Dec 2012
Left by host for Workawayer (Elina)
An absolutly fabulous and hard working couple. Couldn't have asked for better people.
(Excellent)
