Join our native forest and wetland regeneration project in Hokianga, New Zealand

Infos

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  Description

  Looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature and wildlife?
  Our idyllic 80-acre property in the Hokianga is a mix of rolling farmland, regenerating bush, and wetlands — a place of tranquillity, creativity, and re-connection with the land.
  
  We’re Emily and Shay, a nurse and an online developer, and for many years we ran a small animal sanctuary here. During that time, amazing Workawayers from all over the world became part of our lives — some stayed for months, many returned, and all helped create a home filled with kindness, laughter, and purpose.
  
  These days, due to health challenges, the sanctuary has moved on to new caretakers, and we’re turning our focus to restoring and refreshing our home and whenua. Our project now centers on regenerating native forest, reviving our wetlands, and gradually returning sections of pasture back into thriving ecosystems. It’s a slower, quieter chapter — grounded in healing, balance, and helping the land recover after years of giving everything to animal care.
  
  We’re a vegan household and ask that Workawayers respect this while staying with us. You’re welcome to prepare your own meals in the kitchen, but we keep the property free from meat and animal products, however meals will be provided for. It’s a relaxed, friendly space — simple, peaceful, and low-pressure.
  
  Our land is in a critical stage of healing. The native bush is reclaiming old paddocks, the wetlands are slowly returning to life, and every small action — planting, clearing, mulching, repairing — helps restore habitats for birds, insects, and native species.
  
  By joining us, you’re not just helping on a rural property.
  You’re contributing to:
  
  - Regenerating native forest for future generations
  - Reviving natural wetlands that support biodiversity
  - Creating safe habitats for local wildlife
  - Re-balancing damaged areas so the land can thrive again
  - Supporting a rural community caring for its environment despite significant health limitations
  
  Your time here genuinely makes a difference — not just for us, but for the whenua itself.
  
  This is a great opportunity for someone who loves the outdoors, enjoys seeing tangible results, and wants to contribute to ecological restoration. We’re easygoing and respect both company and solitude — happy for a cuppa and a chat when energy allows, and equally happy to give you quiet time on your own.
  
  If you’re seeking calm, purpose, and connection — both with the land and your own well-being — we’d love to hear from you.

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  Types d'aide et opportunités d'apprendre

  Aide avec des éco-projets

  Jardinage

  Bricolage et construction

  S’occuper des animaux

  Cuisine/repas pour la famille

  Aide à la maison

  Entretien général
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  Centres d’intérêt

  

  Végétarien ou végan

  

  Dev. durable

  

  LGBT+

  

  Soin des plantes

  

  Jardinage

  

  Menuiserie

  

  Animaux

  

  Nature

  

  Animaux de compagnie
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  Objectifs de développement durable de l’ONU que cet hôte essaie d'atteindre

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  Qu'est-ce que c'est ?
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  Echange culturel et opportunités d'apprendre

  We are very happy to teach you about how we cook and live, or why. Emily has travelled a lot in her life. She did workaway, has lived in UK and France as well as doing a lot of voluntry work for the United Nations environmental and climate change youth organisations (UNEA and UNFCCC) before she came and settled back in Aotearoa (NZ).
  
  You'll also...
  - Have time to slow down and reconnect with nature
  - Learn about gardening, native plants, and sustainable property management
  - Experience life on a peaceful Northland property rich in wildlife and history
  - Space for personal reflection, creativity, or simply to breathe deeply away from city life
  
  Many of our past Workawayers describe their time here as grounding, peaceful, and healing.
  
  Location & Surroundings
  Old Coach Road Walkway – Just a few km away, perfect for scenic strolls.
  Opononi Beach & Sand Dunes (40 mins away) – Stunning views, boat tours, and a touch of history.
  Hokianga Harbour – Said to be the first landing place of the Māori in Aotearoa, with cultural experiences in Opononi.
  Waipoua Forest & Tāne Mahuta – Visit the largest Kauri tree and explore incredible native bush walks.
  Surf Beach (30 mins away) – A great spot to catch some waves.
  Kai Iwi Lakes (1hr 20mins away) – Crystal-clear freshwater lakes, perfect for swimming and kayaking.

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  Aide

  We’re looking for Workawayers who are physically fit, practical, and happy to get stuck in.
  If you enjoy variety and satisfaction from hands-on work, you’ll love it here.
  
  Tasks may include:
  - Gardening in our fruit forest and garden spaces
  - Helping in our small native plant nursery
  - Mowing and general property maintenance
  - Building an outdoor cat enclosure
  - Sorting and cleaning materials (wood, metal, general de-cluttering)
  - Small DIY or creative projects
  - Tree planting and care (seasonal)
  - Farm fence removal
  
  Every day brings something different, and we’re always open to matching tasks with your interests or skills.

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  Langues parlées

  Anglais: Courant
  Français: Débutant

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  Hébergement

  We have a 3 person tent with double height Queen Airbed (very comfy!) located close to the house (on a large deck) so it can have power and internet access. Or Bring your own self-contained accommodation (campervan, bus, caravan, etc.)
  Use of our house bathroom, kitchen, and laundry
  Internet available
  
  We share the space with two cats and a pet possum
  
  Cooking – Gas stove & oven (cooks faster than expected), plus an extra plug-in stovetop.
  Cell Signal – Limited at the house; good signal just down the road. Wifi calling is possible if phone is able
  Water – From a stream, so we provide large drinking bottles that we refill in Omapere.
  Laundry – Washer, dryer, and a covered clothesline on the deck.
  Deck & Views – Our large wrap-around deck is perfect for relaxing, eating, and soaking in the stunning scenery.

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  Autres infos...

  Rural Location
  - You must have your own vehicle
  - No public transport
  - Shops are a 20–40 minute drive away
  - Best suited for someone who enjoys solitude and nature
  
  Drinking Water
  
  We collect our drinking water from Omapere (40 minutes away).
  A good supply will be kept at home.
  
  Who We Welcome
  
  - Single sitters or couples
  - Responsible, reliable, animal-loving people
  - Those comfortable with rural living and quiet surroundings
  - People wanting a peaceful place to rest, work remotely, or recharge

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  Informations complémentaires

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    Accès Internet

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    Accès Internet limité

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    Nous avons des animaux

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    Nous sommes fumeurs

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    Familles bienvenues

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  Possibilité d’accueillir les digital nomads

  We utilize Star Link.

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  Espace pour garer des vans

  Loads of off-street parking for large vehicles.

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  Combien de volontaires pouvez-vous accueillir ?

  Plus de 2

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  Mes animaux

  Cleo

Sécurité du site

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