WWOOFing in New Zealand

So... Charlie and I are going to New Zealand in November and want to spend a week on a farm, but we just can't decide which one! So I am going to ask the people (you) what your opinion is. We've got a short list of 6 farms, which I will list below. Please post a comment and let me know which one you think we should go to. Tried to include all the info from their sites. Much appreciated guys!


Cleavedale Farms

Commercial dairy farm milking 250 Jersey cows with home orchard and garden. The farm operates at two locations. Dry stock are run on a 40ha farm adjacent to the Waihou River and Kaimai-Mamaku State Forest Park (trout fishing and hunting). The milking cows are farmed on a 80ha family farm bordering Matamata in the Waikato. We are central to many tourist locations including Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo and are only 1.5 hours from Auckland.

Isobel and Dick Worley

Te Aroha is at the south end of the Coromandel, beside the Kaimai range. Planted 200 young native trees and shrubs in half acre garden which is at the bottom of Mount Te Aroha. Need help looking after them. Also building steps, grass-cutting, weed-bashing, tree management, and household tasks. We are retired, English, and have wwoofed in NZ ourselves. Non-smokers only. Accomodation in separate converted jail with toilet and shower. Eat with us. Hot pools 3 mins on foot. First contact by email please

KandoiT

Great for Wwoofers who enjoy nature as we back onto the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve with its large Kauri, Rata and Rimu that tower over a canopy of tawa, kohekohe, hinau, rewarewa, mangeao, pukatea and manuka. (Some of the nicest bush in the Waikato). We are in the final stages of building NZ's 1st "Earthship" home (a house built from car tyres and other recycled materials). A remarkable piece of land, (1 hour south of Auckland) with excellent views overlooking the Waikato.

Nga Toka Mapuna

We try to live by environmental principles and are developing a sustainable system on our property. We welcome others who have skills and advice to offer and who can help us with out projects. We have a 8.5 acre block at Waitomo Caves with 2 goats and some chickens. We also have a bach at Kawhia beach.

Woofing activities include looking after animals, tending gardens and some small maintenance activities. Local regional activities include caving, blackwater rafting, rock climbing, fishing, hiking, nature trips. Its a beautiful region. Only 1 hour to the beach and 2 hours to the mountains.

Gorilla Hut

We have here what I hope is a great place for travellors to visit, experience and relax. We have a few projects on the go with organic veges over the summer and a fleet of vans/caravans being renovated, along with other maintenance and hands on jobs.

The Gorilla Hut get's it's name from my son and I's stuffed monkey collection. Set up in the 'Bar' it creates a great friendly environment for people to socialise. I spent over 8yrs travelling myself and the hope of this place was to offer likeminded people a base where on the otherside of the world they may still be able to call it home, as I had the opportunity to do in several countries. We also have a fleet of vans/campers etc which eventually will become a budget rental business, so if you're looking for a vehicle for short term or wanting some advice on purchasing vehicles please feel free to ask. At home I cook most every night (once for 24 people) and over the past year the only complaints we've had is that everyone ends up putting on weight. Many friendships and travel companions have been formed here and my son and I hope that one day we will meet almost everybody that has become part of our family once again. You can view past friends and family via 'the gorilla hut' on facebook. All the best, Damon and Gabriel

Inclover

Hi. I have a 240 cow dairy farm just north of matamata. (hobbiton) near the beautiful kaimai ranges. My location is close to hot pools, great waterfall and nice walkways. I live here with my dog Storm and cat. Accomadation is excellant and I enjoy great fresh food. I have a relaxed approach and think it is important that you enjoy your stay. Spacious rooms, mtb and spa are avail for your use. I am a keen sailor, diver and have a yacht near Waiheke. Jobs are varied and interesting. These may include milking, feeding calves.

I enjoy meeting overseas people and appreciate the help around the farm. . Hopefully you will learn new skills. 15 minutes away is the famous 'Hobbiton' from the Lord of the Rings

Hopefully you can now see why we're having so much trouble deciding! Let us know what you think, cheers guys! x