If you’re tired of grey England and the hectic 9 to 5 rat race, then why not switch it all to work on a remote island on the other side of the world? Workaway is currently advertising a job for someone to help keep an older couple with their home and garden on the stunning Great Barrier Island in New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf.
In exchange for a room you would work three hours a day helping keep the garden clear, chopping firewood, feeding chickens and helping out on building projects. The listing reads: “There is a beautiful beach five minutes walk away. Surfing, swimming, fishing, stargazing and bushwalks are some of the most popular things to do. We hope that you can entertain yourselves and show some initiative when given work to do.”
Great Barrier Island is a stunning part of the world – it’s small but mighty with incredible rainforests, white sweeping beaches with estuaries and incredible surfing opportunities as well as a friendly community of locals and tourists year round.
The listing reads: “We live on a remote island, generate our own power and live in a very beautiful place. We mainly attract people who want to embrace nature and get away from the big cities for a while.
“Most people who are here enjoy their stay and go away with new experiences. It is a friendly Island where it is easy to hitch around if you do not have a car.”
Although the listing is in exchange for board, if you have tradesman skills, there is an opportunity for paid work.
People who have stayed at the property have raved about not only how beautiful it is, but the kindness of the hosts Robyn and Malcolm.
One woman wrote: “I was delighted to stay with Robyn and Malcolm for 9 days to help with the laundry and feed the ducks and chickens. The place was very pleasant with a lush garden.
“And my hosts were the kindest. I’m blessed to have been able to stay here, while still being able to enjoy the island.”
Another said they were “heartbroken” to have to leave at the end of their stay.
“If switching your 9-5 to work on the island sounds like your dream, you can view the job listing here. Just make sure you have the right visas to work and travel in New Zealand.