New Zealand Agricultural Programs

In a land where sheep outnumber the people that raise them, New Zealand’s agricultural industry is always looking for helpers. These programs offer volunteers an exchange of labor for room and board in a number of different rural settings throughout the country. Programs vary widely depending on the region and season, but you should be able to find anything from kiwi picking to sheep shearing. For other agricultural opportunities, see Working.

Farm Helpers in New Zealand, 31 Moerangi St., Palmerston North 4410 (☎06 355 0448; www.fhinz.co.nz). Publishes a booklet (NZ$25) with information on farms and families looking for those who will work in exchange for free room and board.
Permaculture in New Zealand (www.permaculture.org.nz) organizes native plantings and runs courses in the principles of permaculture—using natural, renewable resources to enrich local ecosystems. Courses and activities rotate frequently.
Willing Workers on Organic Farms (WWOOF), P.O. Box 1172, Nelson 7040 (☎03 544 9890; www.wwoof.co.nz). works to connect farmers and volunteers. With membership, WWOOF distributes a list of over 1000 farmers who offer room and board in exchange for 4-6hr. of work per day. Membership NZ$40, from overseas NZ$45. Couples discounts available.

More Volunteering in New Zealand

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