Work exchange at permaculture farm in Canterbury, New Zealand

About Blockhill:

Blockhill embodies the eco-lifestyle embraced by Olmec and Melisa Sinclair, along with their diverse array of animals and birds. Together, they cultivate a forest garden using natural methods and permaculture principles.

Their Objectives: Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Olmec and Melisa strive to inhabit and steward the land in a manner that fosters growth, resilience, and sustainability.

Key Goals:

Ecosystem Restoration and Increased Biodiversity
Preservation of Genetic Diversity
Creation of a Peaceful and Aesthetic Environment
Promotion of Resilience, Nourishment, and Health
Demonstration and Inspiration
Consideration of Economic Viability

Embracing Change: In response to pressing global challenges such as environmental degradation, overpopulation, peak oil, and climate change, Olmec and Melisa are committed to implementing permaculture principles and philosophies. Through these approaches, they aim to cultivate resilient living systems that prioritize environmental restoration, sustainable food production, and harmonious coexistence with nature.

Work Exchange Opportunity Canterbury, New Zealand: 

Open to: Motivated individuals or couples aged 18 – 39

Duration: By arrangement – 3 day minimum

What you get: We want your experience and memories of blockhill to be positive and educational.

Comfortable and funky private accommodation: Self contained modified shipping container house with enclosed outdoor kitchen
Private outdoor solar and wood heated shower, composting toilet and fire bath (not available over summer)
Educational experiences, discussions and dedicated learning activities such as flax weaving, bread making, plant identification, grafting…
Forage seasonal produce from the forest garden
Heaps of free time to explore, relax, enjoy and reconnect with the rhythms of nature
Friendly animal encounters (birds, pigs, ducks, chickens… maybe a possum)
Cooking: Wood fire with oven and cooktop (also for heating and hot water) and gas cooker

Food: You are responsible for all your own food. This means that you will need to bring food with you when you arrive.

What you give: We ask for your help with the common, day-to-day work of living in nature. This is usually 1.5 – 2 hours of work activities per day depending on the weather.

Activities may include:

Clearing paths and removing weeds
Making and improving gardens
Harvesting fruit and vegetables (mostly February – May)
Planting and pruning trees (mostly June – September)
Making firewood
Light construction

Explore further by visiting the website link below.

Contact Details

Exchange Type

• Home for Time

Regions

• New Zealand

Gallery

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Location