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Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
We offer a relaxed space for you to enjoy stunning wilderness, which many people miss on their travels as the road ends 12kms down from us (you can drive to us). There are mountains everywhere you look and we're right by Lake Whakatipu. We have lots of seasonal staff and casuals for you to buddy up and adventure with in the summer, winter is our quiet time, and plenty of down time for you.
We're a busy family with many businesses to run and John is now mayor of Queenstown. Where we can find time to socialise with staff we do so, however you are part of a business rather than a family home. We do expect a certain standard of work for your 17hrs a week, then the rest of the day is for you to explore or relax.
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About the experience in: Glenorchy, New Zealand
Germany
My experience and stay at the guest house was great. I gained valuable insight to almost every area to work avaidable and learned a lot while working in each area. The owners, Toni and John, are very kind and generous people and the community i worked and lived with was truly amazing - it made me feel like i never wanted to leave. I you are deciding to stay here be aware that this place is very remote and remember to stock up on grocery's before.
8 months ago
Toni replied
Isabell it has been such a pleasure having you here. Thank you for your review.
About the experience in: Glenorchy, New Zealand
United States
The guest house was a great introduction to New Zealand. I loved waking up to such a lovely view and forming a little family with my fellow volunteers. The surrounding area is gorgeous, but be aware that it is quite remote and there is little accessible by foot. Having a car will really help, but be prepared to use half a tank to get to Queenstown. I wish that there had been more opportunity for me to work paid hours, but I wasn't there during peak season. Overall, Toni and John made me feel very welcome and I really appreciate the time I got to spend at the guest house.
about 1 year ago
Toni replied
Thanks for the review Ollie, it was lovely to have you at Kinloch for a brief time. We are very subject to quiet times which mean that sometimes we don't have additional hours available for our casuals - more time to explore! You're right, it is quite helpful if people coming out have a car. Happy travels - enjoy your time in NZ
About the experience in: Glenorchy, New Zealand
United States
The guest house is a beautiful property, the owners are quite pleasant & offer a really nice staff house to live in. Don't forget Taka the house cat, she's the sweetest little kitty out there.
about 1 year ago
Toni replied
Thanks Tori, happy travels!
About the experience in: Glenorchy, New Zealand
Belgium
We had a great group of woofers but the owners were rough and their communications skills were bad. The tasks were not always clear
about 1 year ago
Toni replied
Hi Alex, sorry to hear that you felt like communication wasn't the greatest when you were with us. I'm not sure what you mean by 'rough' - perhaps lost in translation, we endeavour to create a welcoming environment for all our casual staff. I'll feed that back in the hope that we can improve.
About the experience in: Glenorchy, New Zealand
United States
I had a great experience helping out at the guest house. During my month-long stay, I helped with a mix of housekeeping, maintenance, painting, and moving jobs around the property. The work was varied and straightforward, and I enjoyed contributing to such a beautiful place. The team was welcoming and easy to work with, and the location itself is incredible—right on the edge of the lake with stunning views and access to great walks nearby. I appreciated the chance to learn new skills while also having time to explore the area during my time off. Thanks for having me!
over 1 year ago
Toni replied
It was a pleasure having you on the team Hayden! We loved your willingness to take on all sorts of jobs :) Happy travels