Te Nikau Retreat

If you volunteer with us, you will fall in love with the West Coast. The unique opportunity to live 10 minutes from one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand is unmatched - and this is at zero cost to you! The light work load at our retreat leaves the majority of your time with us to be yours to do with as you please. We hope you will adventure with us!

Our staff is excited to welcome friendly and excited travelers! As much as you want to interact with us, we'll hang out with you. There are so many places to explore and we know all of the secret spots and have connections to most places you would want to explore in the area.

Top Host
This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.

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Reviews

5.0
(94 reviews)94

Staff & Host

5.0

Hours & Tasks

5.0

Hostel

5.0

Learning & Fun

5.0
About the experience in: Punakaiki, New Zealand

Canada

5

Everyone here is so friendly! The work is easy and only takes about 30 minutes to an hour. It is remote but I found it to be peaceful. There are so amazing walks and the views are incredible!

about 1 month ago

About the experience in: Punakaiki, New Zealand

Germany

5

My time at the lodge was wonderful! I was there during the winter season, which meant there were hardly any guests and therefore very little work. As a result, it was very peaceful and relaxing, and I had almost the entire day off. Everyone was lovely, and the accommodation was very cozy in the evenings with a fireplace. I would recommend this project to anyone who enjoys being in nature and appreciates the tranquility of the rainforest!

about 2 months ago

About the experience in: Punakaiki, New Zealand

Canada

5

My time in Punakaiki was great! Work was as expected, wasn't so busy as it is low season but that left me with lots of free time to enjoy the area. James and Andrea were great hosts, easy to talk and get along with. The area itself is super quiet and in the middle of nature, I probably heard more birds than people, which I enjoyed. The beach and sunset spot is a short walk away too. Overall really enjoyable experience and I hope to return in high season!

2 months ago

About the experience in: Punakaiki, New Zealand

United States

5

I had a great time in Punakaiki! James and Andrea are super welcoming and even took us on little walks and adventures some of the days! The beach is just a 5 minute walk and feels almost private during the winter months because the town is super quiet. If you do come in winter, be prepared for slower and quieter days but if you need a good reset or chill place to stay it’s perfect! The lodge is super cute and we spent most of our time cooking, playing cards, watching movies, and reading. The work is more than fair and super easy during winter. Thanks for everything James and Andrea!

3 months ago

About the experience in: Punakaiki, New Zealand

Australia

5

We had an amazing time at Te Nikau. The work was extremely chill, since it was quiet season. The nature is incredible in Punakaiki. Would definitely recommend having a vehicle as it did feel quite isolated but we cooked and played monopoly, walked to the pub etc. It was a home away from home. Thanks James and Andrea.

4 months ago


Perfect for you if you're looking for

Business

Contact with nature

Beach

Mountain

Wilderness

Adventure Sports