We are looking for exchangers/housesitters for June/July 2019 while we are away. Please get in touch!

Modern eco strawbale home set in the peaceful countryside just a 20 minute drive from Christchurch and the Christchurch International Airport. We built this house ourselves and put everything into it that we love- it is a warm, inviting space that is warm in winter and cool in summer due to the thick straw walls and positioning for sun. Lime and earth plaster walls give the house character, as does the recycled hardwood beams and poles and curved walls. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms in our 240m2 house, including a restored claw-foot bath.

Outside there are "eco" luxuries as well- a woodburning sauna house that is fashioned from the traditional Finnish sauna. It is a peaceful experience to sit outside and watch all of the animals and birdlife while cooling down from the sauna.

We have lots of animals to entertain both children and adults. We breed kunekune pigs, the New Zealand native domesticated pig (similar to a potbelly pig). Our four pigs are real characters and enjoy attention and food! We have 20+ sheep, and lambs during winter and spring, which are happy to do their own thing. Three chickens will provide you with fresh eggs. And our lovely cat, Amelie, will give you lots of affection after she gets to know you. We also have many birds that visit our property, both native pukekos as well as quail, pheasants and the occasional blue heron.

Many sightseeing activities are within a few hour's drive of our house, from the ocean to the mountains. Check out http://www.christchurchnz.com/. Highlights are the seaside village of Akaroa, the Arthurs Pass National Park (alpine mountains), Hanmer Springs Thermal Resort, Mt Hutt Skifield, lots of walks and things to do in Christchurch. We can give you personal recommendations depending on your interests.