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Bernard & Taju

Your tidy Pet & Home Guardians

Picture of House Sitter, House Minder and Pet Sitter at Kiwi House Sitters, New Zealand. User Your tidy Pet & Home Guardians
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About us

groupCouple

81, Retired

58, Online Student

Bernie (Kiwi) & Taju (Giwi, originally from Germany), are tidy and reliable couple enjoying to care for pets, homes, and gardens. We live in Taupo and mainly do housesits around the North Island.

favoriteWhy we love house sitting

We love meeting new pets and enjoy exploring the neighborhood of your home.

We like caring for your pets, as well as keeping and leaving your property clean and tidy. If you wish, we can send you regular updates. With us, you will be in caring hands and have more time to relax while on holiday.

Bernie has some handyman skills for small repairs and Taju keeps the house clean and tidy. We are double-vaccinated and boostered, non-smokers that stay fit with some mountain biking and nature walks. Bernie is retired and Taju studies online, we would normally spend half of ... Read moreWe like caring for your pets, as well as keeping and leaving your property clean and tidy. If you wish, we can send you regular updates. With us, you will be in caring hands and have more time to relax while on holiday.

Bernie has some handyman skills for small repairs and Taju keeps the house clean and tidy. We are double-vaccinated and boostered, non-smokers that stay fit with some mountain biking and nature walks. Bernie is retired and Taju studies online, we would normally spend half of the day and the evenings quietly at home.

We respect your belongings and are happy to share some of our time with your furry friends.

We generally prefer housesits for a duration of 5-14 days, max 3-4 hours drive from Taupo. Please share some photos of your pets and home, if you approach us for a sit.

We look forward to finding out, what we can do for you.

For communication we use Whatsapp, Messenger and occasionally Zoom. Usually we schedule the first meeting online. If possible, we make arrangements to meet you in person, before the housesit starts.

Kind regards
Bernie & Taju

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Pet care

For your peace of mind, we can provide you with pet experience and references:

Between January 2019 and August 2020, we completed five housesits for family & friends, including caring for a dog, a rabbit & several cats. In September 2020 we joined this website and since have enjoyed many more ... Read moreFor your peace of mind, we can provide you with pet experience and references:

Between January 2019 and August 2020, we completed five housesits for family & friends, including caring for a dog, a rabbit & several cats. In September 2020 we joined this website and since have enjoyed many more wonderful housesit experiences.

During the last years of doing housesits we have expanded our pet knowledge in caring for chickens, cocatiels, geckos, fish, sheep and even a goat. All these experiences have enriched our lives with joy.

Therefore, we would like to care for more pets and homes, and hope to find out what we can do for you.

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petsWilling to care for these pets

DogsDogs
CatsCats
FishFish
BirdsBirds
Rabbits/Guinea PigsRabbits/Guinea Pigs
Chickens/Ducks/GeeseChickens/Ducks/Geese
ReptilesReptiles
NoneNone

Trust

Platinum member36 months+
reviews5 star reviews

Availability

eventNext 12 months

Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul

eventCurrent bookings

2026: 6-14 Aug | 4-9 Sep | 27 Oct - 6 Nov

event_busyAlso Unavailable

2026: 15 Sep - 5 Oct

chairOn a house-sit right now

Preferences

scheduleHouse sit duration

0 - 1 week, 1 - 2 weeks

where_to_votePreferred locations

North Island: Auckland (Auckland - Central, Great Barrier Island, North Shore City, Waiheke Island, Waitakere), Bay of Plenty (Rotorua, Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty, Whakatane), Hawke's Bay (Hastings, Napier), Manawatū-Whanganui (Ruapehu, Whanganui), Northland (Whangarei), Taranaki (New Plymouth), Waikato (Hamilton, Hauraki, Thames-Coromandel, Waipa), Wairarapa (Masterton), Wellington (Kapiti Coast, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Wellington)  

travelTravel plans

Generally, we prefer housesits around the North Island of a length between 5 days and maximum 2 weeks.

Reviews (24)

I wish I could give Taju and Bernie a million star rating - 5 stars just doesn’t seem adequate! They took such beautiful care of our dog and our home, and sent regular photos and updates which we loved getting whilst on holiday. Not only that, they also provided us with the most excellent travel advice around where we were going (and saved us from a couple of tourist traps). We feel very privileged that they answered our ad and would thoroughly recommend them.
Bernard & Taju are very respectful people, immaculate in the home, and great communicators. We were able to relax nicely on our holiday knowing the dogs were in great hands. Molly and Bob were spoilt with lots of outings too. We have no hesitation at all in referring them to others needing sitters.
Taju and Bernard were great, friendly, kind people. They arrived and met my cats who took to them right away. I felt very relieved and happy when I drove off leaving my fur babies and my home in their hands. They kept me up to date with texts and photos all the time, for which I was grateful and I could see my cats were happy as with Taju and Bernard. They left my home immaculate, I could not fault this lovely couple, they will always be welcome back at my home to look after my fur babies, ... MoreTaju and Bernard were great, friendly, kind people. They arrived and met my cats who took to them right away. I felt very relieved and happy when I drove off leaving my fur babies and my home in their hands. They kept me up to date with texts and photos all the time, for which I was grateful and I could see my cats were happy as with Taju and Bernard. They left my home immaculate, I could not fault this lovely couple, they will always be welcome back at my home to look after my fur babies, thanks Taju and Bernard I really appreciated meeting you and having you stay here. All the best. Sonia

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Bernard and Taju looked after our place including our energetic dog and 2 cats for two weeks. They communicated well, sent us photos throughout the time and left the house immaculate. It was so lovely coming home to warm tidy home and very happy animals. I would highly recommend them.
This was my first time using kiwi house sitters and Bernard and Taju were the best. They took great care of our dog and our house. Their communication was excellent too. I would highly recommend them:)
Taju and Bernard have been amazing sitters looking after our home and slightly high maintenance burm boys. Daily communication & updates with loads of affection for the boys as hoped. Felt completely comfortable having them in our home while we were overseas, despite never meeting in person. Came home to an immaculate house and very contented boys. I would happily have them sit for us again and highly recommend them to others. Thanks so much for taking such good care of Leo & Louie!
The best house sitters we could have wished for. Bernie and Taju took great care of our property and our pets. We got consistent communication with photos of our pets being well loved and looked after. We returned to an immcaulately clean and tidy house (not to mention the block of chocolate!). We cant wait to have them return.
We met up with Bernard and Taju a couple months prior, this is a good way to break the formality and put minds at ease.. While away they kept us informed which was nice. We came home to an immaculate clean home, thank you! We highly recommend Bernard and Taju as they are a kind, thoughtful, trustworthy and communicative couple. Once a again a very heartfelt thank you to you both.
Thank you very much for your lovely review and generosity. We had a great time in your beautiful home.
Thank you so much Taju & Bernard for taking such good care of Frankie while we were away. Sadly the weather wasn't very nice at all but you still committed to daily walks with her and sent us gorgeous pictures of her enjoying the wild Wellington weather, along with photos of her playing games at home and relaxing. We all loved the video that you sent us at the end of your stay of your time with her in Wellington. We also really appreciate the house being left immaculate and the card and ... MoreThank you so much Taju & Bernard for taking such good care of Frankie while we were away. Sadly the weather wasn't very nice at all but you still committed to daily walks with her and sent us gorgeous pictures of her enjoying the wild Wellington weather, along with photos of her playing games at home and relaxing. We all loved the video that you sent us at the end of your stay of your time with her in Wellington. We also really appreciate the house being left immaculate and the card and treats that you left us. You are fantastic dog and house sitters - definitely a 10 out of 10!! Thank you again, and hopefully we will see you back here again :-)

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Thank you very much for having us in your lovely home with the cutest dog in the world. We loved the walks along the wild coast in even wilder weather and hope to be back for more... :-))))
Lovely couple - our first experience using house sitters - house was beautifully cleaned on our return - they were in touch with us most days while we were away with photos of our baby(dog) which made our holiday stress free knowing she was happy and our home was secure- would definitely recommend taju and Bernard and would use them again ❤️
Bernard and Taju were amazing house sitters. Excellent communication throughout the sit. Sent photos of our cat and gave updates of how she was settling in with them. Left the house immaculately clean and washed our towels before they left.
Loved having Bernard & Taju cat sit while we were away on holiday. The communication was excellent all the way from introduction, updates to personal note when they left. House and Garden where looked after and the two cats where very well looked after and happy too.  Bernard & Taju also did a great job of cleaning and it was such a pleasure to return to a clean home. Thank you two.
Thanks Andy & Mirjam for your trust and letting us stay in your place. Sure, Mia and Finn are happy to have their cats back. All the best and thank you for your generosity.
Bernard and Tjou are a lovely couple that looked after our house and dogs perfectly. Easy to communicate with and reliable, honest and caring. We would love to have them back again. I think we have also made some new friends.
Thank you Carole for the lovely opportunity to look after your wonderful dogs and beautiful house. We hope to be back and look forward to reconnect with you.
Bernard and Taju were wonderful housesitters. We arrived home to a beautifully clean and tidy house and, most importantly, happy dogs. We would have them back any time!
Thank you Sharon for making our stay as comfortable as possible and your dogs were cute and happy, a pleasure to look after. We hope to be back for another stay. All the best!
Bernard and Taju were the most wonderful house sitters you could possibly have! When they house sat for us it was when a lot of rain was forecast to hit Auckland. The day after their arrival the rain started and Auckland's worst flooding on record hit. Throughout it all they made sure the animals were happy and went out several times during the torrential rain to clear the blocked drains from the debris. Our entire suburb lost water for the rest of their stay but they kept up ... MoreBernard and Taju were the most wonderful house sitters you could possibly have! When they house sat for us it was when a lot of rain was forecast to hit Auckland. The day after their arrival the rain started and Auckland's worst flooding on record hit. Throughout it all they made sure the animals were happy and went out several times during the torrential rain to clear the blocked drains from the debris. Our entire suburb lost water for the rest of their stay but they kept up communication with us which was really reassuring. They sent photos of the pets and place throughout. They remained laidback and cheerful and nothing was ever an issue. The pets were happy and they left the place absolutely spotless, despite the difficult circumstances. They're welcome back anytime.

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Thank you very much for your kindness and great communication. We were very lucky to housesit for you and enjoyed your lovely pets and your care. All the best for you and your family. Cheers Bernard and Taju
Bernard and Taju were our housesitters for a week they were awesome to deal with. We have an old unsociable cat but they were able to make friends with him.They even sent us photos and updates on how he was getting on.I would definately recommend them as the communication was great and they left our house immaculate.It"s nice to go away and not stress about your pets and house.
Thank you Jeanette for the opportunity to housesit at short notice and being able to look after Tally and your lovely property. He was very easy to care for. Also thank you for letting us use some of your veggies from the garden. All the best and we appreciate your nice review.
Fantastic House sitters. Gizmo cat and gecko's very well taken care of. Great communication which Included vet visit for cat while we were away. Came home to happy relaxed pet. Clean tidy house and all plants taken care of. Highly recommend them.
Welcome home and thank you very much, Anne & Grant, for letting us stay in your lovely home with your amazing pets. We enjoyed every minute of it and already miss Gizmo, he seem to think we are fellow humans. What a wonderful housesit.
Bernie and Taju were great house sitters. Our recent trip away was the first time we have used this site, and the first time we have ever left our pets with total strangers. B&T made the whole process really easy. We instantly felt a good rapport and trust with them. They were clean and tidy and left our house in great condition, and they were amazing with our (quite highly strung) little terrier and our loud, miaowy cat. We would definitely recommend Bernard and Taju and definitely have them ... MoreBernie and Taju were great house sitters. Our recent trip away was the first time we have used this site, and the first time we have ever left our pets with total strangers. B&T made the whole process really easy. We instantly felt a good rapport and trust with them. They were clean and tidy and left our house in great condition, and they were amazing with our (quite highly strung) little terrier and our loud, miaowy cat. We would definitely recommend Bernard and Taju and definitely have them back in our house again. Thanks guys!

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Thank you Zoe and Ronnie for trusting us with your cute Dottie and funny Albert. We had a great time in French Bay and enjoyed our stay your arty house.
Taju & Bernard we're just fabulous. Great communication both before and during their stay. House was left spotlessly clean and animals very happy. They had to deal with an issue with one of our animals which we appreciated very much. Totally trustworthy and respectful, I would trust them with our home anytime. Thanks so much both of you
Thank you for your trust in choosing us to look after your lovely dogs, the cat, the chickens and sheep! We enjoyed being at your peaceful property and keeping you updated about your pets well-being. All the best for you and your family.
They were perfect. Left the place cleaner than it started and our dogs went into a depression when they figured out they had left and we were back. Five star all the way.
Thanks so much for your trust. Beautiful place to be at and lovely dogs to care for. We miss the two cute Noodles.
It was wonderful to have Bernard and Taju in our home taking such great care if our dogs and our home. When we got home the dogs were calm and settled and our house immaculate. Our grateful thanks.
Lovely home, great location, well behaved and adorable dogs, a pleasure to look after them. Thank you Linda & Gary to trust us to look after Molly & Cody.
Lovely to come home to a spotless, tidy house. Bernard and Taju did a great job caring for our chickens and birds. Highly recommended.
Thank you for the opportunity to look after all these different kinds of birds. We enjoyed staying in your spacious place.
Bernard and Taju put us at ease from the minute we met them. They are warm, friendly people - clear communicators and easy to talk to. They took extra special care of our small Pomeranian chihuaha Coco as it was the first time we had left her with others. I felt we built a trusting relationship in a short time I would highly recommend them.
Dear Lesley, Matt & Coco! Thank you so much for the lovely review and the wonderful opportunity to meet you all. It was a pleasure to look after Coco and your property. Look forward to seeing you all again! Kind regards Bernard and Taju
We couldn't have asked for better sitters for our two indoor Cornish Rex cats over the Christmas & NY break! Bernard & Taju looked after them as if they were their own and we got regular photos and updates on what our babies were up to. This helped so much as we miss them dearly when we are away. They mowed the lawns and left the house cleaner that they found it which was a lovely surprise to come home to! Would recommend them 110% and would use them again in a heartbeat. Thank you Bernard & ... MoreWe couldn't have asked for better sitters for our two indoor Cornish Rex cats over the Christmas & NY break! Bernard & Taju looked after them as if they were their own and we got regular photos and updates on what our babies were up to. This helped so much as we miss them dearly when we are away. They mowed the lawns and left the house cleaner that they found it which was a lovely surprise to come home to! Would recommend them 110% and would use them again in a heartbeat. Thank you Bernard & Taju for taking such great care of Evie, Archie and our house :)

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Thank you Zoe & Tobi for your trust. We love Evie & Archie and miss them a lot.

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With a house sitter looking after your pets, house and garden - you can really relax. Happy days.

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