personHouse sitter

Nikki

Ex farmer

Picture of House Sitter, House Minder and Pet Sitter at Kiwi House Sitters, New Zealand. User Ex farmer

About me

personSolo

61, Semi-retired

As an ex-farmer, I'm confident with all your precious animals and your property. Now semi-retired, I like to spend summers hiking in South Island where I'm also keen for some pet/animal time.

favoriteWhy I love house sitting

I'm new to pet and house sitting, having completed just one for friends, but very keen to do more. I'd rather experience life as a 'local' while helping someone else out too. It seems a win: win situation. The odd hill or mountain to walk up, would be an added bonus to having pet time.

Currently living in North Island, I am selling up for life on the road! I will be spending summer and autumn from January onwards in South Island mainly hiking and often off the beaten track, which I love.
I'm keen to experience different places and situations as part of life's adventure. I have plenty of varied animal experience, mentioned below.
I'm very independent, practical, down to earth and happy with my own and some animal company!

Pet care

I grew up with dogs, cats, chickens, geese, ponies/horses. I especially love larger dogs who want to go for walks!

petsWilling to care for these pets

DogsDogs
CatsCats
FishFish
BirdsBirds
Rabbits/Guinea PigsRabbits/Guinea Pigs
Chickens/Ducks/GeeseChickens/Ducks/Geese
Farm AnimalsFarm Animals
HorsesHorses
ReptilesReptiles

agricultureFarm experience

I farmed for 20 years in NZ, Ireland, UK and Canada. This was mainly dairy farming with some beef, calf rearing and a little sheep experience. I'm confident with animals, farm machinery and the likes of water pumps and any challenges that may occur.

Trust

Availability

eventNext 12 months

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

event_busyUnavailable

2026: 7-14 Aug

Preferences

scheduleHouse sit duration

0 - 1 week, 1 - 2 weeks, 2 - 4 weeks

where_to_votePreferred locations

Anywhere in New Zealand

travelTravel plans

Prior to January I will be in North Island as sadly, my new van is not ready until mid-January (2027), after which I will head to South Island.

rv_hookupHas Caravan/Motorhome

Garden Maintenance

Green garden!

Make sure the garden and pot plants are thriving when you get back - get a house sitter.