When travelers think of New Zealand, images of rolling green hills, snow-capped mountains, and lush countryside often come to mind. While the cities have their charm, it’s the rural heart of Aotearoa that captures something deeper — a sense of connection, simplicity, and adventure. That’s why farmstays have become one of the most popular and rewarding ways to experience life in New Zealand.

A True Slice of Kiwi Life

A farmstay isn’t just accommodation — it’s an experience. Participants live and work alongside local farming families, helping with everything from feeding animals and planting vegetables to mucking out stables and collecting eggs. In return, they’re welcomed into the home, share meals with the family, and become part of the day-to-day rhythm of rural life.

This immersive experience gives visitors the chance to see the real New Zealand, far from tourist crowds. You’ll wake to the sound of nature instead of traffic and spend your days surrounded by stunning landscapes that change with the seasons.

A Culture of Hospitality

New Zealanders, or “Kiwis,” are known for their friendly, laid-back attitude — and that’s especially true in the countryside. Many farm hosts treat participants like extended family. Whether it’s sharing stories over dinner, teaching new skills, or heading out for a spontaneous fishing trip, the bonds formed often last long after the farmstay ends.

This strong sense of hospitality makes New Zealand one of the safest and most enjoyable places to take part in an international exchange or gap year experience.

A Global Favourite for Working Holiday Makers

With New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa programs open to dozens of countries, farmstays are a perfect fit for young and older travelers looking for meaningful experiences. It’s an affordable way to live in New Zealand and you will leave with a rich appreciation for the hard work that goes into farming, along with a deep understanding of the culture.

The Bonus of Horses

A huge draw for many is the opportunity to work closely with horses and learn about the horse life in another country. While not every horse farm placement involves horse riding, many do — and participants often help with grooming, feeding, lunging, or even exercising the horses, depending on skill level.

A Break from the Digital World

In an age of screens and schedules, many find farmstays to be a digital detox. With limited Wi-Fi in some rural areas, participants reconnect with nature and real-life conversations. Many describe their time on the farm as grounding, healing, and life-changing.

Ready to Experience It for Yourself?

At Internex Pacific, we’ve been placing international visitors on farms throughout New Zealand for over 15 years. Our farmstay program offers the chance to live authentically, work meaningfully, and explore New Zealand in a way that most tourists never do.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, looking to build resilience, or simply want to live differently for a while — a farmstay might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Learn more about Farmstay New Zealand and Apply now 

Thinking about taking a Gap year and working abroad? Let our team help organise your overseas experience and soon you could be living and working in Australia, Canada or New Zealand….  and we cant wait to get you started!