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If you’re dreaming of exploring beautiful landscapes, meeting friendly locals, and saving on travel costs, then housesitting in New Zealand might be the perfect option for you. Many travellers are choosing this way of travel because it allows them to live like a local, take care of someone’s home (and often pets), and enjoy free accommodation.

But if you’ve never done house sitting before, you might be wondering where’s the best place to start: the North Island or the South Island?

Let’s break down both options so you can decide what’s right for you, while also sharing helpful tips, real experiences, and things to keep in mind before you pack your bags.

What Is Housesitting and Why Do It in New Zealand?

Housesitting is when you stay in someone’s home while they’re away. In return, you may look after their pets, water plants, and keep the house safe and clean. You don’t pay rent, and the homeowners don’t pay you—it’s a fair exchange of trust and care.

Housesitting in New Zealand is very popular among both locals and travellers. Kiwis (New Zealanders) are generally kind and trusting, and many homeowners look for reliable people to care for their homes while they travel. For travellers, this is a wonderful way to explore the country slowly, on a budget, and with a deeper connection to the local way of life.

You’ll find hundreds of house sitting opportunities on trusted platforms like:

• Kiwi House Sitters
  
• House Sitters New Zealand
  
• MindMyHouse
  
• Nomador
  

Some listings last a few days, while others can be for weeks or even months.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

Before you begin housesitting in New Zealand, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Get Your Visa Ready

If you’re coming from another country, you will need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority). You can Submit NZeTA Online, and it’s usually processed quickly. Always check your NZeTA Visa Status before travelling. For more, visit the official site for NZeTA Visa Information.

2. Create a Great Profile

To get selected for a house sit, you need a friendly and honest profile. Add pictures (especially with pets), describe your experience with homes and animals, and ask previous homeowners for reviews or references. A strong profile builds trust.

3. Communicate Well

When applying for a house sit, write a kind and clear message. Ask about the pets’ needs, house rules, and location details. It’s okay to ask questions—it shows you care.

North Island vs South Island: Where Should You House Sit?

New Zealand has two main islands—the North Island and the South Island. Both are beautiful, but they offer very different experiences when it comes to house sitting.

North Island: Lively Cities and Warm Beaches

The North Island is where most of New Zealand’s population lives. Cities like Auckland and Wellington are located here, as well as smaller towns like Rotorua, Tauranga, and Whangārei.

What to Expect:

• More house sitting options due to a higher number of homeowners.
  
• Suburban homes with pets (usually dogs and cats).
  
• Shorter sits, especially during holidays and school breaks.
  
• Great for first-time house sitters.
  
• Easy access to shops, public transport, and social life.
  

Perfect for you if:
You enjoy being near the beach or city, want convenience, and prefer light pet care in more urban areas.

South Island: Mountains, Lakes, and Quiet Beauty

The South Island is less populated but known for its natural wonders—think snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and peaceful countryside.

What to Expect:

• Fewer but longer house sits.
  
• More rural and remote locations.
  
• Homes with both pets and sometimes farm animals (like chickens or sheep).
  
• Sitters often need their own car.
  
• More quiet time and connection with nature.
  

Perfect for you if:
You love outdoor adventures, hiking, or being away from crowds. It’s also great if you’re comfortable driving and being self-sufficient.

Real-Life Experiences from Sitters

Many travellers say housesitting in New Zealand changed how they travel.

One couple spent 8 months house sitting across both islands. In the North, they stayed in beachside homes and enjoyed city comforts. In the South, they lived on a farm in Nelson, caring for chickens, goats, and a border collie. They said, “It was like two different worlds in one country.”

A solo traveller shared her story of house sitting in Rotorua (North Island). She cared for two cats and got to visit thermal springs and Maori cultural sites in her free time.

Another traveller stayed in Queenstown (South Island), looking after a golden retriever. “It felt like I was living in a postcard,” he said. “I skied in the mornings and walked the dog in the afternoons.”

Final Tips Before You Begin

Here’s a helpful checklist for anyone interested in housesitting in New Zealand:

– Check your NZeTA Visa Status and Submit NZeTA Online early. Don’t wait until the last minute.
– Use trusted websites to find house sits.
– Build a strong, kind, and honest profile.
– Be clear about your availability and comfort level with animals.
– Ask questions and talk with the homeowners before confirming.
– Keep the home clean and follow all instructions.
– Leave a thank-you note or small gift. It builds good connections for future sits.

Final Thoughts

Housesitting in New Zealand is more than just free accommodation—it’s a way to truly connect with the country, people, and pets. Whether you choose the lively North Island with its sunny beaches and buzzing cities, or the peaceful South Island with its mountain views and quiet charm, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories.

Both islands offer something special. It’s not about which island is better—it’s about what kind of experience you’re looking for. And with careful planning, kindness, and curiosity, you can enjoy the very best of both worlds.

So pack your bags, update your profile, check your visa, and get ready. A whole new adventure in housesitting in New Zealand is waiting for you.