Te Popo Gardens Rural Retreat

We take pleasure in welcoming you to a paradise, a peaceful setting on 34 acres of woodlands where nature never sleeps;, located 15 minutes out of Stratford . Every season has its own story to tell and when night welcomes the day, you step into a private little paradise of beautiful plants, flowers and trees. The huge variety of birds in song invite you to relax, and let Mother Nature work her magic on your tired soul. Our woodland picnic spots are perfect for a little escape from the daily stress and our beautiful gardens are the perfect wedding venue for the nature lover.

Les and I are married for 45 years. We relocated to New Zealand in 2006 from South Africa. We have got one son, which is still living in South Africa. We purchased Te Popo gardens in 2016, and are always busy building it up and add a bit of African taste to the property. We currently have 39 life size African animals statues on the property.

Top Host
This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.

Reviews

4.5
(13 reviews)13

Staff & Host

4.5

Hours & Tasks

4.5

Hostel

5.0

Learning & Fun

4.5

Germany

5

I really enjoyed my stay here. Amanda and Les were welcoming, helpful, and made sure everything was comfortable. The place was clean, well-maintained, and had everything I needed. I would definitely recommend this experience to other travelers!

19 days ago

Chile

5

If you habe the chance to go and help Amanda and Les, just do it. The place is incredible, massive space fill with nature. The hosts are the most caring and welcoming humans you could meet in the Taranaki region. Te Popo gardens is an amazing place, ridiculously beautiful and peaceful. You will really feel at home, but improved. Super mega tasty food made with love everyday. Nourishing conversations and a grate chance to immerse in nature. Thank you so much!!!! I will always remember my time there πŸ’–πŸ’–πŸ˜˜

about 2 months ago


Amanda replied

Thank you Franco for giving 110% time and commitment. It was truly an honor to have you. You are open, friendly and a extremely good self motivator. You took ownership and pride in everything you have done. Thank you for leaving the room clean and tidy. Take care of yourself and we hope to see you again.

Denmark

1

My partner and I stayed here for 8 days before we left, we were supposed to stay for 2 weeks.

Some of the things that made us leave:
-Not having a private room where you could close a door or get ANY privacy.
-We had to ask for our fridge to be filled.
-We did a lot of hard physical work, and all we got was an ungrateful response.
-They talked down to and badly about us multiple times.
-Work hours were not as agreed upon. Took advantage of us.

We seriously don’t recommend this stay. Not worth it. We have reported them.

4 months ago


Amanda replied

Freya, from all the volunteers we had, you surely had the short straw. My dear may you have a very peaceful and happy life. All of the best for your future.

United States

5

I had a wonderful time at Te Popo Gardens! Amanda and Les are kind and welcoming hosts. Their food is delicious and the accommodation is very comfortable. I've felt right at home here. The surrounding area is beautiful and a great place to connect with nature. The work is always reasonable and not difficult. I highly recommend this opportunity!

5 months ago


Amanda replied

Abby fit is with our family. She is kind and respectful. She completed every task with the greatest satisfaction. Abby is pro active and take pride in everything she does. I can recommend Abby, she will be welcomed back with open arms.

Germany

5

I had an amazing time at the popos Guesthouse!
Amanda and Less are very welcoming and they really adhere to the agreement made on the app (working hours,food, accomondation, etc.). The two of them also try to include you in their private life for exmaple with eating together or taking you with them to a trip to the city.

6 months ago


Perfect for you if you're looking for

Business

Contact with nature

Rural

Wilderness

Family