WWOOF New Zealand

Below is a form that one host gives to WWOOFers when they arrive. The intention is to make the expectations clear and to record a few details in case they are needed later. Some hosts may like to modify this to suit themselves, other hosts may well choose not use a form at all – it’s simply a case of having something that works for you. Another good idea that we have seen working well is to have a “scrap book” where WWOOFers can paste photos, write comments and reflections, sketch pictures etc. This makes a great archive – especially for those hosts who have had 400+ WWOOFers over a thirty year period!   – Andrew

Thank you for volunteering to assist with our projects at Wild Side Farms / Dovetail Trust- New Zealand. You are already aware that there is no mobile phone or T.V. coverage on this farm. As already explained to you, although there is a strong horse-related business on the farm, the work you have volunteered for is connected with the ongoing preservation and conservation of the farm and the equestrian facility. Volunteers/wwoofers may observe the unique activities with the horses during their spare time and the host is prepared to enlighten volunteers/wwoofers about the work with the horses during mealtimes.

Important additional safety note on the above
Many of the horses undergoing work are either very young horses being introduced to their first weeks of handling and training or psychologically damaged horses that are being re-adjusted. If you are approaching the area where a horse is being handled or worked please do so quietly. Sudden unexpected appearances or even movements can cause a horse to become unduly worried and react in a manner that can put the handler who is working with the horse at risk. This is especially the case if the person working with the horse has not seen you approach. When watching the work please keep still and watch quietly. Make notes of any questions you wish to ask and please do not interrupt the concentration of the person working with horse during the time that the person is working with the horse. This is very important for the success of every lesson that takes place with the horse. Your co-operation in this matter is anticipated and appreciated. Thank you.

The following points are an assurance for all parties that there are no misunderstandings during your stay here and that we can live and work together in unity.

1. Volunteers/wwoofers are required to work for four to five hours each day
2.At times, where to complete a job, a volunteer/ wwoofer works longer than four hours, that person may then deduct the extra time spent from the following day’s work
3.In exchange for this work, volunteers/wwoofers will be provided with food. [Self serve breakfast, lunch of soup or sandwiches or similar and a hot evening meal
4.Food provided is 95% organic.
5.Volunteers/wwoofers are also given accommodation either in the host house, the sleep-out area or the cabin
6.Generally, volunteers and wwoofers are treated as family
7.Fresh fruit and biscuits along with tea and coffee are available throughout the day. Other larder and refrigerated provisions are part of the overall housekeeping budget and should not be used without specific prior arrangement with the host
8.Volunteers/wwoofers are welcome to use and watch any of the DVD and video collection which must be kept tidy and dutifully returned to their respective places
9.Volunteers/Woofers are expected to share in the general household duties of home maintenance and clearing up of dishes after meals etc. and are expected to strip their beds and launder their sheets before they leave
10.It is not possible to offer internet use to volunteers/wwoofers on the business computer. There is an internet facility at the local store in the village that provides an internet service
11.Volunteers/wwoofers are asked not to interact, fuss, feed or fiddle with any of the horses, some of which can be dangerous
12. By arrangement, it may be possible for a volunteer/wwoofer toride one of the older horses but this is not an automatic rightand doing so does not negate no.11
13.At least one day’s notice is required if a volunteer/wwooferdecides to leave prior to the agreed period of time
14. Volunteers/wwoofers must have read and have had explained tothem the ‘Hazards’ on the farm listed in the Hazard Manual
15. Volunteers/wwoofers must wear suitable working footwear and clothing appropriate for the allocated work. [approved by host]
16. Any volunteer/wwoofer found to be taking illegal drugs or found drunk and disorderly whilst on the premises will be expected to leave the property immediately
17. Any volunteer/wwoofer who disregards safety instructions or who, by their actions, refuses to comply with any of the stated conditions, will be asked to leave the premises
18. Volunteers/wwoofers must provide the details requested and sign the attached form:

Arrival date…………………………………

Duration of stay……………………………………………………….

Date of last Tetanus booster……………………………………..

I have read the hazard manual and been shown the hazards on the farm. I have had these explained to me and also understand the conditions of my voluntary work at Wild Side Farms / Dovetail Trust, New Zealand explained in this document. I accept that all possible measures have been taken to ensure my safety during my visit. I agree not to interfere with any of the horses without specific permission and understand that I must not attempt to use any of the farm machinery. I understand that if I am to use the lawnmower, I must follow the operating instructions that will be explained to me prior to its use and that I must wear ear defenders, long trousers and eye protection whilst using this machine.I understand that I must immediately report any accident or incident and I have been informed of where to find the first aid kit and the fire extinguishers.I am aware that all areas of the farm are no smoking areasSigned ……………………………………………………………………………Print name ……………………….. Date……………………………………

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