Welome to Otamatea Eco Village

Set up in 1997, Otamatea is made up of an intentional permaculture community living on the peninsula of the Kaipara region in Northland on the north island of NZ. The land which is about 250 acres in total is split up into 15 plots of land (5 acres) which are individually owned by the members of the eco village. There is also an additional 71hectares which is owned collectively and managed communually.

I was staying at 'The Far Side' with Marijke and Robert who are building there own unusual, slightly medieval themed house, complete with a 3 storey tower, lots of mosaic features and colourful pillars. There are also a few other buildings and barns on their plot including my little house for the week, extensive veggie patches and animal paddocks. The friendly pigs, chickens, cows, horses, cats and dog were all part of the family and contributed to the whole lifestyle and feel of the place.

One of the best things about the location of the house is the view from front side across the hills and surrounding water of the Tasman Sea. One of those views that you can just stare at for ages and never tire of, pretty good to look at while your eating your homemade muesli and sipping on a cup of fairtrade organic coffee :)