Wilderland is a unique centre of learning: a sustainable-living project with a focus on inner and outer education, staffed by a group of resident-volunteers living on an organic farm.
Since its birth in 1964, Wilderland has become one of New Zealand’s most prominent sustainable communities. An ever-evolving resident-group maintains the land and holds the space for hundreds of volunteers from around the world to come and learn together every year.
Wilderland takes a holistic perspective. All aspects of living off the land, from the soil right through to the facebook page, are part of an integrated system of full self-sufficiency. All aspects are aimed towards a future of true low-impact living, true self-reliance, and real local economy.
We are a work in progress. Since the beginning, volunteers have had the chance to come and be part of developing our unique model, learning together as we go. After more than 50 years, we have a lot to share, and focus on sharing it with as many people as possible.
We are especially interested in forming partnerships with educational institutions around the world who would like to send groups of students here, for an in-depth holistic sustainability experience. Check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eStPg1GdQZs to see an inspiring example of one such partnership, and get in touch if you would like to know more.
To become a world-class example of, and engage all humankind in, learning to live regenerative, harmonious lives.
Apply at least 1-2 months in advance of wanting to stay.
Your initial term will be a 1 month visitor stay where you will have no or little responsibility, just joining in and getting a feel for us and we for you.
If it feels like a good enough fit, you will stay on for another 3 months, have a review/feedback meeting, then stay for another 3 months. After this 2 x 6 month terms are available, then year long terms after that.
Please visit our website wilderland.org.nz to find out more about us. If you would like to apply, please visit our volunteering page. For the best chance of having your application accepted, please apply at least 1-2 months in advance.
A few people (not elected by the broader community) make the major decisions.
A single person, couple, or small group makes most major decisions.
Primary authority rests with the community’s founder(s) or designated leader(s).
Generally we hold Anarchistic principles in the wider group (everyone currently onsite), favouring to develop individual relationships and work together to willingly change behaviours where requested, to support our goals. However, as an organisation, we do need have some basic rules of how individuals should act – especially since we have such a transient membership group.
All member income goes into common pool for community use.
Labor: Yes (30 hrs/week)
Members with pre-existing debt: allowed
A fee is generally required for students, but not currently for members.
The income developed from selling our produce, educational courses, etc. goes directly back into the organisation (which can include stipends for long term members when possible).
The expenses/income of the community and that of individuals are currently kept separate.
We all work towards the common good of Wilderland’s business etc., however Wilderland is not currently at a stage where it supplies fully the needs of the long or short term individuals living here.
Common House, Garden(s), Greenhouse(s), Vehicle Share, Library, Workshop, Outbuilding(s), Swimming pond or pool, Outdoor Kitchen, Large Scale Kitchen, Tractor & Farm Equipment, Fire pit, Swingsets & play areas, Waterfront access, Gym or sports area, Internet
Countryside locations with significant distance from urban centers.
Integrated communities designed around ecological principles with sustainable living practices.
Communal living with shared resources, property, and often income or work responsibilities
Connecting communities through an intentional online marketplace
A residential project: people live here as their primary home.
An institution, business, network, or project that isn’t a residence (e.g. a learning center, farm, or network with no one living there full-time).
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