Kim & Lewis Howell

My husband and I are Americans who have been living in Whakatane for 13 years. He is currently the Pastor of Sonshine Baptist Church. We have 2 daughters who are grown and are living back in the States so we are empty nesters.

I've begun writing romance and children's books so I would welcome some time away to write. We've decided to look for the occasional house-sitting job where we could be a blessing to others and keep a good eye on their house, gardens, pets, etc. At the same time, we could get away for a few days. We can Facetime homeowners so they get to know us if they'd like.

If a house-sitting job is within 2-3 hours' drive of Whakatane, I Kim, may come for a few days by myself if my husband can't get away from church obligations for the whole time. But we'd plan on both of us for the whole length of time if possible.

I have allergies to cats and smoking so I couldn't sit in a house that has cats or cigarette smoke. Dogs or birds would be fine. I've had aviaries with finches for a few years. I have large gardens in my yard and I've become familiar with many NZ plants and shrubs. I could tend to most garden jobs owners may need. If the job is within 2-3 hours of Whakatane, we'd have no problem bringing our own vehicle.