2024: 26 Nov - 31 Dec | 2025: 24 Jan - 7 Feb | 4 Feb - 29 Mar | 29 Mar - 28 Apr | 1 May - 29 Jun | 28 Jun - 13 Jul | 13-27 Jul 2025: 1-24 Jan
On a house-sit right now
Pawsitive couple
37, textile artist
38, test engineer (software)
Kia ora!
We are Viktoria and Ivan, a married couple of Kiwis, currently house-sitting in New Zealand. We moved to Auckland in 2015 and found a new home here. During these years, we lived only in one city, travelling across the country for holidays, and visiting almost every corner of New Zealand. Now, we are on an adventure! We are a calm and friendly couple who enjoy being outdoors and activities like walking, hiking, running, and cycling. We also enjoy spending quiet evenings at home. We love animals, and they always feel comfortable around us.
Viktoria spent a lot of time in her childhood in the countryside. Her grandparents had a household with cats, dogs, chickens, cows, goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits and bees. So she learned to take care of little friends from an early age. She also petted a couple of budgerigars in the parent's house. Ivan wasn't so lucky in his childhood, but shortly after marrying Viktoria, he discovered all the benefits of having a furry friend. We adopted a little kitten named Buka, raised her, and lived side by side for six years. Unfortunately, we had to leave her due to NZ immigration difficulties for overseas pets. It was heartbreaking for both of us, but we chose what was best for our beloved cat. She happily lives with Viktoria's mom.
Since then, we couldn't afford to adopt another cat or dog. But we lived in the household with a dog and a few chickens, and also had very unusual pets of our own, like a garden snail and a praying mantis (for two years and six months accordingly). It was an incredible experience, and we discovered a lot about these amazing creatures. Surely, they lived their best lives with us :) Also, we used to have a bird feeder attached to our home office window. The main visitors were a cheeky sparrow family.
Last Christmas we tried house-sitting for the first time and found it very enjoyable. We lived with 3 adorable dogs in Wanaka and instantly recalled how rewarding having four paw friends was. Besides that, we're looking after our friend's cat in Auckland from time to time.
Recently we sold our house in Auckland. We decided this is a great opportunity for us to start house/pet-sitting full-time and finally have a flexible lifestyle. We both work from home, so your pets will never feel lonely. We're a very tidy and responsible couple, so your property will be in good hands. And we will treat your pets like our own, giving them as much attention, love and cuddles as they need.
We are very excited about a new chapter in our life and looking forward to hearing from you! Viktoria & Ivan
Reviews (17)
Viktoria and Ivan were the best house sitters I have ever experienced - if you can book them, make sure you do! They were incredible with my animals - I have an ex feral cat who is scared of all people and I was very worried about leaving him, within a week, they had gained his trust and he we was seeking them out for cuddles - this was just amazing! The communication I had from them during the sit was superb, it absolutely put my mind at ease and meant I could enjoy my time away without ... MOREViktoria and Ivan were the best house sitters I have ever experienced - if you can book them, make sure you do! They were incredible with my animals - I have an ex feral cat who is scared of all people and I was very worried about leaving him, within a week, they had gained his trust and he we was seeking them out for cuddles - this was just amazing! The communication I had from them during the sit was superb, it absolutely put my mind at ease and meant I could enjoy my time away without worrying. Not only did they do an incredible job with my 3 cats, and managed a tricky situation where one is indoor only, they also kept my chickens happy and well! Not only this, but I came home to a house which was spotless, and the laundry done! I cannot stress enough how great they are/were.
CLARE (Cashmere South Island, May 2024 - 4 weeks)
Beautiful humans who we were delighted to have sit a second time. With a new puppy as well! Victoria and Ivan are brilliant and we would happily welcome them back again. Thanks to you both.
TINA (Waipukurau North Island, Oct 2024 - 1 month 1 week - 1 of 2 endorsements from this owner )
This was our 1st time using house sitters, so we were unsure of what to expect. We first met Ivan and Viktoria online for an initial get to know each other and another for about 2 hrs before we left for 21 days, Being our first time we were a little anxious. Suffice to say we shouldn't have been.
We got daily pictures of the adventures our two dogs were having with them playing, walking and watching TV. We came home to an immaculate house and section, Ivan had even done some rodent control ... MOREThis was our 1st time using house sitters, so we were unsure of what to expect. We first met Ivan and Viktoria online for an initial get to know each other and another for about 2 hrs before we left for 21 days, Being our first time we were a little anxious. Suffice to say we shouldn't have been.
We got daily pictures of the adventures our two dogs were having with them playing, walking and watching TV. We came home to an immaculate house and section, Ivan had even done some rodent control outside!
We would recommend Ivan and Viktoria in a heartbeat, they are two fantastic people who take pride in looking after your house and pets. When we go away again let's hope they are free and want to come back as we would hesitate to ask them again.
KATE (Waipukurau North Island, Oct 2024 - 3 weeks)
Viktoria and Ivan looked after our home and cat Bella recently during an overseas holiday; we couldn't be happier with them and would love to have them back again! We were away for 6 weeks which is the longest we've ever left Bella for, it was such a relief to know she was safe and happy under their care. Communication was excellent and we had constant pictures and videos which really showed how comfortable Bella was with both Ivan & Viktoria, while she was definitely happy to see us home I ... MOREViktoria and Ivan looked after our home and cat Bella recently during an overseas holiday; we couldn't be happier with them and would love to have them back again! We were away for 6 weeks which is the longest we've ever left Bella for, it was such a relief to know she was safe and happy under their care. Communication was excellent and we had constant pictures and videos which really showed how comfortable Bella was with both Ivan & Viktoria, while she was definitely happy to see us home I think she will miss hanging out with them! The whole sit was very easy and stress-free and we returned to a lovely clean home. Absolutely recommend this lovely couple for any housesitting requirements.
NICOLA (Rolleston South Island, Aug 2024 - 1 month 1 week)
We highly recommend Victoria and Ivan. From the beginning their communication was awesome. They took great care of our dog and cat, we received regular updates with lovely photos. When we arrived home our house was beautifully clean and tidy.
JAMIE (Kaiapoi South Island, Aug 2024 - 1 week)
Exceptional people and exceptional house/dog sitters. Could not recommend them highly enough. Our dog Willow clearly loved her time with Ivan and Viktoria and was sad to see them leave. The house was left spotless after their stay. Communication was great and we were regularly updated with photos and messages. We would happily have them back for any future house sits. Thanks a lot you two, all the best with future sits!
JOSHUA (Rolleston South Island, Jul 2024 - 2 weeks 6 nights)
We were so lucky to find Viktoria and Ivan on houses sitters.
They did an outstanding job of taking care of our precious pets and looking after our home. Our dog, Pip was very spoiled with lots of walks and both her and our cat received lots of love and attention and fitted in to our animals routine.
Uppon our return, we found the house spotless and little touches such as the wood box filled, rubbish and recycling taken care. We have a rural lifestyle property and not the easiest property ... MOREWe were so lucky to find Viktoria and Ivan on houses sitters.
They did an outstanding job of taking care of our precious pets and looking after our home. Our dog, Pip was very spoiled with lots of walks and both her and our cat received lots of love and attention and fitted in to our animals routine.
Uppon our return, we found the house spotless and little touches such as the wood box filled, rubbish and recycling taken care. We have a rural lifestyle property and not the easiest property to look after, but they did a wonderful job.
Their communication during our 7 weeks away was excellent and we really appreciated the photos and videos of our pets.
We have no hesitation to recommend Viktoria and Ivan, a very genuine and trustworthy couple.
SHARLANE (Rangiora South Island, Jun 2024 - 1 month 3 weeks)
Couldn’t ask for better sitters. 100% would use again and recommend to anyone.
JACK (Rolleston South Island, May 2024 - 4 nights)
"Viktoria and Ivan were amazing. They looked great after the house, the plants, and our cat. The house was left in excellent condition, even cleaner than we left it. Our cat was not stressed, and they are great with animals. Communication between them before, during, and after the stay was clear and timely. We will definitely use them again in the future and highly recommend them.
PETER (Hobsonville Point North Island, Apr 2024 - 3 weeks)
Viktoria and Ivan were the best what we could have imagined for house sitters ❤️ while traveling to Europe and I can only recommend them to anyone looking for one. From the very beginning the communication was super smooth and very pleasant. We received very frequent updates, photos and videos of Foxy. Foxy was in seventh heaven with them I can tell you 😊 She will definitely miss them and if we are lucky Viktoria and Ivan will house sit for us in the future again or stop for a visit if in ... MOREViktoria and Ivan were the best what we could have imagined for house sitters ❤️ while traveling to Europe and I can only recommend them to anyone looking for one. From the very beginning the communication was super smooth and very pleasant. We received very frequent updates, photos and videos of Foxy. Foxy was in seventh heaven with them I can tell you 😊 She will definitely miss them and if we are lucky Viktoria and Ivan will house sit for us in the future again or stop for a visit if in neighbourhood.
When my partner came back home (as I stay away longer) he said that the house was in an amazing state of cleanness and tidiness. He also said that all the plants were thriving. Therefore huge thank you for taking care of Foxy and our home! And best of luck with the future house sits🌻
ZUZANA (Otaki North Island, Mar 2024 - 1 month 1 week)
Viktoria and Ivan house/pet sat at our place for a week. Lovely couple, pets were well looked after and fussed over. House was lovely, clean, and tidy on our return. Kept us in the loop of what our pets were up to. They can be a challenge, especially our dogs, but they did very well with them. Thanks Ivan and Viktoria. Highly recommend this husband and wife duo. Happy travels.
SHONA (Normanby North Island, Feb 2024 - 6 nights)
A delightful couple.
Friendly, great communication and the house was immaculate on our return.
PAUL (Koru Oakura North Island, Feb 2024 - 2 nights)
What an amazing couple. So easy to arrange handover with. Immediately loving our fur babies. House was immaculate and extra ‘ant nest’ hunting appreciated. Photos and videos a treat. Would highly recommend. Thanks guys !!
TINA (Waipukurau North Island, Jan 2024 - 2 weeks 1 night - 2 of 2 endorsements from this owner )
Best experience with housesitters ever - exceeded my expectation 10x times!
Viktoria and Ivan took the time to learn more about our cat Lisa before their stay, accommodating our schedule. While we were away, they provided us regular updates on how Lisa was doing (she was thriving!), took her funny traits with laughs and understanding, and it was clear that not only Lisa was in good hands, but she was with people who truly care.
We arrived home and it was SO beautiful and clean here 😘😍 we ... MOREBest experience with housesitters ever - exceeded my expectation 10x times!
Viktoria and Ivan took the time to learn more about our cat Lisa before their stay, accommodating our schedule. While we were away, they provided us regular updates on how Lisa was doing (she was thriving!), took her funny traits with laughs and understanding, and it was clear that not only Lisa was in good hands, but she was with people who truly care.
We arrived home and it was SO beautiful and clean here 😘😍 we didn’t expect it and were pleasantly stunned! Thank you very much! Come again🤭 And Lisa (our cat) demonstrated that, in general, it didn't matter to her that we have arrived. You are home? OK...
All the way Viktoria and Ivan were one step ahead and we had zero hiccups. The most pleasant experience.
SOFIA (Ellerslie North Island, Jan 2024 - 1 week 1 night)
Ivan and Viktoria looked after our house, our 2 large dogs and cat for 9 days. We couldn't have been happier with them. Communication was great before and during the house sit, it was great to get regular updates/pics of the animals. They both obviously loved the animals like their own. The house was very well cared for and left in immaculate condition. Would love to have them stay again!
BRENDA (Wattle Downs North Island, Jan 2024 - 1 week 2 nights)
AMAZing, can’t recommend highly enough. They were kind enough to take on our dog who has epilepsy and were willing to give medication and even deal with the seizures, which unfortunately occurred whilst we were away. They fixed minor house problems that occurred and looked after the house so well. House was cleaner than we left it. They kept us informed and sent updates on the dogs, which gave us great peace of mind. We hope they will agree to a future sit with us again.
ROBERT (Omokoroa North Island, Dec 2023 - 4 weeks)
Viktoria and Ivan were the BEST house and pet sitters I could have asked for. They treated my schnoodle to lots of walks, cuddles and play time and so much love that he was crying at the gate when they left (and I think he would have quite happily left with them!). Their communication was excellent and prompt and the daily photos and/ or short videos of their adventures with him gave me peace of mind and comfort that he was having a ball with them. The house was well looked after and spotlessly ... MOREViktoria and Ivan were the BEST house and pet sitters I could have asked for. They treated my schnoodle to lots of walks, cuddles and play time and so much love that he was crying at the gate when they left (and I think he would have quite happily left with them!). Their communication was excellent and prompt and the daily photos and/ or short videos of their adventures with him gave me peace of mind and comfort that he was having a ball with them. The house was well looked after and spotlessly clean on my return. I would not hesitate to have them house and pet sit again in the future (and I think my schnoodle would agree!).
ANDREA (Hobsonville North Island, Nov 2023 - 1 week 3 nights)
Green garden!
Make sure the garden and pot plants are thriving when you get back - get a house sitter.
Couple
Viktoria and Ivan were the best house sitters I have ever experienced - if you can book them, make sure you do! They were incredible with my animals - I have an ex feral cat who is scared of all people and I was very worried about leaving him, within a week, they had gained his trust and he we was seeking them out for cuddles - this was just amazing! The communication I had from them during the sit was superb, it absolutely put my mind at ease and meant I could enjoy my time away without ... MORE
Beautiful humans who we were delighted to have sit a second time. With a new puppy as well! Victoria and Ivan are brilliant and we would happily welcome them back again. Thanks to you both.
