The website lists more than 125 boutique wineries, breweries, artisan cheesemakers, olive groves, rural cafes, and unique experiences from across the country where motorhome visitors can not only stop in and purchase wonderful local produce but can also park overnight, free of charge for one night. It is designed to be a win-win for both travellers and producers.
A trip to the USA in 2012 and membership with a similar organisation, Harvest Hosts, inspired husband and wife Colleen and Dave Hammonds to set up Okay2stay.
There is no charge for hosts, who are not required to offer any services such as toilets or electricity. They just have to be willing to allow a self-contained motorhome to park free of charge for one night and Okay2stay delivers a food and wine tourist to their doorstep.
The majority of members are overseas visitors who are looking for a unique New Zealand experience. But more and more Kiwis are enjoying the delights of a cellar door, buying a couple of bottles of wine and retiring to their van among the vines for the night. What’s not to like?
