House concerts have been popular in NZ for sometime. Some are run with a meal to begin (potluck/BYO), but others maybe in the afternoon with tea/coffee. No legal hassles - guess the cost is regarded as a donation towards costs.
Insurance isn't an issue - we have an Accident Compensation system, which means you can't sue if you have a wee accident. Great way for northern folks to have a working holiday - get board, meet people etc - and for Kiwis to hear new songs and realise they aren't too bad after all!