Conservation Volunteer Activities - Southland, Fiordland and Otago 2021-2022
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Conservation Volunteer Activities Southland, Fiordland and Otago 2021–2022
Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Other volunteer opportunities. . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
What to expect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Bluff Hill/Motupōhue Environment Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
What to bring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Coal Island/Te Puka Hereka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Coastal Otago. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Our goals for working with volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Hollyford Conservation Trust – Te Roopu Manaaki o
Whakatipu Waitai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
DOC’s purpose and outcomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Kākāpō Recovery Programme. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Southland, Fiordland and Otago map ����������������� 8 Mamaku Point Conservation Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Omaui Landcare Charitable Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Southland, Fiordland and Otago conservation
Orokonui Living Legends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
volunteer activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Otatara Landcare Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
1. Stewart Island/Rakiura – Raroa historic house and Pomona Island Charitable Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
garden maintenance.................................... 10
Southland Community Nursery and Education Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . 54
2. Stewart Island/Rakiura – annual hut maintenance............ 11
Stewart Island/Rakiura Community and Environment
3. Milford Track – Dumpling Hut and track maintenance......... 12 Trust (SIRCET). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
4. Stewart Island/Rakiura – Halfmoon Bay local tracks Stewart Island Community Native Plant Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
maintenance.......................................... 13
Wakatipu Reforestation Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
5. Sandfly Bay – wildlife viewing ranger...................... 14
Wakatipu Wildlife Trust (WWT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
6. Piano Flat – historic water race restoration.................. 16
7. Moturau Moana – historic native garden maintenance......... 17 Websites for additional opportunities ���������������59
8. Stewart Island/Rakiura – dune restoration.................. 18
Terms and conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
9. Stewart Island/Rakiura – hut rangers....................... 20
Applying for activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
10. Mavora Lakes Hut and facility maintenance................ 22
Acceptance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
11. Papatowai – house, campsite and track maintenance........ 23
Cancellation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
12. Liverpool Hut – maintenance............................ 25
13. Curio Bay – summer rangers............................ 26 Application form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
14. Nugget Point Lighthouse Reserve – summer rangers......... 28
15. Ulva Island – summer rangers............................ 30
16. Hollyford valley – track and hut maintenance............... 32
17. Southland – backcountry track maintenance................ 34
18. Southland – preservation of historic relics.................. 35
19. Stewart Island/Rakiura – historic sawmilling site maintenance... 36
20. Fiordland – lakeside hut maintenance..................... 37
21. Port Pegasus/Pikihatiti – historic tin-mining site maintenance.... 38
22. Milford Road – historic maintenance...................... 39
23. Burwood Takahē Centre................................ 40
24. Port Craig Hut and South Coast Track – maintenance........ 42
Introduction
Welcome to the Department of Conservation’s FITNESS LEVEL GUIDE
(DOC’s) volunteer activities booklet, which
Low: Easily walk up to 2 hours over flat ground.
describes some of the ways you can participate
in conservation opportunities around Southland, Medium: Can comfortably walk with a 5 kg pack for up to
4 hours over uneven ground.
Fiordland and Otago. These activities are a chance
to learn new skills, meet new people, undertake High: Capable of walking with a 10 kg pack for up to 6 hours
over uneven ground.
useful conservation work and enjoy New Zealand’s
beautiful outdoors. Very high: Experienced at walking with a 10+ kg pack for
several consecutive days over steep, rough terrain.
What to expect
ACCOMMODATION: This is arranged, unless otherwise stated. What to bring
Volunteers usually stay in basic backcountry huts (outdoor toilets, Activities have varying requirements. A full equipment list and
no shower, coal/gas cooking facilities) or DOC houses, aboard information pack specific to the activity will be issued before
boats or camp in tents. starting the activity.
TRANSPORT: This will be arranged from the pickup location to
and from the worksite, unless otherwise stated.
Registration
Some activities include contact details and registration
FOOD AND COOKING UTENSILS: These are provided unless
information on the activity page. For all other activities, please
otherwise stated. Usually everybody helps to prepare meals.
complete the form at the back of this booklet or apply on the
EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS: These are generally provided unless DOC website.
otherwise stated.
Our goals for working with volunteers
RECREATION: Meeting people and enjoying their company is an
important part of our conservation volunteer activities. Time may › We recognise that volunteers are fundamental to our vision
be given for participating in recreation activities and visiting local and goals in conservation.
places of interest. › We make the most of the potential that volunteers offer.
FITNESS LEVEL: Most activities take place outdoors and require
› We make it easy and rewarding for people to take action
a reasonable level of fitness and self-motivation. Activity leaders for conservation by volunteering.
may choose to make sure applicants for activities can cope with
the activity tasks. › We deliver quality volunteer activities where the volunteer
is central to the experience to grow conservation.
› We share, support and learn from others to make bigger
gains for conservation through volunteering.
4 5
Partner with whānau, hapū and iwi Te ora o Papatūānuku
and collaborate with others Healthy nature
Care for the land, the waters, Te ora o te Hapori
our native species and our heritage Thriving communities
Advocate for nature, and be a regulator Te hunga Atawhai
People who care
Foster recreation in nature
Tell the stories of our nature
and our history
Whakatīnanatia Within our operating model,
We deliver our decision-making principles are:
Atawhaitia a Papatūānuku − Elevating principles of the Treaty
We love nature and fulfilling our whānau, hapū and
iwi relationships
Whakawhānaungatanga
We build relationships − Holding wellbeing and safety
at our heart
Whakaauaha
We innovate − Working together with others
− Leaving the world a better place
6 7
Southland, Fiordland Southland,
and Otago map Hokitika
Fiordland and
Westland/
Hari Hari Otago conservation
volunteer activities
Tai Poutini
National Park Franz Josef/Waiau
Aoraki/Mount Cook
National Park
Te Kahui Kaupeka
Conservation Park
Haast
Lake Tekapo
Ruataniwha
Conservation
Park Fairlie
Ahuriri Twizel
Makarora Conservation
Hāwea Park
Mount Aspiring Conservation
National Park Park Omarama
Lake Hawea
Oteake Waimate
Wanaka
Conservation
Park
Cromwell
Oamaru
QUEENSTOWN
Ranfurly
Alexandra
Moeraki
Eyre Mountains /
Taka Ra Haka
Te Anau Conservation Park Palmerston
Te Papanui
Conservation Park
Lumsden
Fiordland Lawrence
National Park DUNEDIN
Gore
Milton
Tuatapere Winton
Mataura Balclutha
Catlins
Riverton/Aparima Conservation
INVERCARGILL Park
Codfish Island/
Whenua Hou
(Whenuahou)
Halfmoon Bay
Rakiura (Oban)
National Park
LEGEND
Stewart Island/
Rakiura Marine Reserve
Marine Mammal Sanctuary
National Park
Conservation Park
Scenic Reserve
0 50km 100km
Other areas
8 Photo: DOC 9
1 2
Photo: DOC Photo: Michael Douglas
Stewart Island/Rakiura Stewart Island/Rakiura – annual
– Raroa historic house and hut maintenance
garden maintenance Volunteers are needed to help with the annual maintenance
Raroa House and gardens were established in 1934. of huts around the coastline of Stewart Island/Rakiura. The
This is the former residence of Captain George Turner. focus will be on the huts around Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te
Wera and/or the North West Circuit.
George was an avid
STEWART ISLAND/RAKIURA conservationist and This is an ideal opportunity to visit the picturesque rugged
recognised the importance coastline of the island while doing worthwhile work
4 volunteers for 6 days interspersed with bird watching, photography, hunting
of protecting walks near
Halfmoon Bay, which and/or fishing (permits required).
Sunday 5 September –
Friday 10 September 2021 remained undamaged Tasks will include painting, a full interior clean and light
by early milling and land building repairs.
clearance. George planted
many New Zealand natives on the 1.6 hectares of land now FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
known as the Raroa Scenic Reserve. STEWART ISLAND/RAKIURA Medium to high.
Volunteers must be agile
This is a great opportunity to help restore this historic 4 volunteers for 8 days and capable of getting
property. Tasks will include painting, cleaning, weeding and in and out of small boats
basic building maintenance. There will be time to visit the Tuesday 21 September –
confidently. They must
local tracks and other areas around Halfmoon Bay. Tuesday 28 September 2021
also be able to carry
personal gear and lots
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium. May involve working in the
of heavy (max 15 kg) work equipment from the beach landings
rain, mud and other coastal conditions, as well as long periods
to the huts.
of bending and/or kneeling.
ACCOMMODATION: A variety of basic backcountry huts.
ACCOMMODATION: Shared accommodation at Raroa House.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura,
Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura, late
at 8.30 am on Tuesday 21 September. Volunteers will be
afternoon on Sunday 5 September. Volunteers will be returned to
returned to the same location at around 3.00 pm on
the same location at around 4.00 pm on Friday 10 September.
Tuesday 28 September.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There is
is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to
no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to make
make their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/
their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/Rakiura.
Rakiura. Food, accommodation and transport will be provided
by DOC once you’re on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
10 11
3 4
Photo: DOC Photo: DOC
Milford Track – Dumpling Hut and Stewart Island/Rakiura –
track maintenance Halfmoon Bay local tracks
This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to spend a week maintenance
on a popular track in Fiordland before the masses of
This is a marvellous opportunity to explore DOC tracks
people arrive for the busy summer season. Learn about
around Halfmoon Bay and Paterson Inlet. Learn about the
the area’s interesting history and take a side trip to see the
island’s rich history while enjoying the stunning scenery and
magnificent Sutherland Falls with its staggering 580-m drop.
abundant birdlife.
Tasks will include
Milford Track Volunteers will help clear
hut cleaning, minor STEWART ISLAND/
FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK vegetation using scrub
building repairs, track RAKIURA
bars, do leaf blowing, clear
4 volunteers for 5 days maintenance and a
6 volunteers for 6 days drains, repair tracks, clean
general tidy of the
signs and carry out general
Monday 20 September – surrounding area.
Friday 24 September 2021 Sunday 3 October – maintenance of facilities.
If the weather is poor Sunday 10 October 2021
and we cannot reach FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
Dumpling Hut, work will instead be carried out on the Medium. Volunteers must be
Kepler Track at Moturau and Shallow Bay huts. comfortable working for 8 hours per day outside in all weather
conditions. Volunteers must also be agile and capable of getting
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium.
in and out of small boats confidently, as some areas may
ACCOMMODATION: Dumpling Hut and the staff quarters. be accessed using the DOC boat or a dingy. Two volunteers
will need a current first aid certificate – please state on your
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
application form if you have one.
workshop, 19 Caswell Road, Te Anau at 9.00 am on Monday
20 September. Volunteers will be returned to the same location ACCOMMODATION: Shared accommodation at Raroa house.
at 4.00 pm on Friday 24 September. PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $120 Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura, late
per person. afternoon on Sunday 3 October. Volunteers will be returned to
the same location at around 8.00 am on Sunday 10 October.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There
is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to
make their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/
Rakiura. Food, accommodation and transport will be provided
by DOC once you’re on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
12 13
5
Photo: Karen Connor
Sandfly Bay – wildlife
viewing ranger
Sandfly Bay is one of the Otago Peninsula’s most
popular destinations, featuring hoiho/yellow-eyed
penguins, rāpoka/sea lions and other wildlife.
Volunteers will educate visitors about the penguins
and how to behave around wildlife.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
Sandfly Bay Medium. Beach access is via
OTAGO PENINSULA,
a steep sand dune.
DUNEDIN
ACCOMMODATION: This is
Late afternoon until not provided.
early evening, several
nights per month LOCATION: Volunteers will
need to make their own way
Mid-October 2021 – to Sandfly Bay each evening,
mid-April 2022 which is a 20-minute drive
from Dunedin.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT:
There is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will
need to provide their own transport or we may be able to
arrange transport with other volunteers.
TO REGISTER / FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: To book,
contact the DOC Dunedin Visitor Centre on 027 408 3353.
Volunteers must be able to commit to several nights a
month. Training will be provided. For further information,
visit www.doc.govt.nz/otagovolunteers
14 Photo: Kathrin & Stefan Marks 15
6 7
Photo: DOC Photo: Christina Paterson
Piano Flat – historic water race Moturau Moana – historic native
restoration garden maintenance
Volunteers will carry out maintenance on the historic water Tucked away on the north shore of Halfmoon Bay with
race in the Piano Flat area, the only known operational views into Bragg Bay, Butterfield Beach and beyond are the
water race in Southland. The work will involve clearing picturesque gardens of Moturau Moana. Originally the site of
weeds, cutting back vegetation, earthworks and fluming Noeline Baker’s Dutch colonial home, the property was gifted
maintenance. This beautiful location has great opportunities to the New Zealand Government in the 1940s. Miss Baker
for trout fishing, bush walks and photography. was awarded the Loder Cup in 1949 for her keen interest
in New Zealand’s native plants and for making the gardens
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium available to the public.
Piano Flat, Waikaia to high.
Forest Although the homestead burnt down in 1967, the local
NORTHERN ACCOMMODATION: This will be community board still maintains the gardens with DOC’s
SOUTHLAND confirmed with the successful assistance, helping the Stewart Island/Rakiura community to
applicants. retain an important visitor site.
4 volunteers for 5 days
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION
Tasks will include tree trimming, weeding, planting, garden
TRIP A: Monday 18 AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
maintenance and tidying, as well as propagating native
October – Friday 22 workshop (at the rear of Marshall
plants at the Stewart Island Community Native Plant Nursery.
October 2021 Industries), 193 Bond Street,
Invercargill at 8.30 am on the FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
TRIP B: Monday 7
day the trip starts. Alternatively, STEWART ISLAND/ Medium. May involve working
March – Friday 11 RAKIURA
volunteers can meet at Piano in the rain, mud and other
March 2022
Flat – please advise the trip coastal conditions, as well
6 volunteers for 5 days
leader if you wish to do this. as long periods of bending
Volunteers will be returned to the DOC workshop at around Monday 18 October – and/or kneeling.
4.00 pm on the last day. Friday 22 October 2021 ACCOMMODATION: Local
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $150 shared accommodation –
per person. details will be confirmed with the successful applicants.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura at
8.00 am on Monday 18 October. Volunteers will be returned to
the same location at around 4.00 pm on Friday 22 October.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION:
$80 per person. Transport to and from Stewart Island/Rakiura
will be arranged with the successful applicants.
16 17
8
Photo: Georgia Poole
Stewart Island/Rakiura – dune
restoration
This is a fantastic opportunity for people who want to visit ACCOMMODATION:
STEWART ISLAND/RAKIURA A variety of shared
remote areas of Stewart Island/Rakiura while also gaining
accommodation.
biodiversity field experience. 2 volunteers for 6–8 weeks
PICKUP/DROP-OFF
Volunteers will undertake weed control in remote sand dune LOCATION AND TIMES:
TRIP A:
environments on the west coast of Stewart Island/Rakiura. Tuesday 26 October – The meeting time and
Weed control will target pest plant species like marram Thursday 23 December 2021 location will be arranged
grass, gorse and tree lupin. You will hand weed these pests (Mason Bay/Te One Roa) with the successful
and spray them with herbicide. Both trips will carry out applicants.
TRIP B:
weed control at Mason Bay, while Trip B will also work at CONTRIBUTION
Thursday 6 January –
Dough Boy Bay and East and West Ruggedy. TOWARDS FOOD AND
Wednesday 16 February 2022
Volunteers will enjoy amazing views of the island as they fly (Mason Bay, Doughboy Bay, TRANSPORT: There is
from Oban to the work sites on the west side of the island. East and West Ruggedy) no charge for this activity.
However, volunteers
Trips A and B are made up of multiple 10-day field trips.
will need to make their
Volunteers will have 5 days off in between each field trip and
own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/Rakiura.
are free explore the island.
Accommodation and transport will be provided by DOC once
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: A high level of fitness is required as the volunteers are on Stewart Island/Rakiura. Food will be
the work is arduous and requires climbing up steep sandy provided while volunteers are away in the field, however they
slopes. Volunteers must be comfortable working 8–10 hours must provide their own food on their days off in Oban.
per day outside, in all weather conditions. Volunteers will wear
full body overalls, gumboots, a face mask and goggles, and be
required to carry a 15 kg knapsack on their back while spraying.
A current outdoor first aid certificate is recommended.
Photo: DOC
18 199
Photo: DOC
Stewart Island/Rakiura –
hut rangers
This is an excellent opportunity to experience the ACCOMMODATION: Port William and North Arm have private
backcountry of Stewart Island/Rakiura. Hut rangers will be hut warden quarters. The huts have solar lighting and gas
based at either Port William Hut or North Arm Hut on the cooking facilities and can comfortably accommodate two people.
Rakiura Track. This area has significant historical value and This opportunity may suit a couple or two friends.
there is also a good chance of seeing kiwi in the wild, so PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
make sure to bring your camera! Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura.
Dates and times will be confirmed with the successful applicants.
Tasks will include greeting visitors, checking hut tickets,
pest control, track maintenance and cleaning hut facilities. CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There
Safety equipment will be supplied but volunteers are is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to
expected to bring their own boots, gaiters and rain gear. make their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/
Rakiura and will also need to provide their own food on their
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: days off in Oban. Reimbursement for food will be provided
STEWART ISLAND/ Medium. Volunteers will for one person while in the field – any partners or friends
RAKIURA be working 4–6 hours per accompanying the volunteer must provide their own food.
day. They must be good
1–2 volunteers for
2 weeks per trip with people, self-motivated,
and willing to set and clear
TRIP A: November 2021 rat traps. Comprehensive
training will be provided
TRIP B: April/May 2022
and volunteers must have a
current first aid certificate.
Applicants will be vetted by
police for this role.
Photo: Aristya Marzuki
20 2110 11
Photo: Chris Garden Photo: John Peterson
Mavora Lakes Hut and facility Papatowai – house, campsite and
maintenance track maintenance
The Mavora Lakes area is an impressive landscape of serene Nestled in native bush beside the Papatowai Campsite is
lakes, mountains, open tussock, grasslands and beech forest. an old DOC ranger house with easy access to the beautiful
With its large campground and five backcountry huts, the beach and estuary. Nearby is the Tahakopa Bay Scenic
area is very popular in the summer months, as it is a great Reserve and many bush walks.
place for camping, fishing, mountain biking, tramping and
We need assistance with weeding, vegetation trimming,
water sports. This is a fantastic opportunity to come and
amenity cleaning, minor building repairs and a general
explore this beautiful place.
tidy up of the campsite and area surrounding the DOC
Tasks will include hut cleaning, building repairs, campsite house at Papatowai before the busy summer season begins.
maintenance, track maintenance and setting up hut water Track maintenance may also be undertaken on some of
supplies before the busy summer season starts. the local tracks in the area.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium. FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
Mavora Lakes Carpentry/building skills would be THE CATLINS Medium. Carpentry and
SOUTHLAND very useful on this trip. building skills would be
4 volunteers for 5 days
3 volunteers for 5 days ACCOMMODATION: Backcountry useful on this trip.
huts and possibly a night or Monday 8 November – ACCOMMODATION: Fully
Monday 8 November two camping. Friday 12 November 2021 furnished, three-bedroom
– Friday 12 DOC house at Papatowai.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION
November 2021 A hot shower and laundry
AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
workshop, 19 Caswell Road, facilities are available, and all kitchen appliances and equipment
Te Anau at 9.00 am on Monday 8 November. Volunteers will be are provided.
returned to the same location at 4.00 pm on Friday 12 November. PICK UP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $100 Field Centre, 20 Ryley Street, Owaka on Monday 8 November at
per person. 8.30 am. The activity will finish at Papatowai at around 4.00 pm
on Friday 12 November.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $120
per person.
22 2312
Photo: DOC
Liverpool Hut – maintenance
Liverpool Hut is 1,100 m below Mt Liverpool and has
stunning views of Mount Aspiring/Tititea and the upper
west Matukituki.
Volunteers will be flown to
West Matukituki valley and from Liverpool Hut to
MOUNT ASPIRING
NATIONAL PARK
polyurethane the interior
walls and help with minor
4 volunteers for 5 days hut maintenance.
There is a wet-weather
Monday 22 November –
Friday 26 November alternative at Aspiring
2021 Hut, where volunteers will
help with hut and track
maintenance.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium–high. Painting and carpentry
skills would be useful. Volunteers must be comfortable working
on ladders and scaffolding. Also, if the weather is not favourable
to fly out, volunteers may have to carry gear and walk out.
ACCOMMODATION: Volunteers must bring their own small tent.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the Tititea/
Mount Aspiring Visitor Centre, 1 Ballantyne Road, Wanaka, on
Monday 22 November at 9.00 am. Volunteers will be returned
to the same location at 3.00 pm on Friday 26 November.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $150
per person.
24 Photo: Nir Ketraru 2513
Photo: Ellen Taylor
Curio Bay – summer rangers THE CATLINS
ACCOMMODATION:
This will be confirmed
Curio Bay is one of Southland’s most popular destinations with the successful
2 volunteers for
and is home to several endangered endemic species, such applicants.
2 weeks per trip
as upokohue/Hector’s dolphin and the hoiho/yellow-eyed PICKUP/DROP-OFF
penguin, as well as a remarkable fossilised forest. Rangers TRIP A: Monday 22 LOCATION AND TIMES:
are needed to monitor visitor behaviour in Curio and November – Monday 6 The meeting time,
Porpoise bays, and to educate visitors about how to behave December 2021 location and training
around sensitive species and the fossilised forest. will be arranged
TRIP B: Monday 6 December
with the successful
– Monday 20 December 2021
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Low. Rangers must be visible around applicants.
Porpoise Bay for periods throughout the day to provide TRIP C: Monday 20
CONTRIBUTION
information to visitors about sea lions and dolphins. They must December 2021 – Wednesday TOWARDS FOOD
also be present on the rock platform and penguin walk area 5 January 2022 AND TRANSPORT:
from 4.00 pm to 9.00 pm daily, depending on tourist numbers TRIP D: Wednesday 5 January There is no charge
and penguin movements. Volunteers must be good with people, – Monday 17 January 2022 for this activity.
have a mature attitude, be able to communicate well and have However, volunteers
TRIP E: Monday 17 January
a good understanding of the English language. Rangers will also will need to provide
– Monday 31 January 2022
be required to shift signs and move rope barriers as dictated by their own food and
the tide. Applicants will be vetted by the police for this role. TRIP F: Monday 31 January transport. Due to
– Monday 14 February 2022 the isolated location of
Curio Bay, volunteers
TRIP G: Monday 14 February
must have their
– Monday 28 February 2022
own vehicle.
TRIP H: Monday 28 February
– Monday 14 March 2022
26 2714
Photo: Shellie Evans
Nugget Point Lighthouse Reserve – THE CATLINS
PICKUP/DROP-OFF
LOCATION AND TIMES:
summer rangers 2 volunteers for 2 weeks
Meet at the DOC Owaka
per trip Field Centre, 20 Ryley Street,
Nugget Point/Tokata Point is a popular tourist destination
Owaka at 9.00 am. Volunteers
where rare endemic botanical and wildlife species can be will be returned to the same
TRIP A: Monday 15
found, such as the hoiho/yellow-eyed penguin. Rangers are November – Monday 29 location at 10.00 am on the
needed to provide assistance and conservation education November 2021 dates stated above.
to visitors, as well as to maintain facilities and clean toilets
TRIP B: Monday 29 CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS
as required – due to high visitor numbers, the facilities must
November – Monday 13 FOOD AND TRANSPORT:
be clean and tidy at all times. This a great opportunity for a There is no charge for this
December 2021
couple or two friends. activity. However, volunteers
TRIP C: Monday 13
will need to provide their own
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Low. Rangers need to be visible in the December – Wednesday
food and transport. Due to the
reserve for 4–6 hours per day, particularly around the viewing 29 December 2021
isolated location of Nugget
area in the evenings. The tracks around the reserve are well
TRIP D: Wednesday Point/Tokata Point, volunteers
formed and an easy gradient. Volunteers need to have good
29 December 2021 – must have their own vehicle.
communication skills and enjoy talking to people from the
Monday 10 January 2022
local area, as well as other parts of New Zealand and overseas.
Applicants will be vetted by the police for this role. TRIP E: Monday 10
January – Monday 24
ACCOMMODATION: Former lighthouse keeper’s residence
January 2022
(managed by DOC) – a fully furnished four-bedroom brick house
at the top of the reserve. A hot shower and laundry facilities are TRIP F: Monday 24
available, and all kitchen appliances and equipment are provided. January – Monday 7
Each volunteer will have their own bedroom, but the kitchen/ February 2022
living area and bathroom may be shared from time to time with TRIP G: Monday 7
DOC staff working in the area. February – Monday 21
February 2022
TRIP H: Monday 21
February – Monday 7
March 2022
28 2915
Photo: DOC
Ulva Island – summer rangers
Ulva Island is the jewel in the crown of Rakiura National PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
Park. This predator-free, open island sanctuary is just 8 Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura at
minutes by boat across Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te Wera 10.45 am. Dates will be confirmed with the successful applicants.
from Golden Bay. The island has abundant birdlife, rich Please indicate your preferred dates on your application form.
forest, golden sand beaches and a variety of well-formed CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There
walking tracks. is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to
This is a rare opportunity to stay on this island paradise make their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/
Rakiura. Return transport between Oban and Ulva Island is
while acting as a roving ranger during the height of the
provided. Food is also provided for one volunteer – a partner or
visitor season.
friend can accompany the volunteer at their own expense and
Tasks will include track maintenance, weed surveillance, must provide their own food for the duration of their stay.
visitor facility maintenance, cleaning toilets, biosecurity
advocacy, monitoring visitor behaviour and trap checking.
There will also be ample time for other pursuits, such as
bird watching and photography.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium.
Ulva Island Good communication skills and an
STEWART ISLAND/
interest in conservation are essential.
RAKIURA
Some experience with GPS would
1 volunteer for be an advantage. Applicants may
3–4 weeks per trip be interviewed for their suitability.
Applicants will be vetted by the
November 2021 – police for this role.
April 2022
ACCOMMODATION: Rangers will
be expected to reside on the island.
A single-room basic hut is located a short walk from the island’s
jetty in Post Office Cove. The hut has solar lighting, gas cooking
facilities and can comfortably accommodate two people, so this
opportunity may suit a couple or two friends. Water is supplied Photo: Zoe Caals
from a rainwater tank and there is a solar shower and long drop
toilet. Occasional trips off the island are possible and may be
arranged on a per case basis.
30 3112
16
Photo: DOC
Hollyford valley – track and hut
maintenance
This is a fantastic opportunity to experience part of a PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
popular track in Fiordland and to learn about the area’s workshop, 19 Caswell Road, Te Anau at 1.00 pm on Monday
interesting history. 29 November. Volunteers will be returned to the same location
FIORDLAND in the early afternoon on Tuesday 7 December.
The first afternoon will consist
NATIONAL PARK CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $300
of a health and safety briefing
per person.
4 volunteers for for all volunteers, after which
9 days the group will help arrange
food and equipment for the
Monday 29 following day. Everyone will
November – Tuesday
then be flown to the huts,
7 December 2021
offering spectacular views
of the Hollyford area.
Volunteers will work alongside DOC rangers to undertake
tasks such as hut cleaning, structure maintenance, track
maintenance and trimming back vegetation.
There may also be the opportunity to stay at Big Bay Hut
and carry out work on the hut and surrounding area.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium to high.
ACCOMMODATION: The first night will be spent at the local
holiday park in Te Anau (this will be organised for the group).
The remainder of the trip will be based at various huts along
the Hollyford Track.
Photo: Shellie Evans
32 3317 18
Photo: Keri Tuna Photo: Thomas Wright
Southland – backcountry track Southland – preservation
maintenance of historic relics
This is a great chance to explore a couple of Southland’s This is a wonderful opportunity to discover several of
backcountry tracks, including the Aparima River Track and Southland’s historic relics and help to preserve them for
Black Gully in the Blue Mountains. future generations. Volunteers will be based in Invercargill
Tasks will include clearing fallen trees, clearing vegetation for the week and will travel to multiple locations around
using scrub bars and hedge trimmers, and re-marking the Southland, during which time they will get to explore
tracks using orange poles and triangles. the gold mining relics in Longwood Forest, the hauler in
Waipohatu Recreation Area, the bucket dredge at Waipapa
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Point, the coastal warning system (radar) on top of
SOUTHLAND Medium–high. Backcountry Bluff Hill/Motupōhue and the Gunpit Coastal Defence
tramping experience is Camp in Bluff.
3 volunteers for 5 days recommended as the
Tasks will include clearing vegetation and applying the
terrain can be uneven,
Monday 24 January – metal preservative ‘Ensis oil’ to all of the relics, which will
muddy and steep in places.
Friday 28 January 2022 help to prevent further deterioration.
Volunteers must be able
to carry personal gear and FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL:
work equipment for long periods of time. SOUTHLAND Medium. Most sites are easily
ACCOMMODATION: This will be confirmed with the accessible, but on one day
4 volunteers for 5 days volunteers will be required to
successful applicants.
walk for 2–3 hours in the bush
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Volunteers will be Monday 14 February –
on relatively flat terrain.
picked up from their accommodation at 8.30 am each morning, Friday 18 February 2022
ACCOMMODATION: This
starting from Monday 24 January. Volunteers will be returned to
their accommodation around 4.00 pm each day, and the activity will be confirmed with the
will finish on Friday 28 January. successful applicants.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $200
per person. workshop (at the rear of Marshall Industries), 193 Bond Street,
Invercargill at 8.30 am on Monday 14 February. Volunteers will
be returned to the same location at around 4.00 pm on Friday
18 February.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $200
per person.
34 3519 20
Photo: DOC Photo: DOC
Stewart Island/Rakiura – historic Fiordland – lakeside hut
sawmilling site maintenance maintenance
The Maori Beach sawmilling operation was established in This is an amazing opportunity to explore Fiordland’s
1913 and was the last mill to close on Rakiura in 1931. The beautiful lakes. Volunteers will carry out maintenance on
mill was located just behind Maori Beach and the remains of huts around two or three lakes in Fiordland. The lakes that
the boiler and steam engine are still on site today. There is may be visited include Lake Manapouri, Lake Te Anau, Lake
also a set of log haulers on Maori Beach Hill. This is a great Hauroko or Monowai Lake.
opportunity to help maintain these historic sites and explore Tasks include cleaning, small building repairs, painting,
the sandy beaches in the harbour of Port William. removing rubbish and clearing vegetation.
Volunteers will help carry
Rakiura Track out annual maintenance FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium.
STEWART ISLAND/RAKIURA Monowai and Volunteers must be agile and
on the machinery at the Hauroko lakes
Maori Beach sawmilling capable of getting in and out of
4 volunteers for 5 days FIORDLAND
site, and on the two NATIONAL PARK small boats confidently. They
must also be able to carry
Monday 14 February – historic haulers on Maori
3 volunteers for 5 days personal gear and lots of heavy
Friday 18 February 2022 Beach Hill. Tasks include
work equipment from the beach
cutting back vegetation,
Monday 7 March – landings to the huts.
chipping and scraping rust off the machinery, and then Friday 11 March 2022
applying metal preservative (Ensis oil) to help slow the ACCOMMODATION: Basic
deterioration of these important artefacts. backcountry huts. Volunteers are
welcome to bring their own tents if they prefer more privacy.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: High. Volunteers must be agile and
capable of getting in and out of a small boat confidently. PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
Volunteers must also be able to walk for extended periods up workshop, 19 Caswell Road, Te Anau at 9.00 am on Monday
to the worksite each day (approx. 2 hours) while carrying heavy 7 March. Volunteers will be returned to the same location in the
tools and equipment. early afternoon on Friday 11 March.
ACCOMMODATION: Tents at Maori Beach Campsite. CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $125
per person.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura on
Monday 14 February at 8.30 am, returning to the same location
around 3.00 pm on Friday 18 February.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There is
no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to make
their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/Rakiura.
36 3721 22
Photo: DOC Photo: DOC
Port Pegasus/Pikihatiti – historic Milford Road – historic
tin-mining site maintenance maintenance
This activity is situated in a remote area of the Rakiura This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Milford Sound/
National Park on Stewart Island/Rakiura and involves Piopiotahi while helping with a range of work along the
maintaining many late-19th-century tin-mining sites Milford Road and maintaining local walks and historic
in the area. sites around the sound. Tasks include painting, clearing
Tasks include track clearance, drainage work, pulling vegetation, small building repairs and historic maintenance.
seedlings in a significant area of ground-sluiced tailings, FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Low.
restoration work on the hydraulic sluicing guns and Milford Sound/ This trip is suitable for people
historic site monitoring. Piopiotahi and who are less active but can
Milford Road
FIORDLAND still walk for 1–2 hours without
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Very high.
Port Pegasus/Pikihatiti NATIONAL PARK a pack.
Volunteers must have a current first
STEWART ISLAND/ ACCOMMODATION: DOC staff
RAKIURA aid certificate. This activity involves 4 volunteers for 5 days
at least 3 hours tramping every day. quarters at Knobs Flat (on the
2 volunteers for The work is arduous – volunteers Monday 14 March – Milford Road) and Milford Sound.
10 days must be comfortable doing physical Friday 18 March 2022 Both houses have bunkbeds, a
activity for 8 hours per day. kitchen, a fire and a hot shower
Monday 7 March – – as well as great views!
Wednesday 16 ACCOMMODATION: Onboard the
Southern Winds DOC vessel, or PICK UP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
March 2022
basic facilities at Port Pegasus workshop, 19 Caswell Road, Te Anau at 9.00 am on Monday
Hunters Hut. 14 March. Volunteers will be returned to the same location at
4.00 pm on Friday 18 March.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Volunteers will
meet outside the Real Journeys Ferry Terminal in Bluff at CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $100
10.00 am on Monday 7 March, where they will be collected by per person.
either the DOC Southern Winds vessel or the Hananui. Volunteers
will be returned to Bluff after 2.00 pm on Wednesday 16 March.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $350
per person.
38 3923
Photo: Ashleigh Morrow
Burwood Takahē Centre
Volunteering at the Burwood Takahē Centre will provide you ACCOMMODATION: Shared accommodation in a fully furnished
with the opportunity to contribute to the Takahē Recovery cottage at the Burwood Takahē Centre. Hot showers, laundry
Programme while also learning about this threatened facilities, kitchen appliances and equipment are provided.
species, DOC’s captive breeding programme and the PICK UP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the
challenges the birds face. A major highlight is viewing Burwood Takahē Centre at 9.00 am on Monday 4 April.
takahē up close in their natural environment and learning The address will be given to successful applicants.
about the conservation management techniques the
If you do not have your own vehicle, please advise the trip leader
Recovery Team is employing to help bring this species back
and a pickup from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in
from the brink of extinction.
Te Anau can be arranged for 8.30 am.
Volunteers will work with DOC rangers at the Burwood CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: There
Takahē Centre, carrying out a variety of tasks to help keep is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to
the takahē safe and healthy. Tasks will include weekly provide their own transport to Burwood and food for the week.
feeding, checking and re-baiting the trapping network in
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The nearest town with groceries
and around the pens, as well as other general maintenance.
and supplies is a 30-minute drive away in Te Anau. There are
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: High. no public transport options, so having your own vehicle is
Burwood Bush This activity involves physical highly recommended.
SOUTHLAND work outdoors for 6–8 hours
per day on uneven terrain.
4 volunteers for 5 days
Also, good hand strength is
Monday 4 April – required when working with traps,
Friday 8 April 2022 prior experience is recommended.
Photo: DOC
40 41Other volunteer
opportunities
24
Photo: Rachael Egerton
Port Craig Hut and South Coast
Track – maintenance
The Port Craig area has an amazing story to tell, with many
relics remaining today. On a clear day, the coastal and
mountain views are breathtaking.
The first afternoon will consist of a health and safety briefing
for all volunteers, after which the group will help arrange
food and equipment for the following day. Volunteers will
then be in for a spectacular treat as the group will be flown
to and from Port Craig by helicopter.
Tasks will include track work, clearing vegetation and minor
structure maintenance. There will also be time to explore
this wonderful part of southern Fiordland.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium
FIORDLAND NATIONAL to high. Extended periods of time
PARK
may be spent using a scrub bar.
6 volunteers for 9 days ACCOMMODATION: The first
night will be spent at the local
Tuesday 7 June – holiday park in Te Anau, (this
Tuesday 14 June 2022 will be organised for the group).
The remainder of the trip will be
based at the Port Craig School Hut.
PICKUP/DROP-OFF LOCATION AND TIMES: Meet at the DOC
workshop, 19 Caswell Road, Te Anau at 9.00 am on Tuesday
7 June. Volunteers will be returned to the same location in the
early afternoon on Tuesday 14 June.
CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS FOOD AND TRANSPORT: $300
per person.
42 Photo: Sabine Bernert 43Photo: Dawn Patterson Photo: DOC
Bluff Hill/Motupōhue Coal Island/Te Puka Hereka
Environment Trust The South West New Zealand
Endangered Species Charitable
Bluff is a town and seaport that is situated
Trust was established in
30 km south of Invercargill. The Bluff/
2004 and has members with
Motupōhue is culturally, recreationally and Coal Island,
Preservation Inlet private, government and iwi
ecologically important, and one of the last
FIORDLAND interests, and a close working
BLUFF populated places in New Zealand where the NATIONAL PARK relationship with DOC.
forest meets the sea.
There will be In 2005, the Trust developed
The Bluff Hill/Motupōhue Environment Trust is dedicated
numerous trips and implemented a plan to
to the restoration and protection of the natural environment
throughout the year rid Coal Island of red deer,
on and around Motupōhue. It does this through pest control,
stoats and mice. With the
revegetation, species translocation, education and raising
initial eradication now complete, it is essential that work
public awareness. The Trust aims to provide an environment
continues to keep the island pest free so that it can flourish
where native birds, plants and invertebrates thrive – not just
and to allow the introduction of endangered native birds,
survive – on and around Motupōhue.
invertebrates, lizards and plants. To help achieve this,
Volunteer opportunities include working control lines – volunteers are needed to help conduct several trap checks
clearing overgrown vegetation, rebaiting stations and throughout the year.
cleaning out traps – on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly
basis. You can be a solo worker or put a team together TO REGISTER/FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
and alternate work periods. This work takes 2–4 hours Visit the Trust’s website and Facebook page at
depending on the control line. An experienced line worker www.coalisland.co.nz and www.facebook.com/tepukahereka.
will train you on your first day on your line, and basic tools coalisland
and equipment will be provided.
This is a great chance to get fresh air and exercise while
enjoying bird song and experiencing the satisfaction of
catching pests in our traps.
The Trust relies on volunteers to run its projects and is
always keen to welcome new people.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Medium to high.
TO REGISTER/FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Visit the Trust’s website and Facebook page at
www.bluffenvirotrust.org and www.facebook.com/BHMET
44 45Photo: Karen Connor Photo: Ngāi Tahu Tourism
Coastal Otago Hollyford Conservation Trust –
Conservation groups around Dunedin and the coastal Otago Te Roopu Manaaki o Whakatipu
area are keen to hear from new volunteers.
Waitai
Find out about the latest news and events from Martins Bay lies at the end of
Conservation Volunteers Coastal Otago on Facebook the Hollyford valley in Northern
www.facebook.com/Conservationvolunteerscoastalotago Fiordland, just north of Milford
Sound. Known as a ‘biodiversity
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: See the
DUNEDIN
hotspot’, the area has a range of
bimonthly conservation newsletter produced
landscapes, habitats, flora and
by the DOC Dunedin Office, which is
fauna – both marine and terrestrial –
available online at www.doc.govt.nz/otagovolunteers
unparalleled anywhere in Aotearoa.
FIORDLAND The Hollyford Conservation Trust,
NATIONAL PARK established in 2014, aims to protect,
enhance and restore the native flora
and fauna of the Lower Hollyford valley through intensive
pest control over a 2,600 ha area. The Trust undertakes
regular stoat trap checks and bait station work to supress
rats, stoats and possums to low levels. This has resulted in an
incredible return of birdlife to the valley in the five years the
Trust has been operating.
The Trust welcomes volunteers to help out with vegetation
clearing/track maintenance on our network of over 200 km of
lightly marked bait station and trapping lines, as well as other
projects as they arise such as replacing traps, weed control,
bait station work and general maintenance. Volunteers must
have a high level of fitness and be familiar with backcountry
travel. Preference is given to volunteers with track cutting
experience.
This is an amazing opportunity to visit a remote and beautiful
part of Fiordland and contribute to a successful predator
control project.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Moderate to high. Volunteers should
also have basic bush-navigation skills.
ACCOMMODATION: Provided at Martins Bay.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Visit www.hollyfordconservationtrust.org.nz or email
info@hollyfordconservationtrust.org.nz
46 47Photo: Jake Osborne Photo: DOC
Kākāpō Recovery Programme Mamaku Point
The kākāpō is a critically Conservation Trust
CODFISH ISLAND/ endangered flightless parrot, now
WHENUA HOU, This Trust is guardian of the
found only on remote predator-
LITTLE BARRIER Mamaku Point Conservation
ISLAND/HAUTURU free islands around New Zealand.
Reserve, an 18-year-old
O TOI AND Every year, countless people from
ANCHOR ISLAND ecological restoration project
around the world give their time
that encompasses the entire
and energy to save these birds
STEWART peninsula beyond the Lee Bay
from extinction. During the breeding season, the Kākāpō ISLAND/RAKIURA and Horseshoe Bay beaches on
Recovery team needs assistance with supplementary feed-
Stewart Island/Rakiura. The 158-
out, cooking meals for staff and other volunteers based on
ha reserve includes ancient native podocarp forest and areas
the islands, and a variety of other tasks and opportunities.
that were previously grazed as farmland. It is protected by
If you are interested in volunteering or want to find out more a 2.1-km-long predator-proof fence that protects more than
about these truly amazing parrots and the Kākāpō Recovery 125 species of native birds, plants and invertebrates from
Programme, visit: www.kakaporecovery.org.nz invasive predators.
The Trust welcomes local or visiting volunteers to help with
a range of projects, such as track clearance, weed control,
fence maintenance, replanting and restoration of the old
school camp.
FITNESS/SKILL LEVEL: Moderate. Volunteers should have a
moderate level of fitness and basic bush navigation skills.
FOOD: Volunteers will need to provide their own food (which
may be prepared in the reserve’s kitchen facility).
ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSPORT: Volunteers who are
visiting the island will be provided with accommodation within
the reserve, as well as transport to and from the ferry/flight
terminal.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit www.mamakupoint.nz or
contact Antony – phone 021 949 960 or email
antony@mamakupoint.nz
48 49Photo: DOC Photo: DOC
Omaui Landcare Charitable Trust Orokonui Living Legends
On New Zealand’s south coast, The Orokonui Scenic Reserve
OMAUI SCENIC approximately 25 minutes southwest Orokonui Scenic is a 28-ha tidal estuary at the
RESERVE Reserve, Waitati
of Invercargill, lies the beautiful NORTH OTAGO
base of Orokonui valley and the
Omaui Scenic Reserve. The Omaui southern reach of Blueskin Bay.
Landcare Charitable Trust is a small and dedicated pest- Regular working It is important for whitebait and
control group made up of local residents and people from days take place wading birds and is a peaceful
Invercargill and beyond. The Trust is currently restoring the throughout the year. recreation area for the residents
ecosystem at Omaui to provide a place where native species of Waitati.
are not only surviving but thriving! Living Legends aims to transform the low-lying rank pasture
The Trust is always keen to welcome new volunteers, so into a thriving natural wetland, much like it might have been
please come and lend a hand with renewing baits and gas more than 150 years ago. By establishing and growing native
packs in our network of Goodnature A24 traps during plantings, the restored habitat at Orokonui Scenic Reserve
August and February. This is a great opportunity to make a will link the Orokonui Ecosanctuary (307 ha of 100-year-old
difference while getting fresh air and exercise and enjoying regenerating forest) with Blueskin Bay to create a single
the stunning views. ‘mountains to sea’ ecosystem of indigenous vegetation that
provides foraging habitat for Orokonui birds.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit the Trust’s website at
www.omauilandcarecharitabletrust.co.nz or contact John Collins Workdays take place occasionally on Sundays from
– phone 022 635 1224 or email omauilandcaregroup@gmail.com September to May, starting at 10.00 am and finishing at
12.00 pm. There are no workdays from June to August.
TRANSPORT: Transport is available from the Otago University
Bookshop, 378 Great King Street, North Dunedin at 9.40 am –
please book a seat with the organiser. Alternatively, volunteers
can meet at Waitati at 10.00 am. Volunteers will be emailed
prior to each workday advising which site in Waitati they will be
working at.
TO REGISTER / FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Please phone the
DOC Dunedin Office on 03 477 0677. For further information, visit
www.doc.govt.nz/otagovolunteers
50 51Photo: DOC Photo: Viv Shaw
Otatara Landcare Group Pomona Island Charitable Trust
Since 2000, the Otatara Landcare This Trust aims to maintain
Group, along with many volunteers, Pomona Island in Lake
has put a lot of time into restoring Manapouri as a predator-free
a 14-ha area of pasture grass that is sanctuary where native bird
INVERCARGILL
located between two remnants of species can thrive. Home
nationally significant native tōtara to the critically endangered
forest. To date, the Bushy Point Restoration Project has seen LAKE MANAPOURI Haast tokoeka, as well as the
30,000 native plants being planted in this magnificent area. yellowhead/mohua, South Island
You can join this community effort for a big planting day on robin, kea and New Zealand falcon/kārearea, Pomona Island
Saturday 14 September 2019. is an accessible location for visitors to see, hear and learn
about the flora and fauna that are native to Fiordland.
The Landcare Group also organises predator trapping over
90 hectares around Bushy Point as part of the Otatara Volunteers undertake regular trap checks to keep the island
Pestbusters programme. free of introduced predators.
There are often opportunities to volunteer at this site and TO REGISTER / FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit the Trust’s
any help you can give is welcomed. website and Facebook page at www.pomona-island.org.nz and
www.facebook.com/pomonarona
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit www.otataralandcare.org.nz
or contact Chris Rance on 03 213 1161, or Barry Smith If you would like to be added to our volunteer email list and
on 03 213 1150. receive information on future working bees on Pomona,
please email pomona.rona@gmail.com
52 53Photo: DOC Photo: Willy Gamble
Southland Community Nursery Stewart Island/Rakiura
and Education Centre Community and Environment
The Southland Community Nursery at Trust (SIRCET)
Otatara near Invercargill gives volunteers
SIRCET has been carrying
the chance to grow their own locally sourced
out pest control and habitat
native plants for conservation activities.
restoration in a 210-ha area on
Training days for plant propagation and a the edge of Oban township for the
wide range of nature-related workshops are past 19 years. It maintains lines
OTATARA
available throughout the year. of rat and possum traps, controls
Volunteers can also lend a hand in the nursery or assist STEWART invasive weeds, maintains a
with school visits to the Education Centre on site. ISLAND / RAKIURA native planting restoration site at
Lonnekers Beach/Lee Bay and has
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: a community native plant nursery. SIRCET’s trapping efforts
Visit www.southlandcommunitynursery.org.nz or contact have significantly reduced pest numbers, allowing native
Chris Rance – phone 03 213 1161 or email birds to flourish, while the nursery produces native plants
rances@southlandcommunitynursery.org.nz for planting sites and to enhance local gardens, providing
habitat for native birds and invertebrates.
The Trust relies heavily on volunteers and has a variety
of jobs to suit all fitness levels, including nursery work,
trap construction, trap checks and monitoring, and track
maintenance. Volunteers are welcome to help out for a few
days or a few months.
ACCOMMODATION: This may be available.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit the SIRCET website at
www.sircet.org.nz or contact SIRCET – phone 0204 167 4160
or email pest-manager@sircet.org.nz
54 55Photo: Willy Gamble Photo: Wakatipu Reforestation Trust
Stewart Island Community Wakatipu Reforestation Trust
Native Plant Nursery This Trust works with the community
to grow and plant native plants,
The Stewart Island Community
STEWART ISLAND / including threatened species,
Native Plant Nursery is a
RAKIURA throughout the Wakatipu Basin
great resource for the local
near Queenstown. This creates
community, propagating eco-
wildlife corridors that attract native
sourced native species to replace weeds, and helping with
birds and insects back to the basin,
restoration activities around the township and in Rakiura
significantly enhancing the area’s
National Park. WAKATIPU/ biodiversity. The dryland woodlands
The nursery produces native plants for planting sites and to QUEENSTOWN
that w once prolific in the basin are
enhance local gardens, providing habitat for native birds and currently one of the most threatened
invertebrates. Plants are also available to local residents for and least protected ecosystems in New Zealand.
a donation. The nursery relies heavily on volunteer support,
The Trust welcomes volunteers to help out at the nursery
with community members and visiting school groups giving
every Wednesday and on community planting days
their time to propagate and raise seedlings.
throughout autumn and spring. All public planting
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: If you are visiting Stewart Island/ days are advertised on the Trust’s Facebook page at
Rakiura and would like to help, contact SIRCET – www.facebook.com/wrtqt.org.nz where you can also sign
phone 0204 167 416 or email pest-manager@sircet.org.nz up for its e-newsletter.
The Trust also supports community groups at their own
planting sites by providing plants and expertise.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit www.wrtqt.org.nz
or contact the volunteer coordinator – email
volunteer@wrtqt.org.nz
56 57You can also read
