Volunteers are needed at a native bird and wetland nature reserve in the Wellington region of New Zealand.

About the project

Wetland forest in New Zealand is rare – due to significant land modification during European settlement, swamps were drained to make way for agriculture. Lowland areas which contain these wetland forests are now extremely important to protect because they are the last remaining fragments of these types of forest. This project is a registered charity which began in the 1970s by acquiring the wetland forest block (approximately 14 hectares / 35 acres). Since then it has worked to protect and enhance the ecological value of the area. The reserve is open to the public, and also welcomes educational visits by school groups. The reserve has a kiwi bird nocturnal viewing house, tuatara (an endemic reptile, known as a living fossil because its ancestors lived amongst dinosaurs), and other wildlife species, either in captivity or in the wild.

About the placements

The project suits volunteers with an interest in ecological conservation, particularly with respect to wetlands and forests (although prior experience is not necessary). Activities undertaken include planting native trees and plants, maintaining park facilities, educational talks and visits, animal feeding and cleaning of enclosures, and meeting and greeting visitors to the reserve. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, understand spoken and written English, have no major health conditions that would affect their participation, and be willing to participate whatever the weather (rain or shine).

Candidates are required to cover the costs of their travel, travel insurance, and a nominal fee for placement costs. A commitment of at least one week is required, although longer placements (up to four weeks) are welcome. Start dates are flexible.

Full details about the project and fees can be found at: https://www.nature.org.nz/projects/new-zealand/nature-reserve/

Application process

Candidates can submit an online application (at no cost) at: https://www.nature.org.nz/apply/

Review of applications are completed within 2 days unless further information is required.

For more information, candidates can make contact at:
https://www.nature.org.nz/contact-us/