New Zealand - New Zealand Conservation Experience
Participate in important conservation work in beautiful New Zealand! Make new friends from around the world while learning about an amazing country and helping out practically with environmental conservation.
Fast Facts
| Location of Project | Throughout New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Project Length | Min 2 week - Max 8 weeks |
| Arrival Airport | Any major airport |
| Number of Participants | Up to 10 volunteers |
| Age | 18 - 70 |
What's Included
| Accommodation | Caravans, hostels, shearer's quarters, bunkhouses, camping |
|---|---|
| Food | Supplied but you will need to help with cooking |
| Support | Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support |
| Transportation | Project-related transportation only |
| Promotion | Applicants that apply for 6 weeks or more receive a US$200 discount |
| Pre-Departure Kit | Full project details will be sent following registration |
| Orientation | All necessary training and introductions provided upon arrival |
| Travel Insurance | Comprehensive travel & health insurance with volunteer abroad coverage |
What's Not Included
Location
The project takes place in various locations around New Zealand. New Zealand offers a peaceful atmosphere, and a wide array of wildlife unique to the region. Projects based on the North Island depart from Auckland, while projects in the South depart from Christchurch.
About the Project
This project is perfect for nature lovers looking to explore New Zealand. The local organization boasts more than 2000 ongoing conservation projects throughout Australia and New Zealand, and is happy to welcome volunteers from around the world to assist their efforts. Each weekend, groups of 10 volunteers depart from meeting points in major cities in New Zealand to their project sites. Most projects include challenging physical work and provide both long lasting friendships, and central knowledge about wildlife in the region.
Volunteer Work and Contribution
The projects offer volunteers the opportunity to contribute in a practical way to conservation of the environment. The projects involves:
- Tree planting
- Erosion and salinity control
- Seed collection
- Construction and maintenance of walking tracks
- Endangered flora and fauna surveys
- Weed control
- Habitat restoration
- Heritage restoration
In order to facilitate the best and most varied experience, we encourage volunteers to commit to at least 3 weeks of volunteering.
Working hours and days: Volunteers generally spend one or two weeks at each project site. Project hours are generally from 8am to 4pm. Projects take place in both urban and rural areas. Be prepared for the weather - different parts of the country can be very hot or cold, so you'll need appropriate clothing (and sleeping bag) for the climate in the area you've chosen to visit.
Living Arrangements
Accommodations: vary each week, but include caravans, hostels, sharers' quarters, bunkhouses, and camping (tents are supplied). Bring a sleeping mat as well as your sleeping bag, and be prepared to share.
Food: supplied and everyone helps with cooking, cleaning, and washing up. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian or vegan can be catered for - just remember to let the project organizers know when you arrive.
Travel Highlights
Travel around New Zealand before or after your project and enjoy the impressive views and see the unique wildlife. The large cities in New Zealand offer various cuisines, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
Minimum Requirements
- Min age 18 - Max age 70
- Basic English
- Good physical fitness
- Love of the outdoors and interest in the environment
- Flexible attitude
