Food, Lodging and Travel
Accommodation will vary due to the wide variation in the volunteer projects and locations available on the programme:
Auckland – A farm cottage in Ātiu Creek Regional Park, with bunk beds, a full bathroom, laundry and kitchen facilities.
Wellington – Truby King House in Truby King Park, with bunk beds, full bathroom, laundry and kitchen facilities.
Christchurch – Paterson House, in Halswell Quarry Park, Halswell. It has bunk beds, a full bathroom, laundry and kitchen facilities.
Punakaiki – At the local backpacker
Volunteers should bring a sleeping bag, and be prepared to share bedrooms and bathrooms.
All meals are provided. For breakfast, we supply cereals, bread or toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is normally a self-made sandwich and fruit; in the evening we enjoy a meal prepared by the group, typically something like pasta, roast or a vegetarian option. Volunteers help with the preparation of meals and cleaning up of dishes, plus some domestic duties as required. We rely on every volunteer to participate fully in the programme, and the evening meal is a popular part of the day. Don’t worry if you’re not a great cook as everyone can do something to help, even if it’s just chopping vegetables. Fresh (seasonal) produce, meat and vegetables are used as often as possible although this cannot be guaranteed every day, particularly on remote projects far from shops, so please make allowances. Dietary requirements, e.g. vegetarian, vegan or food allergies, can be catered for – please remember to let us know when you submit your application.
Requirements
You should be aged 18 or over, in good health and reasonably fit, flexible, self-motivated and prepared to take part to the best of your ability. All prospective volunteers should declare any medical conditions, allergies, dietary requirements, disabilities or existing injuries that may affect participation – our staff will discuss these with volunteers in a sensitive and confidential manner. You should be aware that volunteer projects are usually labour-intensive, and take place in both urban and rural areas. Be prepared to participate in all weather conditions. You’ll need to bring appropriate clothing for the weather. You will be shown how to use all tools and equipment safely before you start the project and there will always be a Team Leader with first aid training working on the project with you. Any essential safety equipment will be provided, and you will be shown how to use it.
Travel
You can select the location where you would like to start your volunteer project from, and we will provide details on getting to your specific meeting point to start your project. You will need to arrive at the location you have nominated by 11 am on a Friday. From here you will travel to different conservation projects throughout the State, Region or Territory that you have chosen.
