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- Environmental Conservation in the North Island, New Zealand
Project Summary
Volunteer in New Zealand and get involved in vital environmental conservation projects. This project focuses on preserving and restoring New Zealand’s unique, natural beauty. Volunteers will take part in varied activities which may include environmental monitoring, heritage restoration, tree planting, endangered species protection and disaster relief to name some. This project will be enjoyed by all who have a love for the outdoors, who are environmentally concerned and up for a challenge. The North Island is one of 2 locations in New Zealand that volunteers can choose to work in, the second location being the South Island. Although the start location is Auckland, volunteers can choose to transfer directly to more rural locations around Hamilton, where the natural environment can be truly appreciated.
Why choose this project?
- Understand the impact of climate change and pollution and become a more responsible global citizen.
- Contribute to helping end habitat loss and the suffering of species as well as environmental degradation.
- Work as part of a volunteer team and discover the beauty of New Zealand North Island in a unique context.
Role of the volunteer
On this project, you will rotate every one to two weeks around different areas around the North Island. As a result, you will gain a well-rounded experience, giving you the opportunity to work on a variety of conservation activities and projects. Volunteers work in groups of 6 to 10 and are assigned projects upon arrival. Conservation work depends on seasonal conditions and conservation priorities at the time of your placement.
Examples of projects on the North Island include:
- Planting trees in locations like Tawharanui Regional Park as part of the ongoing restoration of this incredible landscape which has resulted in many endangered birds being able to be reintroduced including the rare bird and New Zealand icon, the flightless Kiwi.
- Improving habitat for rare birds and fish such as bittern, pateke and mudfish by planting and weeding around Lake Serpentine. This project focuses on restoring globally rare peat lakes in the Waikato area.
- Help boost native biodiversity and provide additional habitat for native birds by removing exotic weeds which threaten to swamp native plantings on the North Shore of Lucas Creek, Auckland
- Take part in track work to keep access to the interior open, exotic plant control, and, depending on the season, planting at the Hunua Ranges Regional Park. This project also involves habitat restoration for Dotterels, an endangered bird species, on shell banks at Duder Regional Park.
Skills Required
There are no specific skills required to participate in these projects but you must have a love for the outdoors. Volunteers should be prepared to live and work as a member of a team and a positive attitude is essential. We also advise that you have a reasonable level of fitness in order to take part in all activities.
REQUEST MORE INFO RESERVE YOUR PLACE
WHY JOIN THE PROJECT
To help counteract negative human impact on the environment
Work in a breathtaking location.
To become a responsible global citizen.
FEATURED VIDEO
PROJECT TESTIMONIALS


The Location
The North Island has plenty of rivers, volcanic regions, secluded spectacular beaches as well as tall forests, rainforests and rural landscapes. Projects take place in and around Auckland, nicknamed the ‘City of Sails’ as it lies between two picturesque harbours, surrounded by sandy beaches and beautiful islands. The city itself has plenty of parks and gardens to explore in free time, plus plenty of cafes and shops. Projects also take place across the North Island in and around Hamilton. This is the country’s largest inland city, set in the green and lush heart of ‘Lord of the Rings’ film country. Recently, projects have been taking place in Wellington, which is the capital of New Zealand. Much of your time will be spent at your project site, but if you build in some extra travel time then take the opportunity to explore the South Island where a world of adventure awaits!
Details & Costs
- Duration: 1+ weeks (4 weeks minimum is recommended)
- Cost: £733 / $1145 for 1 week
£1026 / $1602 for 2 weeks
£3334 / $521 per each extra week - Requirements: age 18+
- Location: various locations on the North Island, New Zealand
- Project activities: tree planting, walking trail construction, wildlife surveys, seed collection, weed control, conservation fencing, heritage restoration and disaster relief (varies by location and time of year)
- Working hours: Monday – Friday, 8am-4pm
- Project availability: projects start every Friday. Project closed for 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year.
- Arrival day: Friday before 11 AM
What is included
- Accommodation: shared rooms in caravans, hostels, bunk houses, shearer’s quarters or camping (tents are provided)
- Food: 3 per day and weekends. Volunteers help in the preparation of food.
- Training: orientation and training upon arrival
- Support: 24-hour support from on-site coordinator and project leaders
- Wildlife guidebook and map of location
- Certificate of appreciation; optional conservation volunteer certificate available (at additional cost if volunteers have done 40+ hours)
- Volunteer ID card with special offers and discounts
- All project-related travel
What is not included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Visas
- Airport pick up/drop off or travel to starting points.
- Any costs for COVID-19 PCR tests required pre-departure and in-country
Easy 4-step application process
APPLY ONLINE
Click here to apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.
TELEPHONE INTERVIEW
Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.
CONFIRMATION
Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.
GET PREPARED
When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.

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