About the Program
OPEN NOW for New Zealand residents! Borders are closed to international arrivals.
This varied and important conservation program works in parks and sanctuaries across the Wellington region to help protect precious natural places and their inhabitants. Volunteers on this program could work on a number of projects in different locations, dependent on need at the time. From a project aiming to plant 100,000 native trees in inner-city Wellington parks to restoring wetlands and working in wildlife sanctuaries on predator control, all these projects play an essential role in protecting and enhancing the Wellington region’s unique natural heritage. Sanctuaries play an absolutely vital role in protecting and conserving New Zealand’s unique biodiversity and animal species. By creating a pest-free environment, and re-introducing species into protected spaces, sanctuaries strive to re-create a landscape that pre-dates the arrival of pests. Volunteers on this program can work within sanctuaries on projects to protect native species and regenerate native forest and wetland. New Zealand has many native species of birds that are in grave danger of extinction, along with giant snails, frogs, lizards and fish. Volunteers will also work on replanting projects to restore native bush areas which pests have. From working with the most threatened species, to assisting in environmental restoration, volunteers make a huge difference on this program.
Goals of this Project:
- Help to protect animals in danger of extinction
- Preserve native forest areas and national parks
- Create welcoming green spaces within inner-city parks
- Enable inter-cultural exchange between all parties and teach international visitors more about environmental practices and New Zealand
How You Can Help
Volunteers on this crucial program will learn a huge amount about conservation practices and play an important role in conserving the Wellington region’s natural environment. Days are likely to be varied, working on any number of essential projects in reserves and sanctuaries, from track construction and maintenance, interpretive signage, fencing, weed control, revegetation activities and other practical actions in line with park management plans. Volunteers may also work on wildlife surveys and support specialized species programs such as captive breeding programs, radio tracking and species release activities as well as predator control initiatives. Volunteers makes practical contributions to a sustainable future for threatened species, working with recovery experts, following scientifically-validated plans and in so doing make a meaningful contribution to biodiversity preservation of this region. Working in a team of up to 10 other international volunteers, teams work alongside local communities, environmental groups, universities and conservation experts on well-planned and managed, safe, valid and essential projects. Full training is given by project team leaders.
Volunteers will contribute in a number of ways and on any number on environmental or wildlife projects and can expect to undertake the following tasks:
- Work in a wildlife sanctuary on predator control initiatives
- Tree planting
- Walking trail construction
- Wildlife surveys
- Seed collection
- Weed control
- Heritage restoration
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to give their time and energy to help protect the natural environment of New Zealand. This 'hands-on' project is best suited to those who are either pursuing a career in conservation/environmental studies, or who simply wish to explore an interest in this field. However, the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by your local project leader. Importantly though, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Resume
Project Location
This project takes place in New Zealand's capital city, Wellington. Situated at the base of the North Island Wellington is renowned for its culture, hip cafes and restaurants and heritage attractions.
In and around the city nature abounds with regional and national parks, an eco-sanctuary, impressive coastlines and beaches, native bush, farmland and flora and fauna in all it's glory.
Famous for its stunning landscapes, endemic flora and fauna, impressive topography and crystal clear Pacific Ocean waters, New Zealand offers a vast array of activities for locals and international visitors alike and is an environmental jewel well worth our efforts to preserve.
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round and programs start every FRIDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
Volunteers fly into Wellington International Airport and take a short 10 min taxi ride to the Volunteer House.
The local team provide a comprehensive orientation to prepare volunteers for the Conservation Experience ahead. After orientation and over the weekend there is ample opportunity to meet the other volunteers, rest and relax and perhaps enjoy some independent local sightseeing.
The Team Leader will provide pick-up from the accommodation at around 8am Monday morning.
Detailed inductions take place on the project site, conducted by the Team Leader.
- Arrival Day: FRIDAY, prior to 11am
- Departure Day: FRIDAY
- Arrival Airport: Wellington International Airport, Wellington, New Zealand (WLG)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers are accommodated in a heritage listed house in Wellington's Melrose district. Situated atop a hill and within beautiful gardens the site affords expansive beach and mountains views. Located within walking distance of surf beaches and local shops and a short bus ride into the central city, it offers is an excellent base from which to explore Wellington and surrounds.
Accommodation is shared and volunteers should bring their own sleeping bag. The program fee covers accommodation from the Friday of arrival until the Thursday preceding the final day volunteering. Volunteers should fly out Friday evening or arrange their own accommodation that night.
All the usual amenities are provided including western-style bathrooms, hot showers, laundry facilities (either on-site or nearby), kitchen facilities, and communal areas for relaxing. Wi-Fi may not always be available in remote locations.
Three meals per day are included in the program fee. Breakfast will typically be self-serve cereals, bread or toast and condiments. Lunch is prepared by volunteers with ingredients provided and is likely to be sandwiches and fruit. Volunteers are also involved in preparing dinner which may include pasta, roasts and vegetarian dishes. Fresh, local cuisine after a hard day’s work – nothing tastes better!
Fees
That’s just USD 56 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.