Otago Youth Development Programme
Programme members collecting data in
the field
This is a quarterly, 10-week, free training and development course for 10 people, aged 16 to 24. They should have an interest in conservation, the outdoors and working with community groups. Participants will gain practical experience and work skills, increase self-awareness and enhance their personal development - all from trying new things and having fun.
Based in Dunedin the training course is integrated into DOC's Otago Conservancy work programmes. As a result programme members are involved in a wide range of conservation projects, get to visit some special places, and work alongside skilled and experienced rangers.
Work experience; planting pikāo on
the Otago coast
Work experience
Includes wildlife surveys, habitat restoration, track building and maintenance, species conservation, planting and nursery work, historic restoration, fencing and predator and weed control. All this with DOC staff and community groups in a wide range of environments.
Skills and self development
There are many educational and personal development opportunities: outdoor first aid, te reo Māori (including a marae stay), public speaking, leadership, problem solving and CV compilation. Field skills may include: using radio and GPS equipment, chainsaw training, marine mammal rescue, risk management and organisational skills, ecological and conservation skills.
Recreation
Programme members, 2008,
kayaking in the Catlins
Activities can include tramping, rock climbing,and abseiling, swimming, kayaking, surfing, mountain biking, navigation, bush survival, camping and outdoor skills training. The course includes day trips from Dunedin, and week-long activities at more distant locations.
General
This programme is funded by the Ministry of Youth Development's Services for Young People Programme and managed by DOC's Coastal Otago Area Office.
Applying
Applications are considered throughout the year. They are followed by a short interview process before each course.
For more information about the Youth Development Programme in Otago, and how you can apply, please contact:
Shem Smith
Youth Development Programme Supervisor
Coastal Otago Area Office
PO Box 5244
Dunedin
Ph +64 3 474 6912 or +64 27 227 5031
ssmith@doc.govt.nz