Kawau Island volunteering
There are a few different types of volunteer opportunities on Kawau Island.

The 5 day programme during school holidays is suitable for Duke of Edinburgh Gold residential placements.

Mansion House Gardening Club

One Wednesday each month a dedicated group of regular volunteers help maintain the historic gardens at Mansion House.

Individual volunteers can join the group for just one day or come more often.

Tasks

You will get to work on a range of gardening activities.

2025 dates

  • 22 January

Dates and times may be subject to change due to weather or other circumstances.

What to bring

  • Tools are provided, but you may like to bring your own gardening gloves.
  • Lunch – you can also purchase food from the café during the summer months.

Transport

Carpool from Dairy Flat or meet at Sandspit Wharf. The garden volunteers will leave from Sandspit Wharf at 8 am and return around 4 pm or leave at 10.30 am and return around 5.10 pm. 

How to apply

Complete the Mansion House Gardening Club application.

Also, confirm your availability by the Wednesday before your volunteer day by emailing rvis@doc.govt.nz

We'll confirm if we have a place for you.

5-day volunteer programme

Tasks

Assist with the maintenance of the Kawau Island Historic Reserve and the exterior of Mansion House.

Tasks include:

  • track maintenance
  • spreading gravel
  • clearing drains
  • tidying and pruning vegetation from paths and tracks
  • washing or painting buildings or structures
  • beach clean-ups.

2025 dates

  • 16 - 20 April
  • 21- 25 April
  • 30 June - 4 July
  • 9 - 13 July
  • 22 - 26 September
  • 1- 5 December

*School holidays to suit DOE (Duke of Edinburgh) students. 

What to expect

We're looking for volunteers with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. A low-medium level of fitness is acceptable, but medium-high will ensure a more enjoyable experience.

Expect a minimum of 6 hours work each day. This leaves free time to swim, fish, and explore.

Transport: Return ferry fare of $40.00 – this is a discounted rate for volunteers

Experience required: If you have gardening, building, or other practical skills and experience let us know and we will tailor tasks to suit if possible.

What to bring: A full gear list will be provided once you have booked a placement.

How to apply

Apply online for 5-day volunteer programme

Duke of Edinburgh student applicants should add the name of their school in the additional comments on the application form.