East Ruggedy panorama.
Stewart Island/Rakiura – long term volunteer heritage and visitor team
October 2026 - March 2027: This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, be a part of an awesome team and visit many backcountry sites around beautiful Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Project number: 3
Location: Stewart Island/Rakiura

Dates

1 volunteer for 6 months or 2 volunteers for 3 months each (multiple trips during this time)

October 2026 - March 2027

Description

This is a great opportunity to learn new skills and gain experience working along side the Heritage and Visitor Team on Stewart Island/Rakiura. Over the busy summer months volunteers may assist with track, hut and heritage maintenance around the island, aswell as hut ranger duties on the Rakiura Track and work on Ulva Island. 

What to expect

Fitness/skill level

High fitness level. Volunteers must be willing to work in all weather conditions and have excellent communication skills, a willingness to learn, and an interest in conservation. Please list on your application your reason for applying, any previous experience or skills relevant to the volunteer role (eg first aid certificate, chemical use or growsafe certificate, working in small teams or remote locations, GPS use) and the months you are available.  

Accommodation

During field trips a variety of accommodation may be used including camping in tents, or staying in backcountry huts. Shared accommodation in a DOC house will be provided while based in Oban.  

Pickup/drop-off location and times

Meet at the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura. Dates and times will be confirmed with the successful applicants.

Contribution towards food and transport

There is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to make their own travel arrangements to and from Stewart Island/Rakiura. Transport to field sites, food during field trips and accommodation for the duration of your time on Stewart Island/Rakiura will be provided. 

How to apply

Full details on our volunteer programme and how to apply.

Contact

For questions or other volunteer opportunities in the area, contact:

Southland and Otago Volunteer Coordinator

DOC Customer Service Centre

Phone: 0800 275 362
Email: invercargill@doc.govt.nz
Address: Murihiku / Invercargill Office