Project number: 10
Location: Stewart Island/Rakiura

Dates

3 volunteers for 8 days

Tuesday 1 December to Tuesday 8 December 2026

Description

Volunteers are needed to help with the annual maintenance of huts around the coastline of Stewart Island/Rakiura. The focus will be on the huts around Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te Wera and/or the North West Circuit.

This is an ideal opportunity to visit the picturesque, rugged coastline of the island, while doing worthwhile work interspersed with bird watching, photography, hunting and/or fishing (permits required).

Tasks will include painting, a full interior clean down and light building repairs.

What to expect

Fitness/skill level

Medium to high fitness level. Volunteers must be agile and capable of getting in and out of a small boat confidently. They must also be able to carry personal gear and heavy (up to 15kg) work equipment from the beach landings to the huts.

Accommodation

A variety of basic backcountry huts.

Pickup/drop-off location and times

Meet at the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura at 8:30 am on Tuesday 1 December. Volunteers will be returned to the same location at around 3:00 pm on Tuesday 8 December.

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. They will also need to provide their own accommodation prior to and after the trip if required. During the activity transport to the various huts will be via boat and dingy.