Image: Jack Mace | ©
Powell Hut.
Tararua Forest Park hut wardens
October - April: Volunteers are needed during peak times at several different huts in the Tararua Forest Park.

Dates

Hut wardens service the huts throughout the year although the busiest visitor period is through the summer and warmer months.

Description

Volunteer as a hut warden for Totara Flats, Powell, Jumbo and Atiwhakatu huts in the Tararua Forest Park.

Location

The huts are located in the Tararua Forest Park and are managed by the the DOC Masterton Office.

Hut details:

Tasks

  • Providing information to visitors
  • Hut pass/ticket compliance and recording
  • Minor hut maintenance
  • Cleaning of the facilities

What to expect

You must be able to carry out hut wardening duties on your own, and a good knowledge of the outdoors and Tararua Forest Park is desirable.

Fitness required: You need to be fit and healthy (able to carry own personal gear) and must be able to tramp up to 3 – 5 hours.

Skills required:

  • Good people skills
  • Current first aid certificate essential
  • Knowledge of VHF radio would be advantageous

Background checks and references will be required.

Safety procedures: Approved volunteers must comply with the DOC Health and Safety Policy, and arrive prepared with appropriate amounts of food and warm/water proof clothing and sturdy walking boots.

Orientation: Volunteers who are accepted will be required to attend an orientation briefing prior to the season start.

Accommodation: Warden’s quarters are available at each hut while volunteering.

Food and clothing: Hut wardens need to provide their own food, personal clothing and sleeping bag.

Transport: Hut wardens need to find their own way to and from the appropriate Park entrance.

How to apply

To apply complete the online hut warden registration form.

Safety checks

Everyone who applies for this position is subject to a DOC safety check and Ministry of Justice criminal record check. Information about these checks will be provided after you apply.

What happens after you apply

  1. All applications will be shortlisted by matching to role availability.
  2. We’ll send the shortlisted applicants the safety check form for you to complete.
  3. We’ll contact you about an interview time – the interview will be with a DOC staff member and it’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the role.
  4. We’ll talk to your referees.
  5. We’ll request a Ministry of Justice criminal record check – this takes around three days.
  6. DOC staff will assess all the material provided and decide on suitability.
  7. Once approved we will work with you to find dates that suit you and complete your induction.

DOC Customer Service Centre

Phone: 0800 275 362
Email: masterton@doc.govt.nz
Address: Whakaoriori / Masterton Office