Matiu/Somes Island volunteer opportunities
Introduction
Ongoing/dates vary: Located in Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington Harbour, Matiu/Somes Island Scientific and Historic Reserve is a tranquil retreat for wildlife and visitors.March – May volunteer ranger programme
Description
We are looking for volunteer rangers to assist with our mahi on Matiu Somes Island between March to May. A minimum commitment of 1 month (working Thursday – Monday) is required. Accommodation and a $100 weekly food voucher will be provided.
The focus of the work will be meeting and greeting boats, and leading guests to the island through a biosecurity check before giving a health and safety talk. You must be confident speaking in front of groups of up to 50 people at a time.
The remainder of your time will be spent assisting the island rangers maintain the island. These tasks will include: gardening, cleaning, mowing lawns, weed eating, track maintenance, sanding and painting, bait station checks, data entry and other tasks as they come up. You will be able to work alone unsupervised or in a small group.
What to expect
Fitness/skills required: You will need to be reasonably fit, enjoy working outdoors and confident dealing with members of the public. Having a driver’s licence will be an advantage but is not required.
As the motu is owned by Taranaki Whānui Ki Te Upoko O Te Ika a Māui, a general awareness of te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) and basic tikanga Māori is beneficial.
How to apply
To register your interest contact:
Matiu Somes Island team
Email: matiusomes@doc.govt.nz
Volunteer with Eastbourne Forest Rangers
Description
Each weekend and public holiday between Labour Weekend (October) and Easter, volunteer ranger services are provided by a team under the umbrella of the Eastbourne Forest Rangers group.
Two volunteer rangers will assist DOC staff with managing visitors to the island. Volunteer tasks include:
- meeting the ferries and supervising the biosecurity checks on visitors' bags
- briefing visitors on the rules, eg no smoking, location of toilets, staying on the tracks etc, and outlining the history and wildlife of the island.
- between ferry arrivals and departures, the volunteer rangers roam the island, helping visitors and enhancing the enjoyment of their visit.
- provision of guided tours for pre-booked groups.
What to expect
Fitness/skills required: Volunteers must be reasonably fit and should have an interest in natural and/or historic heritage. They must be confident dealing with members of the public.
Training will be provided and accommodation available if volunteers wish to stay overnight. Transport to the island is by East by West ferry. Fares paid for by DOC.
What to bring
How to apply
To register your interest contact:
Eastborne Forest Rangers volunteers
Email: matiuguiding@gmail.com
Contact us
For other general inquiries about volunteering with DOC on Matiu/Somes Island, contact:
Matiu rangers
Ph: +64 4 568 6555
Email: matiusomes@doc.govt.nz
