The Location:
The most populated of New Zealand’s 16 regions, Auckland is home to one-third of the country’s people. This diverse area, situated on North Island, is speckled with 49 volcanoes that have been dormant for some 600 years. Auckland is the county’s fastest growing region and features three magnificent harbors, 50 picturesque islands, and miles of lush, mystical forests. Stretching from the west coast beaches along the Tasman Sea to the sandy shore of the fierce Pacific Ocean, Auckland is both an economic epicenter and playground for an array of marine life.

The Situation:
An ever-growing population is severely affecting New Zealand’s ancient and unique environment, which has been preserved up to this point thanks mostly to the country’s geographic isolation as an island. However, as the population has grown, native species have been constantly cleared and coastal weeds have begun taking over. Now, immigrant species continue to thrive and ancient flora and fauna are in grave danger of becoming extinct.

What´s Being Done:
Conservation is something New Zealand takes very seriously. Many organizations aim to restore and preserve native animals and plants, water ecosystems, marine and coastal mammals, as well as historical sites. As a volunteer on the New Zealand Conservation Project, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in all these areas and become fully immersed in this country’s rich environmental history.

Airport and Orientation:
When you arrive on Saturday, you will be provided a two-night hostel stay that includes a continental breakfast each day. You will be given a detailed map and thorough directions on how to locate the Auckland office by means of public transportation or taxi. At the office on Monday, an orientation will cover your project location and details, safety, training, and other necessary information.

Transportation:
All transportation between the project sites is included. However, volunteers will be responsible for arranging all other transportation. Public transportation in New Zealand is safe, cheap, and reliable.

Accommodations:
Due to the nature of this project and its various locations, accommodations will vary from week to week. However, you can expect typical accommodations to include caravans, hostels, shearers’ quarters, bunkhouses, and camping (tents are supplied). This project includes a two-night hostel stay upon arrival with continental breakfasts and a sightseeing trip.

Meals:
During the project, you will be provided with three meals a day. Breakfast usually consists of cereal, bread or toast, and coffee or tea. Lunch is normally a self-made sandwich with fruit. In the evening, volunteers will help prepare a group meal that is typically pasta, roast, or a vegetarian alternative. Those who have dietary restrictions may be responsible for providing their own food. All volunteers are responsible for helping prepare meals and cleaning up accordingly.

In-Country Support:
We work directly with our partner organization to provide support during your time in New Zealand. You can expect help from team leaders, fellow volunteers, and additional staff members from our partner organization. We also provide a 24-hour cell phone number for emergencies.

Additional Activities and Excursions:
You will have the opportunity to enjoy local sightseeing before you travel to your first project (usually on a Saturday or Monday). Weekends are typically free, although volunteers on remote projects will occasionally complete a 10-day project and have a four-day weekend. Volunteers can participate in a number of area excursions, some of which may require an additional fee. Options for activities and excursions in Auckland include the following:

Dolphin and whale safaris or cruises in the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf.
Trips to the Hauraki Gulf Islands, which offer beaches and wine tours.
Bungee jumping from the Harbour Bridge.
Exploring Auckland's many parks, reserves and native bushlands.
Visiting the Auckland Museum.
Swimming and sea kayaking at Auckland's beaches including Mission Bay and St Helier's Bay.
Bicycling or rollerblading along the city’s waterfront.