Introduction

13 - 17 March 2025: Volunteers will work with DOC rangers at the Burwood Takahē Centre, carrying out a variety of tasks to help keep the takahē safe and healthy.

Project number: 22
Location: Burwood Bush, Southland

Dates

4 volunteers for 5 days

Sunday 13 March to Thursday 17 March 2025

Description

Volunteering at the Burwood Takahē Centre will provide you with the opportunity to contribute to the Takahē Recovery Programme while also learning about this threatened species, DOC’s captive breeding programme and the challenges the birds face. A major highlight is viewing takahē up close in their natural environment and learning about the conservation management techniques the Recovery Team is employing to work towards the programme's goal of returning takahē to the wild.

Tasks will include weekly feeding, checking and re-baiting the trapping network in and around the pens, as well as other general maintenance.

What to expect

Fitness/skill level

High fitness level. This activity involves physical work outdoors for 6–8 hours per day on uneven terrain. Good hand strength is also required when working with traps, prior experience is recommended.

Accommodation

Shared accommodation in a fully furnished cottage at the Burwood Takahē Centre. Hot showers, laundry facilities, kitchen appliances and equipment are provided.

Pickup/drop-off location and times

Meet at the Burwood Takahē Centre, after 4.00 pm on Sunday 13 March, the address will be given to the successful applicants.

Contribution towards food and transport

There is no charge for this activity. However, volunteers will need to provide their own transport to Burwood and food for the week. The nearest town with groceries and supplies is a 30-minute drive away in Te Anau. There are no public transport options.

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

Murihiku / Invercargill Office
Phone:   0800 275 362
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   invercargill@doc.govt.nz
Address:   7th Floor
CUE on Don
33 Don Street
Invercargill 9810
Postal Address:   PO Box 743
Invercargill 9840
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