Stewart Island/Rakiura – hut rangers

Project number: 8
Location: Port William/Potirepo and North Arm, Stewart Island/Rakiura

Dates

1–2 volunteers for 2 weeks per trip

• Trip A: November 2024
• Trip B: April 2025

Description

This is an excellent opportunity to experience the backcountry of Stewart Island/Rakiura. Hut rangers will be based at either Port William Hut or North Arm Hut on the Rakiura Track. This area has significant historical value and there is also a good chance of seeing kiwi in the wild, so make sure to bring your camera!

Tasks will include greeting visitors, checking hut tickets, pest control, track maintenance and cleaning hut facilities. Safety equipment will be supplied but volunteers are expected to bring their own boots, gaiters and rain gear.

What to expect

Fitness/skill level

Medium fitness level. Volunteers will be working 4–6 hours per day. They must be good with people, self-motivated, and willing to set and clear rat traps. Comprehensive training will be provided and volunteers must have an up-to-date first aid certificate.

Accommodation

Port William and North Arm have private hut warden quarters. Each hut has solar lighting and gas cooking facilities and can comfortably accommodate two people. This opportunity may suit a couple or two friends.

Pickup/drop-off location and times

Meet at the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre, Stewart Island/Rakiura. Dates and times will be confirmed with the successful applicants.

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 and will also need to provide their own food on their days off in Oban.

Reimbursement for food will be provided for one person while in the field – any partners or friends accompanying the volunteer must provide their own food.