New Zealand Conservation

A relatively isolated island nation, New Zealand is famed for its delicate, diverse ecology. These same natural resources are often exploited to provide jobs and a better standard of living for the country’s human inhabitants. Many of the programs below promote a balanced usage of the New Zealand’s natural wildlife, and opportunities range from coral monitoring to animal tagging.

DOC Volunteers (www.doc.govt.nz). The Department of Conservation has many long- and short-term opportunities. Contact the local office of the area you wish to work in.
Eco-Adventure and Sustainable Living Programmes, Tararu Valley Sanctuary and Conservation Trust, P.O. Box 5, Thames 2815, NZ (☎07 868 8988; www.tararuvalley.org). Volunteers engage in projects aimed at protecting a section of the ancient Coromandel forest and teaching sustainable living practices. Programs range from 5 weeks to 2 years. Partial scholarships and academic credit available.
Greepeace (www.greenpeace.org). The international organization supports environmental, social, and political work on topics ranging from climate change to whaling.
New Zealand Dolphins (☎800-776-0188 or 978-461-0081; www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/wursig.html). Travelers monitor the behavior of dusky dolphins off the Kaikoura Peninsula and assess how tourism and fishing in the area are affecting their lifestyle. 2-week programs run Mar.-July and cost US$2750. Check the Earthwatch Institute website for other programs.
New Zealand Nature Program (☎04 569 9080; www.volunteer.org.nz/newzealand). Run by the Global Volunteer Network, this program provides several opportunities to assist with wildlife monitoring and research projects centered in Wellington. Programs last 2 weeks to 3 months. US$600-3600, not including airfare. Apply online.
New Zealand Trust for Nature Volunteers (www.conservationvolunteers.co.nz). Maintains a register of research-based ecology projects. Register online and search for volunteer opportunities.