JOIN THE ISLAND TEAM

Be part of something real on Rotoroa Island

There are only a couple of dozen of us, so every volunteer genuinely counts. Help replant native bush, look after visitors, and keep the island's wildlife safe.

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Learn about the programme

OUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME

The island is shaped by the people who show up for it

The Rotoroa Island Trust offers a well-established volunteer programme for people who want to contribute to the restoration, care, and day-to-day running of the island. Volunteers are a valued, essential part of the team.

Ways to get involved

Regular volunteering

Come out at least one day a month. You'll pick up real conservation skills and get to know a good bunch of people. Free ferry travel for accepted regular volunteers.

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Public volunteer days

No experience needed. Turn up for a scheduled day, meet the team, and get stuck in. Follow us on social for upcoming dates.

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Corporate & group volunteering

Give your team a proper day out doing something useful: track clearing, planting, and grounds work. Eligible groups may get discounted ferry travel. Available March-September.

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Volunteer roles on Rotoroa Island

Visitor experience & kiosk

Welcome arrivals, run the kiosk, support events, share conservation messages. Busy October–March.

Guided walk guides

Lead groups of 4–15 visitors on set routes covering history and conservation. Full training and shadowing provided.

Biosecurity & rat pack

Maintain trap lines, check monitoring stations, and tackle invasive weeds like pampas grass and moth plant. Training included.

Tracks & roads

Maintain and improve walking tracks and access roads. Light construction; vehicles and tools involved. Full training provided.

Garden guardians

Mow, trim foliage, weed gardens and planting areas used by visitors and wildlife like takahē , weka, and kiwi.

General & admin

There is the possibility of remote admin work, as well as more general tasks. Volunteers are the first people we ask when extra help is needed.

WHAT YOU'LL RECEIVE

We invest in our volunteers

  • Ferry travel covered. Return ferry to Rotoroa for all accepted regular volunteers.
  • Accommodation available: Overnight accommodation on the island, subject to availability
  • Full training. Comprehensive induction and rolespecific training from day one.
  • A real community. A small team, so you'll be known by name rather than just a number
Apply now

READY TO GET INVOLVED?

Come and be a part of Rotoroa Island

Ready to apply, thinking about bringing your team, or have a question? We'd love to hear from you.

Our application form
Download programme info