Terms & Conditions for participating in the volunteer programme for kakapo recovery
As part of your registration, you must read, understand, and be prepared to adhere to the following Terms & Conditions. They are in place to protect kakapo, your safety and the safety of others.
Purpose of Volunteering
It is important to note that this is a working volunteer term of two weeks duration, which involves long hours of physical work. It should not be viewed as an opportunity to visit an island and see wildlife. Kakapo are rare, nocturnal and are not disturbed by people without reason – do not expect to see one during your stay.
Fitness level
A very good level of fitness is necessary for this work. The terrain on the island is rough and demanding. If it is found that you are unable to cope with the fitness requirements once on the island, you will be required to be flown off at your own expense.
Health Questionnaire
After being offered a position in the volunteer roster, but before being confirmed; you will be required to complete and send-in an in-depth health questionnaire.
Security check with NZ Customs
After being offered a position in the volunteer roster, but before being confirmed; a security check on your details will be completed with NZ Customs.
Quarantine Procedures
Disease is a very real and significant risk to the survival of kakapo on the islands. Strict quarantine measures are in place for any person going to the islands to work. If you are confirmed in the volunteer roster, you will need to read and comply with quarantine procedures which may include disinfecting your clothes and gear. You will need to make time for quarantine before your departure to the island.
People that own or work with birds pose an increased risk which will be carefully worked through with kakapo team staff.
Cancellations
Volunteer trips may need to be cancelled with very little notice - this mainly relates to the nest minder programme. This is due to the uncertain nature of the breeding season (a nest can fail overnight resulting in a reduced need for volunteers).
Confidentiality
If you participate in the volunteer programme, be careful who you talk to about kakapo – detailed information could directly jeopardise Kakapo security. Do not speak to the media without first clearing it with the Programme Manager – Kakapo, in the Southern Islands Area Office, Invercargill.
Living communally in a hut
Because the islands are remote and transport is via aeroplane/helicopter; the volunteer roster is for a fortnight period. During this time you will be living communally in a single hut, with separate bunkrooms.
Following instructions of DOC staff, and behaviour on the island.
You must be prepared to adhere to rules that are in place to protect people and wildlife, and to follow the instructions of DOC staff as you go about your work. There are also several rules to protect the integrity and values of the land and wildlife.
Travelling to and from Invercargill or Te Anau
If you are confirmed in the volunteer roster, you will be required to make your own way to and from Invercargill or Te Anau for departure to the islands. To allow time for briefing and the quarantine checks immediately before departure; you may be required to arrive in town the night before your departure day.
Bad weather can frequently affect scheduled service flights. Your return to Invercargill or Te Anau after the fortnight may be delayed by up to two days from the designated return day. Travel plans for your return home must be flexible to allow for this (e.g. AirNZ's "flexi" fares).
Fee
A fee of $250 per person is charged to participate in this programme. This is to help cover the cost of your flights to and from the island and your food for the two weeks duration. This fee will be collected at the Department of Conservation office, on the day of travel to the island.
To volunteer with the Department of Conservation, you must be 18 years or older.