On Saturday 3rd June a keen team of 16 volunteers boarded the Explore Ferry to make their way across the sea to Tiritiri Matangi. After settling into the bunkhouse, some bird watching, lunch and a health and safety briefing Talia, the Department of Conservation Ranger set up the working groups. Armed with shovels, shears, secateurs, hedge trimmers and wheelbarrows we tackled the long overdue maintenance on the upper Wattle Track. After a couple of hours with the odd interruption of kōkako, toutouwai/ robin and other wildlife we had a yummy shared dinner.

We continued where we left off on the following day and we made amazing progress. In the evening some went exploring or put their feet up. Others went for a night walk and found tuatara, kororā/ little penguin, kiwi pukupuku/ little spotted kiwi, pāteke/ brown teal and wētā punga.

Monday was our last day and was spent packing, cleaning and finishing off some jobs before another stroll around the special island.

Thank you to Paul, who set up a yoga session in the Visitors Centre.

Supporters Working Weekends

The Department of Conservation and the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi greatly appreciate your participation in our General Maintenance Volunteer program. The work of volunteers is an integral part of the island’s success as one of Aotearoa’s oldest island sanctuaries, and in participating, you have contributed to the vital work of New Zealand’s conservation story.

Working Weekends are a wonderful way to help, get to know the island better and be part of what is happening on Tiritiri Matangi. Hosted by some of the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi’s most experienced guides. Outside of the working hours your time is your own. You could explore the more remote parts of the island, or have a swim and a snooze. Activities may include a night walk or a dawn chorus outing.

If you are interested in taking part in one of our working weekends, you have to be a member of the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi. All enquires and bookings for working weekends can be made through the Guiding Manager by emailing shop@tiritirimatangi.org.nz or phone 09 476 0010