Organisation

Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust

Summary

Help restore biodiversity at Irahuka/Long Point in the Catlins. Join a Community Planting Day to plant eco-sourced native trees to protect the habitat for hoiho and other native wildlife.

Description

Te Tautiaki Hoiho, The Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust manage numerous reserves across Otago where hoiho nest or come ashore: Tavora in Waitaki; four on the Otago Peninsula including Okia; and Irahuka Long Point in the Catlins. Their strategy is to prevent harmful encroachment onto hoiho habitat by legally protecting the land as reserves. Today, the organisation manages over 1000 acres of land along Aotearoa's coast. As guardians of these sites, they are responsible for ensuring these coastal habitats are a flourishing safe haven for hoiho.

Irahuka Long Point is on a stunning stretch of Otago coastline. This coastal jewel is a prime penguin nesting habitat with significant natural, cultural and biodiversity values, supporting New Zealand fur seals, New Zealand sea lions, numerous seabirds, rare coastal plants, native forest remnants and an archaeological site. The Trust aims to protect these values while encouraging the expansion of multiple seabird populations, not just hoiho.

The Yellow- Eyed Penguin Trust are holding a Community Planting Day to plant eco-sourced native trees at Irahuka/Long Point on Thursday 17th September.

This site is rugged and exposed but beautiful. Tasks involve digging holes, planting trees and installing plant guards. A morning tea will be provided.

Requirements

• High level of physical fitness

• Willingness to work outdoors on rugged terrain

• Willingness to follow health and safety guidance

• Ability to lift and carry plants and tools as required

• Enthusiasm for conservation and teamwork

• Sturdy footwear, warm, waterproof clothes, sun protection, gloves

• Bring food and water (morning tea will be provided)

• Own transport to Irahuka/Long Point (2 hours south of Dunedin, 30mins south of Owaka).

What to bring

• Long-sleeved tops, long pants and covered footwear

• A sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen

• If wet or cold, bring waterproof layers and a warm hat

• Plenty of food and drinking water

Time commitment

• Thursday 17th September, starting 10am

• Volunteers asked to commit to at least 3 hours (morning tea break included) 10am-1pm. Welcome to stay longer.

• Will be postponed in extreme weather.

How to apply

Email contact Alberta Hall: alberta@yeptrust.org.nz

Please copy (CC) volunteer@otago.ac.nz into your application email. Also, we have a great email template and helpful tips on making an effective application here: https://www.unicrewotago.org/aboutpriceless