Organisation

Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust

Summary

Help restore habitat for hoiho and other native fauna at Tavora Reserve in Goodwood, near Palmerston in Otago. Join a Community Planting Day to plant eco-sourced seedlings.

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.

Tavora Reserve near Palmerston is an important Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust restoration site where decades of native planting have helped transform land once heavily modified by intensive farming into habitat for endangered hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins).

The Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust are holding a Community Planting Day to plant eco-sourced seedlings at Tavora Reserve on Thursday 27th August 2026, to increase biodiversity, support waterway health, and improve habitat.

Tasks involve digging holes, planting trees and installing plant guards. There is a short 5-10 minute walk to the planting site. A morning tea will be provided.

The planting will be postponed in extreme weather.

Requirements

• Willingness to work outdoors and 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

• Food and water

• Own transport

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 27 August 2026

• 10am-1pm (welcome to stay longer or shorter)

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