Organisation

Green Track Group

Purpose

The Green Hut Track Group is an inspiring and dedicated crew! Founded back in 1998, they have been clearing tracks almost every Wednesday since, rain or shine. They have 30 odd members involved in different ways, and on average a group of 10 members who head out together every Wednesday.

Description

The Green Hut Track Group cover a large area, visiting different tracks across the region. There isn’t a backcountry track in Dunedin that they don’t help DOC or the Dunedin City Council to maintain - and they're always open to new members who want to help their efforts!

You could participate in some or all of the following tasks:

• Clearing steps

• Digging/forming steps

• Raking debris off the tracks

• Cutting back foliage, grasses and bush with shears, hand saws and pruners

• Using axes and other tools to tackle overhanging branches impeding the tracks

• Digging ditches or drains to help with drainage

• Track building and minor shaping of tracks using grubbers, shovels and spades

Training & Support

• Whatever skill and experience level you bring, the team will provide the appropriate training for you

• They are willing to upskill you in use of equipment if you wish to learn and get involved in more tasks

• You will learn by shadowing an experienced volunteer for your first couple of shifts

• You will always have at least 1 other experienced volunteer with you for support

• Gloves and tools required will be provided to you

Why do it?

• You'll enjoy connecting with others who share your passion for the outdoors and actively making a difference

• A sense of fulfilment knowing that you are helping to keep Dunedin walking tracks safe and accessible for all to enjoy

• Being a part of a collective effort that enhances the environment as well as both personal and community wellbeing

• You will have the opportunity to learn new skills and share what you know with others

Please indicate in your application if you have a preference for certain tasks or any particular skills you can contribute.

Requirements

• Be relatively fit and in good health

• Ability to walk on tracks and uneven surfaces in all conditions

• Able to work with a small team and support the balance of the team in all circumstances

• Able to follow instructions on equipment use and all health and safety processes

• Able to carry your own hand tools and food for the day

• Must be able to walk up to 1 to 1.5 hours each way

• Bring your own weather appropriate tramping gear: small day pack, warm clothes, footwear and rainproof jacket (Conditions in the Silver Peaks and Silver Stream catchments can change quickly)

• Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are important as conditions can be wet and slippery

Time commitment

• Able to commit to regular ongoing attendance (at least once every 2-3 weeks)

• Regularity and continuity is important to maintain volunteer skills and team building

• The team meet every Wednesday, departing Dunedin about 8:30am, return by 5pm

• Volunteers will be provided with pick-up point and time of meeting information

• In some instances, the team can support with transport to the location of volunteering if needed

How to apply

Contact Pete Smith / stoneleigh806@gmail.com

Please CC in 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