Karori Wildlife Sanctuary

  New Zealand

• Wellington: 
Wellington

Term: Throughout the year 

Description: Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
Help restore the giants of the forest and return the native bird song to Wellington! In this internship you will assist in leaving a lasting natural treasure for generations to come. As in almost all parts of the world, Wellington's original forest ecosystem has been dramatically altered by a number of catastrophic occurrences, including forest fires, farming, and the introduction of alien predators. This project is an ambitious conservation effort to affect positive change on the environment. To this end, volunteer restoration teams have already planted thousands of trees. In addition, the on-going construction of trails--the Kiwi, Restoration, and Wilderness Trails--provides exceptional opportunities for current and future visitors to experience an ecosystem almost lost.

Historical records show that in pre-European times, the lowland forests of this area probably contained up to fifty species of native birds. Since that time, thirty-eight of these species have either become extinct or are no longer present in the area. The challenge of the Sanctuary is to re-establish the forest chorus through native bird release programs, including that of the much-loved national icon, the kiwi. Help these committed conservationists make this Sanctuary a world-class visitor facility. With involvement in trail construction, species monitoring, pest control, weed management, and public education, you will be part of a conservation project truly pushing the boundaries of conservation science.

Highlights: see above

Qualifications: good health, adventurous spirit

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to New Zealand Independently

Institute for Cultural Ecology's Mission Statement: The Institute for Cultural Ecology was founded on the conviction that visits to exotic destinations imply a commitment to cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship. Our programs match the interests, academic goals, and passions of the participant to select host organizations and researchers. Once you connect with a place and its people, they become a part of you. Forever.