Below is a list of commonly asked questions about getting involved. The answers are a bit further down.
Please note that although this FAQ is designed to be helpful it is not a complete discussion nor a substitute for legal advice. It may not cover important issues that affect you and, depending on your situation, you may wish to contact us for further information or advice.
Volunteer programme
- How can I find out about volunteering for DOC?
- Can overseas visitors get involved in volunteering?
- Does DOC cover my expenses if I'm a volunteer?
- How can I become a hut warden?
You may also be interested in reading our FAQ about jobs at DOC.
Students and teachers
- Can you help me with information for my school project?
- Do you have free posters/resources available for school classrooms?
- Do you provide information for university students' and academics' research projects?
- How can I get DOC documents and publications?
Donations
- How do we donate to conservation?
- What funds are available to help with private conservation projects?
Volunteer programme
How can I find out about volunteering for DOC?
Read our volunteer programme web pages. They provide comprehensive information about DOC’s volunteer programme, including information about current volunteer opportunities throughout New Zealand.
back to top
Can overseas visitors get involved in volunteering?
Yes, DOC enjoys the help of many international volunteers every year. Volunteer opportunities are listed on this website. If you see a project you would like to volunteer for, contact the relevant DOC office to see if there is a space for you.
back to top
Does DOC cover my expenses if I'm a volunteer?
Each project is different but volunteers usually need to cover their own expenses. Accommodation may be provided for longer projects at remote sites. Specific details about each volunteer opportunity are provided on this website.
back to top
How can I become a hut warden?
Current hut warden opportunities are listed on this website. View information on what is required, what is provided, and how to apply.
back to top
Teachers and students
Can you help me with information for my school project?
Look on this website for information to help you with your project. We do not have additional resources available at DOC to help you.
If you don't find what you need on our website, try broadening your search. There are a lot of great websites out there. Your school library, local library, or regional council may also be able to help.
The Natural Heritage Collection website is a good place to find photos of New Zealand nature that you can use for your project.
back to top
Do you have free posters/resources available for school classrooms?
Most of our education resources are available on our for teachers pages. Our factsheets, posters, teacher resources, and video clips can all be downloaded free of charge.
Free posters are sent to schools for Seaweek (March) and Conservation Week (September) each year. Seaweek posters can also be downloaded from the Seaweek website.
More images and resources:
back to top
Do you provide information for university students' and academics' research projects?
The DOC website covers all aspects of conservation science and management. Our publications pages are a good place to start.
From time to time, DOC has opportunities for tertiary students to help with research projects. Due to resourcing constraints, we are not usually able to offer research funding grants. To find out about potential research projects in your area or subject field, contact your local DOC office, or conservED@doc.govt.nz.
Other places to contact for potential research projects and funding grants:
back to top
How can I get DOC documents and publications?
If you are looking for a particular DOC publication check the publications section of this website. Many of our publications are available for viewing and downloading here.
If the publication you want is not on our site then check with your public library. The library will either have a copy in their collection, or be able to help you find and request it from the National Library. All DOC publications are legally required to be deposited with the National Library.
back to top
Donations
How can we donate to conservation?
You can donate to one of DOC’s priority conservation programmes or to a project managed by a conservation partnership or trust that DOC is involved with. Find out how you can
donate to conservation.
back to top
What funds are available to help with private conservation projects?
You can apply to several funds to help start a conservation project on private land. Find out more about funding for private land owners.
back to top