Date:  13 December 2017

As the weather heats up here in Hawke’s Bay the Department of Conservation is calling out any keen campers to take on volunteer warden duties. 

Here in the Bay we have several beautiful campsites that thanks to tar sealed roads, people wanting to experience the region’s unique environment can park up their RV and while away the summer hours. 

Currently DOC Hawke’s Bay is looking for wardens at Waitara/Glenn Falls, Everetts and Kuripapango campsites. 

Local Senior Ranger Malcolm Lock says the prime role of a campground warden is to help visitors enjoy their stay in the right way. 

“As a campground warden, you represent the Department of Conservation,” he says. “For many people, you will be the only DOC representative that they will meet. Therefore, you will be expected to act in a professional, courteous manner.  

“Visitors’ opinions of the Hawke’s Bay area, DOC and of New Zealand as a whole will be strongly influenced by the people they meet and deal with.” 

More specifically, Mr Lock says the role of a warden includes cleaning and maintaining the campgrounds and its facilities, and providing information to visitors when needed. 

“In general, the majority of cleaning will be done by wardens and campgrounds should be cleaned on a regular occasion,” he says.  

“It is expected that the campground is to be kept tidy by the campground users, and if this is mentioned during your daily rounds, they generally make an effort. 

“Some parties are excellent, and you will have very little general cleaning to do – however this isn’t always the case.” 

Mr Lock says in addition to ensuring guests have a great stay, volunteer wardens are expected sweep and clean all surfaces with general cleaner in the cooking areas, the picnic areas and they must clean toilets daily. 

If people wish to take us up on this offer, please contact DOC Recreation Supervisor Peter Abbott at pabbott@doc.govt.nz.

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