Harataonga Beach, Aotea/Great Barrier Island
Image: Andris Apse | ©

Camp host on Aotea/Great Barrier Island

Introduction

Applications are closed for the season.

Far from traffic and city lights, Aotea is the ultimate place to get away from it all. The landscape is rugged and remote, and is one of the Auckland region's last great wilderness areas.

Blog: Previous hosts share their experience on the island.

Date

December to January.

Description

Hosts must be on site at their campground from 8:30 am until 9:30 am to receive a daily weather forecast and answer queries. They then need to be back on site from 2 pm to receive new campers arriving off the ferry and remain on site until 8 am the following morning.

Tasks

During this time your duties and responsibilities will include:

  • helping visitors enjoy their stay
  • collecting camp fees
  • checking visitors in
  • providing general information to campers
  • passing on maintenance requirements to DOC staff
  • scheduled radio communication with the Campground Supervisor
  • ensuring all campers are aware of the rules of the campground and abide by them
  • maintenance of rubbish, recycling and compost facilities that may be present
  • daily cleaning and restocking the ablution block facilities

About Aotea/Great Barrier Island

Aotea/Great Barrier is the largest island off the North Island coast; it lies 100 km northeast of downtown Auckland on the outer edge of the Hauraki Gulf.

More than 60% of the island is public land administered by DOC.

There are a range of short walking tracks and longer routes, several campsites, a hut, mountain bike routes, and many natural and historic features to explore. In addition, Kayaking, diving, fishing, golf, harbour tours, surfing and exploring art galleries are just some of the activities available.

About 850 people live on the island, and there are a number of small settlements and small shops.

The Great Barrier Island website has lots of useful information about the island.

Campsites

There are five campsites available:

We cannot guarantee your requested campground so we recommend you list your preferences on the application form.

What to expect

The position is suitable for single people, couples or families.

Accommodation: Single person accommodation is available at Harataonga, Awana and Medlands campgrounds. At Akapoua and Whangapoua own accommodation must be supplied, ie your own campervan(preferred) or tent.

Indicate on the online form if you will be supplying your own accommodation, so that travel arrangements can be made on the Sealink Ferry. You will also need to provide the height, length and weight of your vehicle.

Note: To maintain the back to nature experience and enjoyment for all, no generators are permitted at campgrounds. Dogs, cats and other pets are not permitted in DOC campgrounds on Great Barrier.

Training: Full training and induction will be provided by an experienced Campground Supervisor who currently manages the campgrounds on Great Barrier Island 

Essential skills and characteristics

Volunteers must have the following attributes:

  • able to relate to a range of people in a friendly manner
  • mature, sensible and have a good, positive attitude
  • fluent in English and have a practical outlook
  • current first aid certificate
  • hepatitis A & B vaccinations.

Induction: At the induction, we will ensure you know your role, issue you with the necessary equipment and make sure you have read, understood and signed any health and safety information.

What to bring: If you are selected you will be given more information about what to bring closer to the time.

What will be provided for you:

  • travel costs to/from the island
  • cost of required vaccinations
  • full training and support
  • DOC camp host identification
  • daily camp booking details
  • a VHF radio, for contact with the Campground Supervisor.

How to apply

Applications are closed. 

To apply complete the online application form. You must also email the following to greatbarrier@doc.govt.nz:

  • a letter of reference from a friend/employer/previous camp host supervisor outlining your suitability for this position
  • proof of current first aid certificate. 

Safety checks

Everyone who applies for this position is subject to a DOC safety check and Ministry of Justice criminal record check. Information about these checks will be provided after you apply.

What happens after you apply

  1. We’ll shortlist applicants and email the safety check form for you to complete.
  2. We’ll contact you about an interview time – the interview will be with a DOC staff member and it’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the role.
  3. We’ll talk to your referees.
  4. We’ll request a Ministry of Justice criminal record check – this takes around three days.
  5. DOC staff will assess all the material provided and decide on suitability.
  6. Once approved we will work with you to find dates that suit you and complete your induction.

Contact

For further information about the application process, email us.

Email: greatbarrier@doc.govt.nz

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