A view of Mansion House with some people standing on the lawn with gardening equipment.

Kawau Island – 5-day volunteer programme

Introduction

Help with maintenance of the Kawau Island Historic Reserve and the exterior of Mansion House.

The 5-day programme during school holidays is suitable for Duke of Edinburgh Gold residential placements.

Tasks

Tasks include:

  • track maintenance
  • spreading gravel
  • clearing drains
  • tidying and pruning vegetation from paths
  • washing or painting buildings
  • beach clean-ups.

2025 dates

  • 16–20 April*
  • 21–25 April*
  • 30 June–4 July – Cancelled due to wallaby-possum control activity
  • 9–13 July – Cancelled due to wallaby-possum control activity
  • 22–26 September – Cancelled due to wallaby-possum control activity
  • 1–5 December

*School holidays to suit Duke of Edinburgh students. 

What to expect

We're looking for volunteers with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. A low-medium level of fitness is fine, but a medium-high level will ensure a more enjoyable experience.

Expect a minimum of 6 hours work each day. This leaves free time to swim, fish, and explore.

Transport: Return ferry fare of $40.00 – this is a discounted rate for volunteers.

Experience: If you have gardening, building, or other practical skills and experience let us know and we will tailor tasks to suit if possible.

What to bring: A full gear list will be provided once you have booked a placement.

How to apply

Use the volunteer application form to register your interest. We'll confirm if we have place for you.

Volunteer application form

Duke of Edinburgh student applicants should add the name of their school in the additional comments on the application form.