Clutha planting days
Join DOC on a day out restoring and enhancing habitat for the native freshwater fish species that call the lower Clutha River/Mata-Au catchment home.
Dates
Planting days typically occur October – April.
Description
DOC, together with Contact Energy and rural landowners, are improving freshwater habitat within the lower Clutha catchment. Our focus is on ensuring tuna/longfin eel, kanakana/lamprey, inanga/whitebait and giant kōkopu continue to have healthy, productive waterways to call home.
We are planting specific areas in the catchment to enhance habitat and give better shade, shelter and food sources so populations of these special native fish can grow and thrive. The plantings will also help stabilise edges, manage sediment, beautify areas and provide vegetation for insects and bird life.
The current project sites are on the banks of beautiful meandering streams, rivers and lagoons on private farms.
What you’ll be doing
A day out in the field with our rangers will mostly involve planting native species such as harakeke/flax, purei/Carex sedge, tī kōuka/cabbage tree and toetoe. It might also involve laying out plants in the best places for growth and survival, as well as the important task of official photographer, to record the good work being achieved.
The lower Clutha planting days offer a great opportunity for hands-on involvement in important local conservation projects. As well as visiting beautiful locations, you’ll be improving the health of freshwater ecosystems and helping secure a future for the remarkable species that depend on them.
Where
You’ll be working in either:
- the lower Clutha River/Mata-Au catchment area, 1 hour south of Dunedin, or
- around Waitahuna, 1 hour west of Dunedin just before Lawrence on SH8.
Transport can be provided and will leave from John Wickliffe House, Princes St, Dunedin.
What's provided on the day
- Transport if required
- Health and Safety guidance and activity training
- Tools
- Gloves
- Tea and coffee
What to bring
- Long-sleeved tops, long pants and covered footwear
- A sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- If wet or cold, bring waterproof layers and a warm hat
- Plenty of food and drinking water
How to apply
Register to volunteer by completing the online application form.
Someone will be in touch with you about this at the start of the season.
Contact
If you are interested in this activity or other volunteer opportunities in the region, contact volunteerscoastalota@doc.govt.nz.
Volunteering at this Event?
Log your hours here! Create a log of your volunteering for your member portal. Don't worry if your plans change, you can update your details from the Members Portal for up to 7 days after the event.
NOTE: This is not an application process. Application processes may vary, please check the listing for how you can register for this event.
