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12.6 Week
Based on past participants’ experiences, we’ve organized the common themes of learning, reflection, and growth by time period.
What makes this project special
Grow
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PROJECT INTRODUCTION
This project is a volunteer project for environmental conservation throughout New Zealand. You will form a team with international friends to participate in activities such as tree planting, weed removal, seed collection, protection of native plants, forest monitoring, and coastal restoration. Experience volunteering while discovering the endless charm of New Zealand and create your own special experience by visiting various parts of the city!
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* This project involves physically demanding volunteer work, so a high level of English proficiency is not required. Many domestic participants often worry about their basic English skills before joining the project, but once they participate, they find it to be a very enjoyable experience without major difficulties :) As long as you are physically fit, there's nothing to worry about! |
1. The place where the backgrounds of The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and The Chronicles of Narnia were filmed!
New Zealand is a place that movie enthusiasts must visit at least once! It is also famous as a filming location for numerous movies such as The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Wolverine, The Chronicles of Narnia, and many more. New Zealand captures all the natural environments of the Earth, from active volcanoes and hot springs to dense forests, rugged mountains, and glaciers. It attracts us with its relaxed social atmosphere and rich natural environment. But let's stop just looking at it as a tourist! Immerse yourself in New Zealand's natural environment and participate in activities that protect and nurture it. You will feel closer to the Earth and deeply experience every corner of New Zealand.
2. Let's have fun all day long and do community service with friends from around the world through teamwork!
If you dream of making many international friends while traveling abroad, we highly recommend this project! It involves working with friends from various countries such as the UK, France, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia. Furthermore, you will spend time with these friends in teams of 4 to 10 people from the moment you wake up until you go to bed. But don't worry about your English skills! If you have the courage to say hello first, everything else will proceed naturally :) Enjoy mingling with international friends and develop an active mindset!
3. Earth Rangers! Let's protect our beautiful planet with our small efforts!
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New Zealand's mountains, rainforests, lakes, and other natural resources hold immense cultural and biological value. It's not just New Zealand but everyone on Earth who needs to work together to protect them. This project is open to anyone, regardless of their knowledge of the environment, and offers an opportunity to protect valuable natural resources. If you want to spend meaningful time in your life, don't miss this chance to participate!
4. The cleanest country in the world! Heal your body and mind and cleanse yourself!
New Zealand is often regarded as one of the most pristine countries in the world, earning it the title of the last pure nation on Earth. Additionally, data released by the World Health Organization shows that it is the country with the lowest level of fine dust. Escape from cities with constant hazy skies, fine dust, and yellow dust, where even breathing deeply can feel daunting, and come to clean and beautiful New Zealand. Walk around and enjoy the fresh air! From light strolls, jogging, or trekking to the Milford Track — a dream for mountaineers around the world — if you need time to refresh and rejuvenate both body and mind, head to New Zealand now!
■ Grow with the Project
| Week 2 of the Project | Week 4 of the Project | Week 6 of the Project |
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STUDY IT! |
EXPERIENCE IT! |
BREAKTHROUGH! |
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◇ Environmental issues and conservation activities ◇ How to live with international friends ◇ Survival & Conversational English |
◇ Pride in protecting majestic nature with my own hands ◇ Joy of being in nature ◇ Sense of achievement accomplished with friends |
◇ Increased awareness of environmental issues ◇ Understanding of diverse cultures and environments ◇ A more proactive approach to everything |
SUPPORT
Exclusions
- Round-trip airfare
- Transportation between the airport and meeting point
- Personal travel insurance
- New Zealand visa or Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) issuance fee
- Local accommodation expenses beyond the project
- Personal activity tools (sleeping bags, gardening gloves, etc.)
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
■ Project Activities
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Examples of Project Activities: 1. Planting trees and removing invasive weeds that hinder the growth of other plants. 2. Restoring historical sites and wildlife habitats in protected areas. 3. Researching and monitoring endangered plant species. 4. Collecting seeds, growing seedlings, and protecting various types of native and other important trees. 5. Repairing and maintaining national park trails that need reconstruction. 6. Cleaning up trash along the coastline and restoring it to its natural state. |
- The ultimate goal of these project activities is to protect and preserve the environment, and to enhance its resilience through restoration efforts.
- Depending on the local weather, season, and progress of the project, participants are assigned to various activities on a weekly basis.
- Teams are formed for these activities, consisting of one team leader and up to 10 members. Each team leader is an expert with extensive knowledge and experience of New Zealand's natural environment, helping participants adapt easily to the project and activities.
- Typically, those participating in this project are backpackers, students, or local residents from countries like the UK, France, and Taiwan.
■ Project Schedule
- The project starts every Friday at 11 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. on the same day.
- Before starting, participants receive additional training from the team leader about the purpose of conservation activities, procedures, key safety information, and nearby facilities.
- The project usually changes weekly, and participants move to the next project site over the weekend.
* Note that the schedule and timings may change depending on local conditions.
* Schedule Example
| Day | Time | Activity |
| Start Date (Friday) | 11:00 |
Team Introduction and Project Orientation (Safety Training, Activity Explanation, etc.) |
| Saturday-Sunday | All Day | Travel to Project Area, Rest |
| Monday-Friday | 07:00-08:00 | Breakfast |
| 08:00-16:00 | Volunteering(Including Lunch Break, Tea Time) | |
| 17:00-19:00 | Dinner Preparation and Meal | |
| 19:00- | Free Time |
■ Important Notes
- Participants should arrive at the project location by 11:00 AM on the start date to join a 1-hour orientation with other volunteers. Afterward, they will move to the designated meeting point (volunteer accommodation or project site). The first weekend is free time, and the actual volunteering starts the following Monday. Each team will be accompanied by an environmental expert (team leader) with extensive knowledge and experience to ensure safe volunteering.
- Since the project activities are in areas away from the city, essential items include long pants, long-sleeve shirts, jackets, and sunscreen. It is also convenient to bring hiking boots, hats, sunglasses, and personal water bottles.
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>> Choose the Right Area for You! & Examples of Activities by Area This project involves traveling around the selected area and its surroundings, making it a great recommendation for those who want to explore different parts of New Zealand. It's best to choose the area you want to visit first and then select the project area. For reference, Auckland is ideal for northern North Island, Wellington for southern North Island, and Christchurch for traveling around the South Island.
1) Auckland Region: Auckland is New Zealand's largest commercial hub and is ranked as one of the top three most livable cities in the world. If you want to enjoy a representative city of New Zealand, choose Auckland.
2) Wellington Region: Wellington is New Zealand's capital with many beautiful folk restaurants and cafes alive with culture and art. If you want to feel nature in a relaxed city atmosphere, consider choosing the Wellington region!
- South Island: A place to experience diverse nature! The South Island's appeal is not well-known in Korea, but it's popular abroad for its various activities and top-notch natural beauty. If you want a unique, peaceful experience while enjoying nature, consider choosing the South Island! 1) Christchurch Region: Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, features a small harbor and a large, beautiful garden in the city center, earning it the nickname "Garden City." If you want to experience the quiet yet dynamic South Island city, consider the Christchurch region!
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* The activities by area are examples and may be subject to change based on local conditions.
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English Requirement ★ ☆☆ ☆ ☆ This is a project where you will live with foreigners. Basic communication skills like greetings, introductions, and understanding simple instructions are sufficient. However, practicing conversational English will help you engage more deeply with international friends and enjoy the experience even more!
Physical Requirement ★★ ☆ ☆ ☆ This project takes place mostly outdoors and involves physically demanding activities. It's a good idea to check your fitness level before applying for the project. |
" It was really fun to volunteer here!! I met so many different people, and the project team leader was amazing! It will be a memorable experience I will never forget in my life :) "
" Every day was fantastic! I met a lot of incredible people, and the team leader was top-notch!! I laughed a lot and discovered and learned about beautiful plants and flowers. "
" I had a great time doing the project on the South Island. I became close with my team members and developed a greater appreciation for my life and these friends. Through volunteering, I gained incredible experiences of nature's beauty and the fantastic team leader. If given the chance, I would love to volunteer again!! "
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Highly Recommended by Gap Year Planners The project planning intentions developed and overseen by the planners
New Zealand is a truly beautiful place filled with untouched nature. Being amidst endless nature can feel like a healing experience for your inner self. This project is designed for people who have felt hurt or frustrated in life, or who are introverted and shy, to find healing through nature and to boost their confidence and self-esteem by interacting with international friends. (Of course, it's also highly recommended for those who want to marvel at New Zealand's natural environment!)
Moreover, don't just admire the beautiful lakes and mountains; experience how many people and how much effort are needed to preserve them. How about healing your body and mind while receiving positive effects from the Earth and giving back with a small effort out of gratitude? |
* Detailed participant reviews can be found on Gap Year Story (click).
* More participant reviews can be found in the project section under "Participant Reviews."
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
This organization is a non-profit volunteer group that conducts environmental and nature conservation projects across Australia and New Zealand.
Established in Australia in 1982, the organization has engaged over 42,000 people to date and expanded to New Zealand in 2006 to continue its conservation efforts. The organization has received numerous awards for its contributions from the Australian government, the UN, and international associations. It is particularly popular for offering various environmental volunteer projects at affordable prices. Join volunteers from around the world in experiencing New Zealand’s vast nature, demonstrating excellent teamwork, and gaining global social experience.
A Word from the Local Organization Representative
Q1. What is the organization's most significant contribution to environmental protection in New Zealand?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one. We take great pride in our activities, such as planting millions of trees, removing vast amounts of weeds, and protecting/rescuing endangered animals to stabilize their populations. Perhaps our greatest achievement is allowing millions of people to experience volunteering :) We see the passion and genuine commitment of volunteers through their activities in environmental protection, wearing gloves and boots. Our role is to help participants focus on their activities and do them in the most effective way.
Q2. What is the most important aspect for carrying out the project?
The areas where the activities take place are very extensive, so recruiting enough volunteers to conduct projects in places where they are most needed is crucial. Therefore, we always greatly appreciate Korean Gap Year participants who take precious time during their travels to join us in meaningful activities :)
Q3. What is the greatest advantage of this project?
During the project, you will have the opportunity to reflect on the environment and understand its importance. Our organization explains environmental issues to participants and guides them on simple and effective ways to protect the environment. All of this will seep into your daily life. Even if you participate in planting trees along a river for just one day, it will be a significant contribution to the environment. Moreover, you will understand how factors like weeds, erosion, and flowing water impact the environment. If you already know about these issues, you can share your knowledge with other volunteers and help them! I’d describe this project as a collaborative effort where diverse individuals come together to address environmental issues while enjoying the activities.
Q4. What are the most popular areas among volunteers, according to the representative?
1st - Auckland
2nd - Christchurch
3rd - Wellington
* Please note that area preferences depend on personal tastes and can vary with seasons and times. Be sure to check area-specific information and weather before deciding on your preferred location.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
Accommodation varies depending on the region and project location. Typically, volunteers stay in accommodations such as hostels, tents, cabins, or campgrounds. Sleeping bags and mats are required and can be prepared by the participants. As accommodations are shared with team members, a sense of community is essential.
For meals, volunteers will prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner using provided ingredients and will be expected to participate in cleaning up and washing dishes after meals. This time provides a great opportunity to interact with other participants and is often one of the most anticipated parts of the day. Meals generally consist of New Zealand-style ingredients (e.g., toast and cereal, tea or coffee for breakfast; sandwiches and fruit for lunch; grilled meat, pasta, or vegetarian options for dinner). Accommodation is provided from the project start date (Friday) and is not available on the end date (Friday). Participants should prepare simple cooking recipes to share with their team members, which can enhance the experience.
| Shared rooms (4-8 people) / Shared bathrooms / Wi-Fi provided at volunteer accommodations and hostels (not available at campgrounds or cabins) |
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location : New Zealand
New Zealand, a Country Embracing the Earth! New Zealand consists of two main islands: the North Island and the South Island. The North Island has many large cities, whereas the South Island is renowned for its high mountain ranges, breathtaking cliffs, and picturesque lakes. Particularly, despite being a small island, the South Island has diverse climates and offers unique features such as temperate rainforests and perennial snow. The majestic landscapes of the South Island are also famous as filming locations for movies like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Additionally, New Zealand's isolation from continents has led to a unique ecosystem with flora and fauna not found elsewhere. This has attracted researchers and NGOs from around the world for study and conservation purposes.
Top 3 Recommended Travel Destinations by the Planner
Eligibility
- Anyone aged 18 to 75 in good physical health
- Basic communication in English is required!
- Anyone interested in environmental issues and nature conservation
- Anyone eager to experience the grandeur of nature firsthand!
- Anyone who wants to engage in daily life with diverse international friends!
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Recommended target audience by the planner Working in a team with people from various backgrounds is truly exciting. However, it can also be challenging. Even when exhausted from long hours of outdoor activities, you will need to engage in cooperative living with friends from different cultures. This experience, though sometimes uncomfortable, is highly recommended for those who wish to seek valuable and unique experiences. The experiences gained from environmental volunteering are unforgettable. |
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ The minimum participation period for this project is 1 week or more .
■ The cost of this project can be found at the top of this page, where detailed prices are provided by duration and option.
* For popular projects, there may be no availability, so please apply early to secure your spot.
■ Gap Year Mission ( ▶ Learn More )
■ Payment by Installments
If you have difficulty paying the full amount, please make an advance payment of 500,000 KRW and pay the remaining balance within 2 weeks. Based on the date of the advance payment, we will proceed with the process for confirming participation and check availability and TO. Securing your spot early is important for participating on your desired date and duration! (Refunds are not available once participation is confirmed)
* Note that if the start date is approaching, the schedule for paying the remaining balance may change depending on the situation.
■ Early Bird Discount and Urgent Application Guide
It is recommended to apply for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the project start date due to the normal procedures and preparation time. The principle is to apply no later than 2 months in advance. However, if urgent participation is needed, you can opt for the urgent application service by paying an additional fee, and we will assist with the fastest possible processing.
* Although we will assist with the fastest processing possible, there is a basic time required for communication with local institutions and confirmation of participation. All procedures are conducted in the same manner as general participants, so those using the urgent application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year Operation Team.
** Applicants who apply more than 180 days before the start date will receive an Early Bird Discount.
*** The urgent application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries regarding the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.
- Services Provided: Gap Year Mission and Notes Automatic Application / Full Provision of OT Materials Upon Confirmation / Additional Emergency Staffing / Support for Required Documents, etc.
* For those who have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
**Note: In cases of extremely urgent applications, there may be no TO due to local circumstances, and subsequent procedures will follow the refund policy of Gap Year. Also, any issues arising from the participant's lack of cooperation will be the participant's responsibility.
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