New Zealand Conservation Volunteer

I’m currently working as a sales adviser, and I also serve as a pastor. Before this, I worked for six years as a security officer. I’m married and a proud father of four boys. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about responsibility, teamwork, and caring for others — values that I believe also apply to protecting nature. When I discovered Pupu Rangi Nature Sanctuary, it immediately caught my heart. I see this as a great opportunity to give back, to serve, and to learn more about the world we’ve been blessed with. My background in security taught me discipline and how to stay alert, while my pastoral experience reminds me every day to lead with kindness and respect. I want to be part of something meaningful — to help preserve the forest, protect wildlife, and support a good cause with both my hands and my heart. I also hope to share what I learn with my family and community, especially my sons, so they too can grow up understanding the importance of caring for our environment.

This was one of the coolest experiences of my life. Octavian is one of the most interesting people I've ever met and he will stimulate you to rethink many things that you'd usually gloss over. I developed immensely as a problem solver during my time here, and also partook in many thought provoking conversations. You will meet other volunteers from all over the world and learn about their different cultures. The remoteness is mentally refreshing. At the camp you will be roughing it, but I found it very comfortable and invigorating. You will get to see some amazing sights around the Northland. And of course, you will work in an absolutely amazing new Zealand forest, with DOC experts, and you will get plenty of opportunities to see kiwi, some of the most rare and unique birds on the planet. You will be appreciated and you will develop as a person on this project.