We would love to have you join us to help restore the beautiful Motutapu forest.

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions from new volunteers. If you have more questions, please email us.

What Days Can I Volunteer?

We typically run two weekend volunteer work days each month on Sundays. You can see our Sunday dates for 2026 here.

We also run volunteer days on weekdays (usually Wednesdays and Fridays) for individuals and corporate groups of up to 16.

How Do I Sign Up?

If you would like to join us on a specific Sunday, weekdays or have a corporate group enquiry, please email us with your details.

If you are interested in volunteering but not yet sure which days you can attend, register your interest as a volunteer. We will then email you each month reminding you of upcoming weekend volunteer opportunities.

What Will I Do?

Throughout the year there are opportunities to work in the nursery growing native seedlings, as well as undertaking weed control removing pest plants from areas that have previously been planted so the new forest can flourish. In the winter months (typically late April to mid September) there are also opportunities to plant native trees to expand the forest.

What Does the Work Involve?

Nursery work involves a variety of nursery activities including transferring seedlings into PB3 bags and general nursery maintenance. The work is suitable for all levels of fitness.

‍Weeding involves control of a variety of weeds including mothplant, rhamnus, woolly nightshade and wattle in the forest. This work is often on slopes and in dense forest. A good level of fitness is required. Sturdy footwear and clothes covering arms and legs are recommended.

‍Planting is often on slopes and a good level of fitness is required, but people of all ages can help out. We encourage people to work together, some digging holes or carrying trees, others doing the planting. Sturdy footwear and clothes covering arms and legs are recommended.

How Do I Get There and How Much Does It Cost?

We usually take a Fullers Ferry from the Downtown terminal/Devonport to Rangitoto. We then drive to our base on Motutapu from where we head out to our activities for the day.

The ferry leaves Auckland at 9:15am on weekends and public holidays, returning to Downtown about 4:30pm. Weekday times are 9:30am departure and 3:30pm return.

Fullers generously sponsor a discount on tickets to Rangitoto - $37 return for adults and $17 return for under 15-year-olds (as at 1 February 2026).

Can Kids Come?

Due to the nature of the work we do and the logistics of moving volunteers around the island, unfortunately the day is not generally suitable for children under 10. Older children are welcome with their parents or guardians.

How Many People Can You Take? Do You Take Corporate Groups?

We have room for up to 24 people on a normal volunteer day. We welcome corporate and other groups - our maximum group size is 16 to allow space for our volunteer leaders.

What Do I Need to Bring and Wear?

• Bring your lunch and plenty of water to drink. There are no shops on Motutapu or Rangitoto!
• Bring sun cream and a sun hat in summer, a raincoat in winter.
• Wear old clothes as you will get dirty. Long sleeves and trousers are strongly recommended as they will protect your arms and legs from scratches and cuts.
• Wear sturdy footwear that is clean of soil and seeds. We often work on steep or uneven ground.
• We have first aid kits but bring any medication you may require especially if you are sensitive to grass and pollens.
• We provide all the tools you will need, including gloves. If you prefer to bring your own gardening gloves, please make sure they are clean of soil and seeds.

You will need to bring your gear in a pack or bag that can be zipped and sealed so that no unwanted creatures like Argentine ants, rainbow skinks or mice can hitch a ride to the island.

Got More Questions?

Email us with any questions.