FAQ's
Below are a few common questions. Please contact us if you have any questions that are not addressed below.
About the Tauira Mahi Conservation Training Programme
What is Tauira Mahi Conservation Training?
Tauira Mahi Conservation Training follows our successful Bay Conservation Cadets program and provides two learning options:
1) Online conservation training units, undertaken at your own pace
2) One or two day in-the-field, in-person training units, based in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
Our training units are real world/industry led rather than accreditation led.
How is this program different to other conservation training?
We have industry leaders and educators that understand conservation from a real-world point of view. They have the key skills needed on the ground and we are able to adjust our training quickly to respond to the ever-changing challenges in conservation.
Who is this training for?
It’s ideal for:
- Conservation volunteers looking to deepen knowledge and skills
- People wanting to start a career in conservation
- Iwi/hapu team members delivering projects
- Existing roles like land management officers, rangers or tourism personnel looking to diversify knowledge
- Anyone passionate about protecting Aotearoa’s natural environment
What topics are covered?
We have training for many aspects of Conservation, from the practicalities of managing a project, to learning about our ecology and everything in between. Our training units will evolve over time, see All Courses for details on current courses available.
Where is the training held?
Online training units are available to anyone in Aotearoa or in any other country.
In-person training is delivered across the Bay of Plenty. Check all courses to see which courses are in your Bay of Plenty district.
What is the difference between the online and in person training? The topics look the same.
We know that learning in the field – doing practical skills with skilled people who can support your learning – is way better than learning online. The two types of learning – in person and online – are complimentary and not either or. Although each can be stand-alone training we recommend do both to help your learning and fit into a flexible world.
Who are the tutors?
Our tutors all have decades of conservation experience, a background in adult education and most importantly are ready to share their passion for protecting our Taiao/environment with you! To learn more about our tutors click here, or watch this short video.
Before I enrol I have some questions:
Who is the training designed for?
- Conservation volunteers looking to deepen knowledge and skills
- People wanting to start a career in conservation
- Iwi/hapu team members delivering projects
- Existing roles like land management officers, rangers or tourism personnel looking to diversify knowledge
- Anyone passionate about protecting Aotearoa’s natural environment
Are there age requirements?
Our programs are adult orientated, (18 years old or over).
Do I need previous experience?
No, but we do encourage you to check if the training unit is beginner or intermediate level and consider if online learning may be helpful in advance of in-person training.
How will I be assessed?
Online learning includes suggested self-led activities and quiz assessments. No exams are associated with our training units.
In-person training units will include activities to cement learning throughout your day.
Do I get a qualification?
Our training units are not NZQA certified This has been a conscious decision as it allows us to be more flexible to the current needs and skills required on the ground. We have been led by the needs of the conservation industry.
All students receive a Tauira Mahi Conservation Training Completion certificate for completed units and courses.
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How is a typical online course structured?
An online unit/course is broken into 4 to 6 modules. Each module usually has an online reading component, Downloadable study notes, a ViewTorial (video tutorial), Self-led activities and either a quiz within each module or at the end of the unit.
Units vary in size and therefore also in cost.
How is a typical in-person course structured?
An in-person course is usually one or two days and starts between 7:00am and 9:00am and finishes between 1:00pm and 4:00pm. (Each course is slightly different.)
Once enrolled you get access to how you can prepare for the day.
There you will find precise information about where to meet and what to bring with you.
It will give a more detailed description of your day and there may be a suggested online reading/webpage resource for you to look at before you arrive.
You will also be able to access the announcements area which will give any updates should things change due to unforeseen circumstances. (e.g. unfavourable conditions etc.)
In-Person Training Questions
Do I need to be physically fit for the in-person field courses?
A reasonable level of fitness helps, as fieldwork can involve walking, lifting, and outdoor tasks.
Please see each course overview for more information and contact us if you want further course | fitness requirement information.
What gear do I need for the field courses?
Each course will require slightly different gear, and it will depend on the season as well.
You will need sturdy boots or trail shoes with good grip, (not open-toed footwear such as jandals or sandals), outdoor clothing suited to the activity and that give protection from the elements, (rain/sun), any personal medication, a water bottle, your food and a day pack.
Once you have enrolled you can access and download your gear list to help you prepare for the day/s.
Can I do in-person training days back-to-back?
Yes - you can! But we recommend giving yourself a few days between training days to digest and cement what you have learnt first.
Do I get any information to take home from in-person training days?
You will get PDF handouts to take home for most of the in-person training days, as well as your certificate.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather is not looking great or there's another circumstance which results in needing to cancel the day, there will be a notice in the 'Announcements' tab on your course page no later than 8:00pm the night before. Please ensure you check for any course related news or updates by 8:00pm the night prior.
Cancellation Ts & Cs
Withdrawal from Field-Based Training Policy
If you need to withdraw from a field-based training unit you must inform us in writing via email or our contact form.
If you withdraw 7 days or more prior to the date of the field-based training unit, you will be given the option to either transfer your enrollement to another date or receive a full refund.
Withdrawal less than 7 days before a training event , or 'no shows' on the day will not be eligible to a refund.
Unforeseen Circumstances
Withdrawals due to unforeseen circumstances will be considered for postponement of refund on a case-by-case basis. Communication is key.