Consider citizen science
Helpful science - helping nature
Citizen Science is a buzzword you may have heard but not really know what it means or how it works. Basically it’s the average person, like you or me, recording our nature observations in a place that researchers and scientists can also access, to help them with their work and projects, especially in nature conservation, where the more knowledge we have the better we’re able to help.
Bird Counts
Bird counts are an easy and fun way for everyone to get involved with protecting birds. Sites like https://ebird.org, an online database of bird observations provides scientists, researchers and amateur naturalists with real-time data about bird distribution and abundance and they are easy to use, providing valuable information to people all over the globe.
https://ebird.org/atlasnz/about/how-to-atlas was setup to monitor New Zealand bird populations over a 5 year period in order to provide up to date information for the conservation of our native birds - and anyone can get involved.
25 June – 3 July 2022. Gift an hour of your time to help New Zealand’s birds. Done every year at the same time the https://gardenbirdsurvey.landcareresearch.co.nz/ is undertaken to see what is happening with the birds in our backyards and helps Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research to make decisions to protect our environment.
Helping other species
https://www.inaturalist.org/places/new-zealand is a more all-round site where you can id an unknown find or search for a project that interests you and get involved. You can even start your own initiative. Learn about nature while helping scientists working to understand and protect the environment.
The above websites are but a few of the myriad of groups contributing to conservation through citizen science so ask around and get involved in a local science project. It is fun and you will feel proud knowing you are contributing to saving the lives of the plants and/or animals you chose to help.
What our other guests had to say
it's a wonderful place to relax in nature. Gordon and Janine are very nice hosts. We were allowed to explore the entire grounds and were able to observe and photograph many local birds. Thanks again for the great time!
Astrid, Neckargemünd, Germany
We had a great stay in the Pekapeka Tiny House at Earthlore. We only stayed one night, but it was just what we needed for a weekend roadie through the Catlins. Quiet and peaceful. Gordon is a great host. Great communication and met us on arrival to make sure we had everything we needed and then...
Charles, Queenstown
A great place to stay, such a beautiful property and such kind hosts! Would stay again.
Janae, Berkeley, California