Karl Rollinson and Corey Watkins are performers who moved north from Christchurch at the start of the year. Looking for some inspiring work, and with a love for the natural environment, they signed up for six weeks of volunteer work with DOC. They share their experiences.
In January we made the shift from Christchurch to Levin. We made the move seeking new adventure and creative opportunity.
Karl and Corey
Our intention was to find work, but where to find work was the question. As keen performers, musicians and artists, with a love for the natural environment, we were looking for a job which involved all these things.
By word of mouth we heard about volunteering for DOC. It worked in perfectly with our circumstances and our passions.
We went to DOC in the Manawatu and were absolutely thrilled when they agreed that we could help out. We signed up for six weeks volunteer work.
Oroua river in the Ruahine Forest Park
With help from DOC staff we were able to experience a wide range of activities such as weed control, pest control and track maintenance. We can honestly say there was never a dull moment, and our appreciation for conservation–and our curiosity and insight–only grew stronger as the weeks progressed.
We have an interest in performing in the outdoors and showed DOC staff a video of our House on Fire performance. Impressed by the video, we were asked if our film skills could be used by DOC. We were generously offered transport, food and accommodation at the lovely Iron Gate Hut, which is about one and a half hours drive north east from Palmerston North. Excited by the prospect of adventure, and making a short video, we coordinated a plan for filming and set out.
The sign pointing us to our destination.
When we arrived at the car park at the start of the walkway to our destination, we were dumbstruck by the view. The journey had just begun and we were already in a constant state of awe.
We were pleasantly surprised when we arrived at Iron Gate Hut, and immediately began to make ourselves at home at the tidy, well kept hut. We felt a true state of tranquillity being amongst such beautiful scenery. We paid attention to the sounds of birds in the area and felt extremely comfortable and ready to relax for the night.
The topic of our video, Iron Gate Hut
Being able to film and mix this video has honestly been one of the best things that has happened. The whole process was a really great experience. As for Iron Gate Hut? It’s awesome, see for yourself:
