Volunteer Internship
Volunteer Internship
Our Internship Programme is designed for people who have completed Level 1 or Level 2 Marine Guide Training and want to gain hands-on experience in marine tourism, wildlife guiding, guest services, and conservation operations.
This 10–12 week programme gives you real guiding experience, professional development, and a direct pathway to employment with E-Ko or WCA partner operators worldwide.
As a volunteer or intern with one of the 120+ WCA Partners, your skills and attributes will be honed in a positive environment.
WCA Partners are focused on quality Responsible Whale and dolphin experiences and have joined the WCA to be part of that change. We need volunteers who are passionate about helping to ensure our Cetaceans have a Sustainable future.
⭐ Entry Requirement
To apply, you must have successfully completed:
✔ Level 1 – Whale Champion Guide
or
✔ Level 2 – Certified Marine Guide
This ensures interns arrive with foundational knowledge of marine mammals, conservation principles, and responsible tourism — making your practical learning safer and more effective.
Volunteer and internships available globally
🐬 Programme Overview
Duration: 10–12 Weeks (extendable to 24 weeks)
Schedule: ~40 hours per week (7:30am–5:30pm)
Location: Picton, New Zealand – Queen Charlotte Sound
Cost: FREE (Unpaid / Volunteer)
Value: Up to 50 wildlife tours included ($8,400 value)
The programme blends:
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20 hours per week: Guest Services & Tourism Operations
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20 hours per week: Trainee Marine Guide experience (approx. 4 tours/week)
You will learn by doing — on the water, on the dock, in the shop, with real guests, and alongside experienced marine guides.
🧭 What You Will Learn
🎤 Guiding Skills
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Delivering commentary
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Wildlife interpretation
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Conservation messaging
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Educating guests
🐋 Marine Mammal & Wildlife Knowledge
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Dolphin and whale species
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Birdlife identification
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Behaviour & ecology
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Marine Mammal Regulations
🛟 Vessel Skills
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Deck work (ropes, knots, mooring)
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Safety procedures
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Equipment management
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Swimmer preparation & supervision
👥 Guest Experience
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Customer service
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Tour check-in
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Retail & bookings
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Managing gear and questions
🌱 Conservation & Regenerative Tourism
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WCA-aligned responsible tourism
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Wildlife ethics
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Environmental monitoring
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Citizen science involvement
📘 Training Included During Internship
Interns will be supported to progress towards:
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Certified Marine Guide (CMG), or
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Certified Field Guide (CFG), or
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Senior Marine Guide preparation (longer-term)
You will be trained directly by MGT-certified instructors and qualified guides.
💼 Future Employment Pathway
Interns who complete the internship successfully may:
✔ Be offered paid positions with E-Ko
(Subject to role availability)
✔ Receive letters of recommendation to WCA partner operators
120+ partners around the world
✔ Pathway to:
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Level 3 (CFG)
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Level 4 (SMG)
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Level 5 (GT)
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International roles
This internship is designed as a career-launching programme, not just a volunteer experience.
🎁 Internship Benefits
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FREE wildlife tours (up to 50 tours)
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FREE winter activities (skiing when applicable)
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FREE kayak & mountain bike hire
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FREE boat transport for conservation trips
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Access to MGT learning library
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Real experience to build your CV
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Global networking within WCA
🏡 Accommodation Options
Intern accommodation available at:
Piwaka Lodge
Special MGT Rate: $250 per week
Includes:
✔ Breakfast & dinner (two healthy meals per day)
✔ Walking distance from training base
Private flats and homes are also available — list available on request.
📍 Location
Marine Guide Training Headquarters
No 1 Wellington Street, Picton, New Zealand
Queen Charlotte Sound – Home of Hector’s dolphins, dusky dolphins, fur seals, seabirds, and significant conservation locations.
📨 How to Apply
Please send:
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Your CV
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A recent photo
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Your Level 1 or Level 2 completion details
To: paul@e-ko.nz
WhatsApp: +64 29 777 0088
You may also apply via the form on the website.
🐬 Who This Programme Is Perfect For
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International students
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Gap year travellers
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Conservation-minded people
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Aspiring guides
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Future marine biologists
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Those pursuing wildlife tourism careers
