Cetacean Research Programme Volunteer Position, Kaikōura, New Zealand

Whale Watch Kaikōura is seeking a dedicated volunteer to assist with long-term cetacean research based in Kaikōura, New Zealand, with a primary focus on sperm whale photo-identification.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to an established, year-round cetacean research programme working in one of the world’s most accessible sperm whale habitats.

Dates & Commitment

Whale Watch Kaikōura conducts cetacean research year-round. We are currently seeking volunteers for placements from now through to August 2026. A minimum commitment of three consecutive months is required, with no breaks during this period. The volunteer must be available for approximately 30 hours per week, depending on survey scheduling and weather conditions.

Fieldwork

This position involves participation in boat-based cetacean surveys, with a primary focus on sperm whale photo-identification.

The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in:

• Conducting systematic cetacean field surveys
• Identifying individual sperm whales using fluke characteristics
• Recording behavioural, environmental, and GPS data
• Archiving and managing photo-identification data
• Database use and structured data entry

Fieldwork is conducted from a 24 m tourism vessel and is weather-dependent. Survey days may include weekdays and weekends depending on conditions.

The work can be physically and mentally demanding. It requires flexibility, as there may be periods without surveys due to weather, followed by multiple consecutive field days when conditions are favourable.

This role provides hands-on experience in cetacean research, survey techniques, behavioural observations, and applied photo-identification methods.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys
• Collecting environmental, spatial, and behavioural data
• Data entry and archiving of photo-identification records
• Supporting database management and organisation of research files

This is a voluntary position. Unfortunately, no monetary compensation or living provisions are provided. The successful candidate must arrange their own accommodation, living expenses, travel, and visa requirements.

Prerequisites

Applicants must:

• Be available for a full three consecutive month period (no breaks)
• Be available for approximately 30 hours per week
• Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking, and patient
• Have a mature and independent attitude toward field research
• Be able to work independently and as part of a team
• Speak fluent English
• Be sociable, enthusiastic, and maintain a positive attitude
• Have a strong interest in cetacean conservation and research
• Be comfortable working at sea in variable weather conditions

Qualifications

This position is particularly suited to:

• Upper-level undergraduate students
• Recent graduates
• Graduate students

With academic backgrounds in:

• Marine Biology
• Ecology
• Zoology
• Biology or related disciplines

Required:

• Basic computer proficiency (MS Office)

Preferred (but not required):

• Experience in field research or photo-identification
• Cetacean survey experience
• Previous experience working from vessels

Application Process

Applicants should email krista@whalewatch.co.nz with the subject line:
“Cetacean Research Programme Volunteer Position”

Please include:

• A short statement outlining why you are interested in the position
• Your available dates
• Confirmation that you are available for the full three-month commitment
• Your qualifications and relevant experience
• A brief CV including at least one referee

Early applications are encouraged, as applications will be reviewed in order of receipt.

Ngā mihi nui,

Dr. Krista van der Linde,

Marine Research Programme Manager,

Whale Watch Kaikoura

Dr. Krista Van Der Linde | Marine Research Programme Manager

Whale Watch Kaikōura, PO Box 89, Kaikōura | www.whalewatch.co.nz 

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