With summer around the corner and people and wildlife converging on our beaches, community rangers are back to help people keep safe and look out for wildlife and care for the environment.

The three rangers who work for the Dunedin City Council and the Department of Conservation will be at a number of popular beaches and outdoor environments during the day, as well as evenings, weekends and public holidays.

The community rangers are there to help; they have useful knowledge about the values of sites, the wildlife there, and the bylaws in place to help protect these areas for everyone. They will remind visitors about our rules to retain the special qualities of our coast and the safety of people and wildlife sharing it.

They will provide advice on freedom camping, ways to safely avoid sea lions and remind people that driving on beaches is not permitted. Dog owners will be reminded that their dogs must be on a lead near wildlife and in specified locations.

Please check for signs when visiting our beaches. The community rangers can be easily identified by their green uniforms. They will be happy to talk and educate visitors, share and hear stories, and provide wildlife safety tips.

The rangers will be working until the end of April 2024.