Here in New Zealand, volunteering roles are as diverse as the people who step forward to fill them. Whether your passion lies in caring for others, protecting the environment, supporting the arts, or strengthening community services, there are countless ways to get involved and make a meaningful contribution close to home.
Volunteering is a powerful and positive way to build stronger, more connected communities. By giving time, skills and compassion, volunteers help shape a future that is inclusive, resilient and sustainable. In recognition of this, the United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Volunteer, highlighting the essential role volunteers play in achieving positive social, environmental and economic change.
If you’re looking for a new way to connect with you community, here are some organisations with branches throughout New Zealand who would greatly appreciate and benefit from your time and skills.
Caring for your community
Hospice New Zealand provides free specialist palliative care to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring this care remains accessible to all. From supporting hospice shops to helping with fundraising events such as the Antiques and Collectables Auction, volunteers enable Hospice New Zealand to continue its vital work. Behind the scenes, volunteers assist with sorting, cataloguing and preparing donated items. Every role, big or small, helps make a difference.
Another organisation addressing an equally important need is Age Concern. Its Visiting Service connects volunteers with people aged 65 and over who may feel isolated or lonely. Volunteers commit to spending about an hour each week with their matched senior, building genuine friendships based on shared interests and mutual respect. These visits have a proven positive impact on wellbeing, offering companionship, connection and reassurance. Volunteers of all ages are welcome, with training and ongoing support provided.
Supporting access to advice and advocacy
The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is a cornerstone community service, offering free, confidential information and advice to anyone who needs it. Staffed largely by trained volunteers, CAB helps people understand their rights and obligations, navigate life challenges and access services. Volunteers work directly with clients, providing information across a wide range of topics, or support the behind-the-scenes running of the bureau. With flexible shifts and comprehensive training, this is a rewarding opportunity for those who enjoy helping others find clarity and confidence.
Protecting our coastlines
For those drawn to the outdoors, organisations like Sustainable Coastlines offer hands-on ways to care for our environment. Their Nature and Beach Clean-ups bring volunteers together to restore coastlines, while building community connections.
With the goal of achieving 60 percent less waste on our beaches by 2030, Sustainable Coastlines empowers communities to take action throughout New Zealand. To date volunteers have removed more than 1.8 million litres of litter from coastlines across Aotearoa. Removing this litter from our marine environment makes for happier ecosystems and healthier wildlife.
Helping animals and their humans
SPCA New Zealand is dedicated to improving pet welfare and supporting responsible ownership. Volunteers can assist with rehoming pets, fundraising events, animal care and fostering or volunteer to work in one of the many the SPCA shops throughout New Zealand.
No matter if you are in Kerikeri, Auckland, Wellington or Invercargill, SPCA is looking for volunteers up and down the country. You can volunteer at one of the 27 centres, 13 vet partnerships, and over 90 shops as well as being based from home.
Empowering people and building skills
Enabling Good Lives (EGL) works to empower disabled people and their families to have more choice and control over their lives. Rooted in the principles of dignity, inclusion, and self-determination, EGL supports people to define what a “good life” means for them and access supports that align with their goals. Volunteers and supporters help strengthen networks, promote inclusive communities, and ensure disabled voices are heard and valued.
Educare Training Trust provides free training in the education and support sectors, helping people move into meaningful employment. As a charitable trust, Educare relies on community support, including volunteers who assist with practical tasks such as sorting donated clothing for trainees or helping digitise records as the organisation moves toward paperless systems. These roles support learners behind the scenes and contribute directly to long-term community wellbeing.
Strengthening community connections
Meet the Need connects farmers with food banks, ensuring nutritious protein reaches families experiencing food insecurity. Volunteers can become “Champions”, representing the organisation at events, encouraging donations and helping fill local food bank fridges and freezers.
There are 12 Access Radio stations throughout Aotearoa that offer volunteers the chance to share stories, languages, and passions with the wider community. From broadcasting to production support, volunteering with Access Radio helps ensure diverse voices are heard across Taranaki and beyond.
Finding the right volunteering opportunity for you
Volunteering isn’t one-size-fits-all situation. Some roles are hands-on and outdoors, others quiet and supportive. Some require weekly commitment, while others are flexible or event-based. What they all share is the chance to connect, contribute, and be part of something bigger.
If you’re not sure where to start, Volunteering New Zealand can help match your interests, skills and availability with opportunities across the country. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, give back, meet new people, or support a cause close to your heart, there’s a place for you in your local volunteering community.
In this International Year of the Volunteer, there’s never been a better time to get involved and help New Zealanders thrive.
