About Volunteering

Why Volunteer?

When you volunteer, you’re not just helping others, you’re making a real difference in your community. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills, and feel the satisfaction of giving your time to causes that matter.

Volunteering keeps you active, boosts your wellbeing, and it’s genuinely fun!

Make a Real Difference

Support the causes you care about and see the impact you make in your own community.

Connect and Belong

Meet new people, be part of a team, and build friendships through shared purpose.

Grow and Thrive

Gain valuable skills and experience, boost your confidence and stay active.

Volunteer as an individual

Browse our volunteer roles across Canterbury and find one that suits your interests, location, and availability. 

It’s quick and easy to request up to three referrals at a time. 

If you’d like a hand choosing, call us on (03) 366 2442 or get in touch.

Volunteer as a group

If you enjoy working as part of a team, group volunteering is a great way to make a real impact together.

From one-off projects to ongoing partnerships, local schools, businesses, and community groups have helped with everything from gardening and graffiti clean-ups to food and curtain sorting.

Interested in getting your group involved? 

Call us on (03) 366 2442 or email us to chat about upcoming opportunities.

Other ways you can get started

Start Your Volunteer Journey

Learn what volunteering’s all about with Volunteering NZ's Introduction to Volunteering (PDF).

Volunteering Matters Newsletter

Get inspired by real volunteer stories, upcoming events, and helpful tips. Subscribe

Support your local op shop?

Explore our Charity Op Shop Map. Your purchases and donations help people in your community.

Please note that volunteering opportunities are only open to individuals within New Zealand. If you are overseas, feel free to explore opportunities now and get in touch when you arrive. For more information, visit Immigration New Zealand.

Search the Volunteering Canterbury Website