Every June, Aotearoa celebrates National Volunteer Week by recognising volunteers’ incredible contributions to our communities and encouraging more Kiwis to get involved.
This year’s theme, Whiria te tangata, celebrates how volunteering connects us. Volunteering brings people from all walks of life together and strengthens the communities we live and work in. From rural towns to urban centres, marae to mosques, volunteers are the quiet heroes shaping a more inclusive, resilient New Zealand.
Why Employers Should Get Involved
Volunteering isn’t just good for the community, it’s good for your workplace too. By getting involved in National Volunteer Week, you can:
- Foster a positive workplace based on compassion, empathy, teamwork and purpose
- Provide opportunities for team bonding
- Supports employee wellbeing as giving back boosts morale and a sense of belonging
- Builds stronger relationships between businesses, their employees and the communities they serve.
- Put your company values such as being socially responsible or people-focused into action
- Adopt a culture of appreciation and inspire future generations to give back
Ways to Celebrate and Contribute
1. Say Thank You to Volunteers
Whether your staff already volunteer or you work alongside volunteer-based organisations, a little recognition goes a long way:
- Present certificates of appreciation
- Share social media posts or blogs highlighting local volunteers and their impact
- Send a thank-you card or handwritten note
- Host a morning or afternoon tea
- Write a blog post recognising your team’s contributions
- Give a small gift as a token of gratitude
2. Support Volunteering in Your Workplace
- Offer volunteer leave days or allow flexible hours for staff to give back
- Organise a team volunteering day during National Volunteer Week
- Encourage team members to share their own volunteering stories
3. Partner with Community Organisations
Reach out to local non-profits or community groups to see how your team can lend a hand. Even a few hours can make a big difference.
Some organisations to consider:
- New Zealand Red Cross
- Food banks and community kitchens
- Habitat for Humanity
- Environmental conservation groups or clean-up events
- Animal shelters
- Youth or elderly support services
4. Share the Impact
Storytelling is a powerful way to inspire others to act. Share photos and quotes from your volunteering initiatives, spotlight staff members who give back, or even invite a local volunteer to speak with your team.
The Impact of Giving Back
National Volunteer Week is more than just a celebration, it’s a reminder of how small actions create stronger communities when woven together.
As an employer, you have the unique opportunity to lead by example. Whether through recognition, time or team action, your support during National Volunteer Week helps celebrate the spirit of giving back and sends a clear message: community matters.