MEDIA RELEASE
8th December, 2025
Volunteering Services marked International Volunteer Day on 5 December with a fun gathering that brought together volunteers and staff for pizza, kōrero, and plenty of connection, offering a meaningful pause to celebrate and reconnect outside the usual routines.
International Volunteer Day Celebration with Volunteering Services Team and Event Volunteers.
The day recognised the dedication of event volunteers, who help raise awareness about volunteering, and design volunteers, whose creativity brings social content to life. Alberto González and Nicki Gorman were warmly welcomed to the team, while farewells were said to valued volunteers Alex Freeman, Fergus Thamm, Caio Martins, and Meng Gu, who are off to pursue tertiary study in Auckland and Waikato.
(Left to right) Heather, Meng, Nicki, Anita, Caio, and Charlotte promoting all things volunteering at FluroFest Tauranga.
Volunteers Anita Edmondson and Fergus Thamm shared insights into what makes volunteering so meaningful. Anita, who has travelled the world as a volunteer, reflected on the importance of looking after volunteers, saying:
“I’ve volunteered in over 20 countries, from Africa to Peru, doing everything from teaching to farming, childcare, and hostel work. Volunteering takes time and energy, so it’s important we look after our volunteers.”
Anita (left) and Heather (right) supporting event registrations at this year’s Volunteer Star Awards.
Fergus, whose volunteering journey began with event support and community engagement, described the real reward as the act of giving itself, saying:
“The most rewarding thing is feeling like I am being helpful. It feels good to get in there, support people, and solve problems. Volunteering might feel scary at first, but it’s a great way to try new things, build experience, and connect with others.”
Nicki and Fergus ensure every detail is perfect at the Volunteer Star Awards
Their experiences highlight the real impact volunteers have. From organising events and supporting administration, running activities, or advocating for causes, volunteers provide vital support that directly strengthens and sustains communities. With this year’s theme, “Every Contribution Counts,” International Volunteer Day recognises that every act, big or small, adds up to meaningful changes and celebrates the people who make it possible.
The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2026 the International Year of the Volunteer (IVY). This comes 25 years after the last International Year of the Volunteer in 2001, a year that also saw the creation of Volunteering New Zealand. As the world prepares to celebrate volunteerism on a global scale, Volunteering Services continues to recognise and champion the people who give their time, heart, and skills to make Aotearoa a more connected and caring place.
If you’d like to volunteer or your group needs support, Volunteering Services can help. Visit www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.
