Doing voluntary work
Doing voluntary work in the community or for a not-for-profit organisation is a very good way to meet people and build up work experience in New Zealand.
Many community groups need qualified people for specific work which they otherwise have to spend hard-won funding on.
By volunteering, you can make use of your professional skills while you search for work, acquire new skills in an area of work you would like to move into, or pursue an area or activity of interest.
Working for a not-for-profit or community organisation can help to:
- Learn and practice New Zealand work styles
- Gain experience in understanding New Zealand English speaking styles
- Practice speaking and writing english
- Experience and grow used to New Zealand social styles
- Demonstrate abilities in a New Zealand context
- Establish new networks that may lead to new job opportunities
- Prove capability to managers, for use in your CV or for future references
All sorts of opportunities
New Zealand has a vibrant and diversified volunteer sector. You may find there is a need for volunteers in an area that you are interested in. Other ways to find volunteering opportunities in your community are to check the community boards at your local hall, community centre, library or shopping centre.
To find out more, contact Volunteering Now, your local Citizens Advice Bureau, or visit the Volunteering page on the Work and Income website.
