National Volunteer Week 2020 | Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu honours the collective energies and mana of volunteers in Aotearoa. It also celebrates ‘Te Hua o te Mahi Tahi I The benefit of working together’.

National Volunteer Week 21 – 27 June is opened with a powerful message from Minister Poto Williams – “Hapaitia te ara tika pumau ai te rangatiratanga mo nga uri whakatipu | Foster the pathway of knowledge to strength, independence and growth for future generations.”

Watch her full message here.

“I wanted to take the opportunity during National Volunteer Week 2020 to offer up my thanks and appreciation to each and everyone of you for giving up your time to selflessly help others during this last year. And no more so, than during the recent lockdown period.”

“Gratitude to your mana in ably stepping up to support our team of 5 million get through Covid-19 and thrive. You answered the call and stepped and contributed to the wellbeing of the community in a meaningful way.” Poto Williams, Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector.

Nearly 2.5 million of us actively support organisations and other people through volunteering, social action and mahi aroha. This is our opportunity to recognise all volunteers – those that are volunteering currently, thinking about volunteering, or have volunteered in the past.

“The power and potential of volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action shines through at times when our communities are stretched and challenged. New Zealand’s COVID-19 response has highlighted courage and kindness in uniting against COVID-19. Through volunteers, we build strong, resilient and connected communities. This year we recognise Te Hua o te Mahi Tahi I the benefit of working together.” Michelle Kitney, Chief Executive Volunteering New Zealand.