Celebrate volunteering during National Volunteer Week 2026
National Volunteer Week, 14-20 June 2026, is Aotearoa’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.
This week is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and appreciate the millions of volunteers who enrich Aotearoa New Zealand. This year’s theme, Your Year to Volunteer – Tōu tau ki te tūao, has been chosen to mark International Year of the Volunteer 2026.It both recognises those who are volunteering, and prompts others to start.
Key Messages
- National Volunteer Week (14-20 June) is New Zealand’s largest celebration of volunteers and volunteering.
- This year’s theme, Your Year to Volunteer – Tōu tau ki te tūao, has been chosen to mark International Year of the Volunteer 2026.
- It both recognises those who are volunteering, and prompts others to start. Volunteering strengthens the fabric of our communities, connecting individuals, whānau, and organisations across Aotearoa.
- Volunteers play vital roles – as coaches, caregivers, emergency responders, community builders, environmental champions, and more.
- By recognising and valuing volunteers, we help foster a culture of appreciation and encourage everyone to volunteer in some way.
- Let’s celebrate the diversity of volunteers and the collective strength of mahi aroha and social action in our communities.
Actions you can take
>> Get resources from our National Volunteer Week campaigns page.
>> Use these tools to:
- Say thank you to volunteers
- Promote events or activities
- Share stories and social media posts
- Encourage others to get involved
>> Download our NVW2026 Comms Pack and start spreading the word
>> Be inspired by our 15 ways to celebrate National Volunteer Week one-pager
Contact us for more help.