New Zealand Volunteer Quest

Volunteer in New Zealand: 6 or 12 months

“ It was an experience unlike anything I could have imagined and was nothing like what I expected; that's what made it fun and unforgettable! I would go back in a heartbeat.”

-- Jordan, United Planet volunteer

What makes a United Planet Long-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100 % cultural immersion experiences. Long-term Quest volunteer opportunities begin in August and January of each year and are available to U.S. and Canadian residents of all ages and skill levels.

All Quests include:

Personalized attention and ongoing support from Coordinators
Extensive pre-departure training and in-country orientation
Local home stays or on-site lodging options

We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories. Read on for more detailed information about volunteer opportunities in New Zealand.

Country Information

Seen a Lord of the Rings movie lately? If so, you’ll recognize New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes from scenes in the epic trilogy, including vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fjords and lush rainforests. As opposed to many other English-speaking outposts the world over, the Maori culture of the indigenous people of New Zealand is still visible and celebrated in this small country full of character. There is much to discover, learn and explore in New Zealand! We hope you like rugby, the national sport.

United Planet and the ICYE Federation

For six months to one year, you can experience a life-changing program in one of over 30 countries across the globe. United Planet is the U.S. and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation , founded in 1949. Through their vast network and 60 years of experience, United Planet and ICYE offer a wide range of programs for volunteers from around the world.

Who can apply?

Volunteers must be 18 years of age to volunteer in New Zealand. United Planet can send volunteers who are citizens of the United States and Canada or those who are currently living in the U.S. and Canada. Citizens and residents of other countries must contact the ICYE partner in their home country. United Planet can send people from any country to our Short-term Quest locations for 1-12 week programs. Some of our short-term volunteer placements can be extended for longer stays. Please contact us for more information about volunteering with United Planet.

Volunteer Opportunities in New Zealand

United Planet currently offers social volunteer opportunities in different locations in partnership with local organizations in New Zealand.

Internships in New Zealand now available! Read more.

What's Included and Program Details

Please see the Long-term Prices and Details page for more information on what's included in your program fee.

Quest Program Briefs

Farm projects
Volunteers may work on cow, horse, sheep or beef farms. Volunteers live with the family on the farm, giving the opportunity to experience a very different lifestyle. Daily activities may include feeding and moving animals, milking cows, driving a tractor or a motorbike and other outdoor activities. Prepare to get dirty!

Social work projects
Volunteers can work with intellectually handicapped people, elderly, disabled children or disabled adults. Duties at these projects range from laundry to kitchen work, housework, care giving, and companionship for the residents and helping out wherever needed.

Environmental projects

Volunteers are part of teams that work at restoring, replanting and maintaining the local environment. Volunteers will also help with educating the community that they live in as well as the wider community about the environmental situation in which they are working. Some environmental projects will involve working with the native animals of New Zealand.

Volunteer Accommodations

Volunteers in New Zealand live with host families. When not available, an independent living situation may be arranged.

Learn about the application deadlines and program fees for this Long-term Quest.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help! We'd love to talk to you. Email or call 1-800-292-2316.

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the enrollment form. Then reserve your spot with a deposit (which will be credited toward your program fee).

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, your United Planet coordinator will contact you, and arrange a phone session to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

Scholarships and Grants page for current opportunities and resources.
Fundraising page
Special Discounts