Volunteers play a significant role in any response and recovery operation, particularly after large-scale disasters. Becoming a volunteer can be a great way to learn some new skills and give back to your community.
New Zealand Response Teams (NZ-RTs)
The teams are qualified first responders. They support Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups and their communities during and after emergency events. The Manawatū-Whanganui region is home to the NZ-RT4 team based in Palmerston North and to the NZ-RT22 team, based in Rangitikeī.
View these links for more information, including how to join these teams: NZ-RT4 and NZ-RT22
Volunteer with our Partners
We also work with our partner agencies such as Red Cross, Salvation Army, Neighbour Support and many others who provide services and know their local community well. They are a great place to start if you want to volunteer assistance.
Whatunga Tūao | Volunteer Central
Whatunga Tūao | Volunteer Central is a trust established to develop a volunteer centre for parts of the Manawatū-Whanganui Region.
They can put you in touch with a number of volunteering opportunities in Palmerston North City, Manawatū District, Horowhenua District and Tararua District.
Land Search and Rescue
Land Search and Rescue is a national volunteer organisation which provides search and rescue assistance to the lost, missing and injured across Aotearoa New Zealand. All volunteers are given professional training.
With 70 local groups across the country, along with specialist disciplines nationwide, there are many volunteering opportunities available through Land Search and Rescue.
Other opportunities
Depending on the district you live in, there may be other changes to volunteering before, during and after an emergency. Your local city/district council can offer options on where you could volunteer your time.