Taking on volunteers

A volunteer is someone who does not expect to be rewarded financially for their work, although they may receive reimbursement of expenses.

We believe our students/graduates offer valuable skills and knowledge and therefore paid work is preferable. However, we recognise this may not be possible for some organisations.

Although volunteer work is more commonly associated with Not for Profit Organisations (NPOs), other organisations may also take on volunteers.

You can advertise your volunteering opportunities free of charge on NZUniCareerHub

Guidelines and legalities

The following guidelines demonstrate best practice when recruiting volunteers. These are guidelines only.

A volunteer is not regarded as an employee, but they do get protection under Health and Safety in the Employment Act 1992 in most situations, and volunteers are covered by ACC for any accidents.
View further information on the Department of Labour website
Working arrangements need to be mutually agreed upon in advance. Written agreements are recommended.
Please refer to the Department of Labour for more information
The placement needs to aid students in building their skills and knowledge and provide them with an opportunity to be exposed to a professional career they are interested in. It is important that tasks closely match the student/graduate's career goals and the skills they would like to acquire.
Voluntary work agreements are for a limited period. The period can vary, with about three months the typical duration.
It is advisable to discuss beforehand the nature of the tasks involved and preferably agree on them in writing.
Students/graduates need to receive basic orientation at the start of the volunteer work as well as ongoing training. Ideally a mentor will be appointed.
The organisation is limited in terms of what they can expect from the volunteer. For instance - though regular hours may be worked - they cannot really be enforced. Much depends on the volunteer's level of motivation and commitment.
Providing feedback about how the tasks are being performed is usually very helpful, and can aid volunteers in improving their effectiveness.
Students need access to basic equipment in order to do the tasks required like a desk, chair, comfortable space, etc.
Even though volunteer work is unpaid, it is customary that the employer makes the programme worthwhile to volunteers in other ways by covering their expenses, providing training, and supplying a verbal and/or written reference. The reference should include a brief description of the tasks completed, comments on effectiveness and associated skills, any specific achievements or contributions, and personal qualities exhibited that contributed to a successful outcome.
Volunteering tasks should be in a central area and should not be high risk.