Job description


VSA will organise and fund, flights, visas, insurance, accommodation, living allowance and utilities while on assignment.  Please note VSA Volunteers must be a NZ citizen or permanent resident. Our Purpose | To mātau Whāinga

Te Hono Tangata - Te Huringa Ora. 


Ka hono a Te Tūao Tāwāhi i ngā tūao pūkenga ki ngā whakahaere me ngā hapori i te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa me tua atu, hei tautoko i ngā wawata kua tautuhia ā-rohe, ā, kia tutuki ai te panoni toitū.     Volunteering with VSA | E mau ana ki te VSA For over six decades, Volunteer Service Abroad Te Tūao Tāwāhi (VSA) has been leaving a legacy across the Pacific. Through remote, in-country, and local volunteer programs, we empower volunteers to make a difference, fostering friendships that transcend borders. About Our Partner Organisation | Clean Spatial Solutions

Clean Spatial Solutions (CSS) is 100% Kiribati owned business established with the vision to provide an environmentally and socially conscious business that aims at reducing the impact of waste through a sustainable waste management approach. The company was awarded the government contract to operate the national Recycling System. 


They have two primary portfolios, Waste Management through recycling and exporting and Consultancy Services. The company office is located at Teaoraereke Village, with the waste management operation runs at the Government Material Recovery Facility at Betio Port.


What You'll Do | Mō te tūnga

As a VSA Volunteer, you'll quicky build an understanding of the vibrant culture of Kiribati, supporting CSS with defining a clear strategic direction, a well-articulated mission, vision, and overarching objectives along with methods for performance measurement.


You will help them to develop and articulate a comprehensive strategic plan that is explicitly linked to national development strategies and with the broader objectives of Kiribati’s 20-year vision development plan.


As an e-volunteer you will complete this assignment from your New Zealand base in a part time capacity. You will work with the local partner organisation over the internet and phone to help them project manage the work and coach them to develop the skills they need to achieve the assignment goals.


Your Skills and Experiences | Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako


We're looking for a volunteer with the following:


  • Experience in developing strategic plans and policies
  • Business management experience
  • Understanding of organisational operations across a broad range of functions
  • Strong communication, consultation and mentoring skills

Discover Kiribati

The Republic of Kiribati (‘kee-ree-bus’) is situated in the equatorial Pacific. Spread across all four of the world's hemispheres it offers amazing and unique cultural experiences. It has a population of just under 120,000, half of whom live in the densely populated capital city. The average height of the atolls is just over two metres above sea level, making Kiribati highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.


Volunteering with VSA

For over six decades, Volunteer Service Abroad Te Tūao Tāwāhi (VSA) has been leaving a legacy across the Pacific. Through remote, in-country, and local volunteer programs, we empower volunteers to make a difference, fostering friendships that transcend borders.


How to Apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

Seize this incredible opportunity by applying through our website. For further details on this assignment, reach out to volunteer@vsa.org.nz.


Applications close 26th February 2026


If you are on the VSA website, please click on the download assignment description tab.

What’s included

Included when you join us

VSA organises and fully funds return economy-class international flights between New Zealand and your host country, plus any approved domestic travel connected to your assignment.

You’re covered under VSA’s comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy, which also includes emergency evacuation and personal belongings coverage. Before departure, you’ll receive full information on what’s covered and how to access support.

VSA arranges and funds safe, furnished accommodation throughout your assignment, whether you're in a capital or rural location. A housing checklist ensures your needs are met for comfort and security.

You’ll receive a modest monthly living allowance, paid into a local bank account, designed to cover essentials like food, transport, and utilities. This is in line with VSA’s cost-of-living support for volunteers.

Before you leave, VSA provides a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington, fully funded by VSA. This includes cultural orientation, language training, health and safety guidelines, and logistical preparation to get you deployment-ready

From your first day on assignment, you’ll have strong in-country support from VSA staff, Programme Managers and Coordinators, who provide orientation, security briefings, pastoral care, and ongoing assistance throughout your placement.

Preparation

How to prepare?

Be prepared for a comprehensive recruitment journey. This includes initial screening, background checks, and two interviews, one of which is a panel interview with a subject matter expert. Only after successfully completing these steps will you receive a provisional offer and begin the onboarding process. It’s essential to wait for VSA’s confirmation before making significant life changes, such as resigning from your job or selling property, as there may be delays in immigration or medical clearances.

Once accepted, you'll be invited to attend a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington. This course equips you with tools for success, covering cultural orientation, safety protocols, health preparation, and assignment logistics. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other outgoing volunteers.

Volunteering abroad can be both deeply rewarding and personally challenging. Conditions may be unfamiliar, and change is often constant. Bring flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to learn from others, you’ll grow alongside the community you’re there to support.

You’ll need to complete a health screening and ensure all required vaccinations are up to date. VSA provides medical and travel insurance, but you are also responsible for managing your day-to-day wellbeing. Think about how you'll maintain mental and physical health while overseas.

VSA asks volunteers to become ambassadors for the kaupapa. You will be asked to fundraise $1,000 to support the programme and raise awareness about your assignment. We provide resources and guidance to help you share your story and connect your networks with the impact of your work.

The platform we ask you to use is Raisely.

From visa applications to police checks and health forms, there are a few critical administrative tasks before departure. Our team will guide you through the steps to make sure everything is completed on time and with ease.