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Ministry for Pacific Peoples — Cook Islands Māori Language Week

Flexible volunteer assignments that create real impact

We collaborate with local partners to shape each assignment. Opportunities vary by skill and location, so check our listings regularly to find a role that fits your experience and expertise.

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Traditional

Traditional assignments involve volunteers living and working in Pacific communities for 12 months or more. Volunteers share their skills directly with local organisations, building trusted relationships and understanding through daily life and work. This immersive model supports long-term, sustainable development by aligning with local partner priorities and fostering deep, people-to-people partnerships.

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Blended

Blended assignments combine the best of both worlds: in-person connection and remote support. Volunteers spend time on the ground building relationships, then continue the work remotely from Aotearoa New Zealand. This flexible approach allows assignments to adapt to changing needs, while still ensuring continuity and impact for our local partners.

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e-Volunteering

eVolunteering allows volunteers to contribute from Aotearoa New Zealand, offering their skills remotely to support Pacific organisations. Volunteers typically commit 5–20 hours per week to projects in areas such as business development, education, IT, and communications. It’s a practical way to make a real impact—especially for those unable to travel.

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Accompanying partner

Volunteers on in-country assignments are welcome to bring a partner with them. Through the Accompanying Partner programme, partners are encouraged to engage in community life, local volunteering, or support activities. This enhances the overall volunteer experience and strengthens the social and cultural ties within the host community.

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Teams-based

Team-based assignments bring together a group of volunteers—often with complementary skills—to work on a shared project. These assignments are ideal for larger or multi-disciplinary initiatives where collaboration and diverse expertise are essential. Teams may be deployed in-country or operate in a blended model, depending on the project’s scope and needs.

Latest volunteer roles

Make a real difference on the ground—explore our latest in-country roles across the Pacific and beyond, and use your skills to support communities where they’re needed most.

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Give Today. Strengthen Tomorrow.


When you donate to VSA, you're helping communities across the Pacific build the skills and knowledge they need to shape their own futures.


Your contribution supports experienced volunteers working alongside local people – strengthening healthcare, education, climate resilience, livelihoods, and more. It’s about practical support, real partnerships, and long-term impact.


Every donation, big or small, helps create stronger, more self-reliant communities.


Be part of something that lasts. Donate today.