VSA Interest Groups are open to anyone who is interested in the work of VSA and the international development sector. Often Interest Group Members have previously volunteered and can provide new volunteers with the benefit of that experience. We encourage new volunteers to connect with VSA Interest groups if there is one in their area before going on assignment. Indeed, we encourage those completing their assignments to also become VSA Interest Group Members.
More generally VSA Interest Groups provide a way for like-minded individuals, supporters, former volunteers, VSA members and anyone with an interest in international development to connect and engage at a local level, or around a specific interest, to support VSA’s work.
These are informal groups led by Co-Convenors who organise get-togethers, events and talks, and make decisions about how the groups run. They are also a contact for participants, and anyone interested who wants to meet together. Some groups organise fundraising activities, using the money raised to support VSA’s work across the Pacific. Details of the current groups are below
You don’t have to be a VSA member to enjoy the benefits of being involved in an Interest Group, although we do encourage you to join to support the work of VSA, its volunteers and partners.
Te Waipounamui / South Island
Katapere / Canterbury
Simon Pollock and Alice McCabe are the Co-convenors. Regular events are hosted for people interested in international development and to share stories of volunteering. Everyone is welcome. Please email vsa.chch@gmail.com for more information and follow VSA on Facebook for ongoing information.
Top of Te Waipounamu / Top of the South Island
Carol Hulse and Robyn Lambert are the Co-convenor and Charles Lambert is the Treasurer for this active Interest Group with speaking and social events held throughout the year. Please contact Carol at colandcar@yahoo.co.nz, Robyn at robyn_lambert@hotmail.com and/or Charles at charleslambert13@gmail.com for more information. Everyone is welcome!
Te Ika-a-Māui
Manawatū
Hilary Smith, Lesley Batten, and Marion Bland are the Co-convenors of the Manawatū Interest Group. All of a wealth of experience in international development and volunteering and the group comes together to share stories and support global development, particularly in the Pacific Region. Please contact the Co-convenors at vsa.manawatu@hotmail.com
Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland
With a large number of people interested in international development situated in Tāmaki Makaurau, this Interest Groups offers the opportunity to come together to discuss and support the work of VSA and its volunteers. Please contact Jan Kennington who is the Convenor for this group on vsa.auckland942@gmail.com
New Interest Groups
Are you interested in forming a new Interest Group to connect with like-minded people and return volunteers in your area? Get in touch with VSA and we can help guide and support you through the steps, including contacting return volunteers in your area.