VSA Interest Groups are open to anyone who is interested in the work of VSA and the International Development sector. VSA Interest Groups are generally made up of people who have previously volunteered with VSA, VSA members or people who are interested in the work of VSA and the International Development sector. They provide connection and engagement at a local level, pre and post volunteering assignments for new volunteers, who can capitalise on their collective experiences and knowledge. They carry great working experience and insights on what volunteering is all about. They are also involved in community advocacy and fundraising for the work of VSA.
These are informal groups led by Co-Convenors who organise get-togethers, events and talks, and make decisions about how the groups run.
Click here to get more information on Interest Group Co convenor roles or email us on info@vsa.org.nz.
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, Jane Kinsey, and Robyn Lambert are the Co-convenors 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 Marian 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 and Rosie Wheeler, who are the Co-Convenors 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.