The conversation about corporate volunteering in New Zealand has shifted. It's no longer about putting a photo in the annual report. Companies are realising that structured volunteer programmes create tangible value — for employees, for communities, and for the business itself.
The business case
Employee engagement surveys consistently show that people who volunteer through their employer feel more connected to their workplace. They report higher job satisfaction, stronger relationships with colleagues, and a greater sense of purpose.
For companies with social impact reporting obligations — which is becoming the norm in New Zealand — volunteer hours are one of the most accessible and meaningful metrics. Unlike donations, volunteering creates direct community connections that stakeholders can see and understand.
What good looks like
The best corporate volunteer programmes share a few characteristics:
Regular, not one-off. A single team day is nice, but ongoing relationships with community organisations create far more impact. Consider monthly or quarterly volunteering rather than an annual event.
Employee-led. Let your team choose the causes that matter to them. Mandating volunteering defeats the purpose. Offer a range of opportunities and let people opt in.
Properly supported. Give employees time during work hours to volunteer. Cover transport costs. Recognise participation. If volunteering feels like an imposition rather than a benefit, it won't stick.
Genuinely useful. Work with organisations on what they actually need, not what your marketing team thinks looks good. The best volunteer days solve real problems.
Getting started
On Volunteers, you can browse team-friendly opportunities, book as a team, and track your company's impact over time. We're building tools specifically for corporate coordinators who want to make volunteering a regular part of their team culture — not just an annual event.