From patient support to creative projects, find out how you can get involved as a hospital volunteer.
Every single day across Wellington, Kenepuru and Hutt Hospitals, our dedicated volunteers provide care and support for hundreds of patients and their families. With more than 590 active volunteers, they assist through a variety of specialised roles, from guiding patients to appointments to offering comfort through pet therapy, music and other forms of emotional support.
Last year alone, our volunteer guides helped more than 57,000 patients find their way to appointments. Our talented volunteer knitters and crafters lovingly created more than 12,000 items, including beautiful merino wool booties, blankets and hats for newborns. Volunteers also provide critical ward-specific support in many areas of our hospitals, including emergency, intensive care, the children’s hospital and neonatal intensive care. Our volunteers truly are at the heart of our hospital community.
Below are some key volunteer roles across our hospitals, but there are many other unique opportunities available. If you’re compassionate, reliable and ready to help, we’d love to discuss how you can make a real difference.
By joining our team you’ll become part of a larger network of people committed to making every hospital visit a little easier and every patient feel a little more supported. Whether you’re drawn to hands on roles or creative projects like knitting for newborns, there’s a place for you here.
When my children were young I had a car accident and spent some time in hospital. I was there for over 3 months and the support of all the people within the system had a lasting impression on me. Volunteering on the ICU reception has me focussing on supporting the families of patients. From the smallest gesture of making a cup of tea, or giving a kind word, through to providing a link to the medical staff, it helps people feel less stressed. When I come away from my shift, I feel so good because I have made people a little more comfortable at such a horrible time. - Lorraine, Wellington Hospital volunteer
A lot of folk are very scared coming into the hospital, and they are very vulnerable. As a volunteer I like to make them feel welcome, that they have a friend and they don’t have to be alone. On the wards people are so lonely, some get no visitors for such long periods of time. As a volunteer we are there to listen to them and ask questions so they can talk. I have a much better appreciation of life and the many ailments people are impacted by. I used to be scared of hospitals but not now. I've also made some lovely friends. It is good for me as I am on my own at home. – Bob, Hutt Hospital volunteer
My background is a lifetime of nursing. I trained at Hutt hospital and nursed there for 40 odd years. I then became a research nurse for Swee Tan at Gillies McIndoe Institute until I retired. I started volunteering as I wanted to give something back to society and thought I had useful knowledge and experience to share. The best part of my volunteering is being part of a team that help’s patients when needed, providing conversations and making them feel comfortable during their stay. I have also made new friendships with other volunteers which has been really lovely. - Merie, Kenepuru Hospital volunteer
Meet some of our team and explore volunteer opportunities.
Hospital guide.
Emergency Department volunteer.
Intensive Care Department volunteer.
NICU Cuddle Buddy.
Ward volunteer.
Shop volunteer.
Volunteer musician.
Volunteer knitter, quilter and sewer.
Event volunteer.
Pet Therapy.
Children's hospital volunteer.
Volunteers in action.
Frequently asked questions.
We ask volunteers to commit to at least one three hour shift per week. This helps ensure consistency for our patients, staff and volunteer teams.
Volunteers gain meaningful work, training, strong support and the opportunity to be part of something truly rewarding.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Some roles may be available from age 17 with guardian consent.
To join us you’ll need to provide references, complete a background police check (based on photo ID), and attend an interview with one of our friendly Volunteer Managers.
We’re looking for kind hearted individuals who enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life. A good understanding of English is required, as it ensures smooth communication with patients, staff and other volunteers.
Onsite parking is available during your shift. Volunteers also agree to the use of their photo in Wellington Hospitals Foundation's marketing materials.
Start the process by applying here.