Become Part of the Willowbank Family
Looking for a way to make a difference, gain unique experiences, and be part of something truly special? Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers a chance to join a vibrant team of volunteers dedicated to protecting wildlife and creating memorable experiences for our visitors. Every volunteer here contributes to an environment of learning, conservation, and connection with nature—where you can see the impact of your work every day.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Role Descriptions
Volunteer Animal Care Job Description
Volunteer Visitor Experience Guides
Volunteer Diet Preparation Exotic Job Description
Process of Application
1. Choose a Role
Apply by clicking the link next to the volunteer position you’re interested in. If no link appears, that position is currently full.
2. Application Review
All applications are collated and passed on to the relevant section heads for consideration. Due to the high number of applications we receive daily, we are unable to accept everyone.
3. Interview
If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an interview at Willowbank to discuss the role and your interests.
4. Trial Shift
Successful interviewees will be invited for a half-day trial to get a feel for the role and ensure it’s the right fit.
5. Placement
If the trial goes well, you’ll be welcomed into the Willowbank volunteer team and assigned a start date.
Role Availability:
Farm: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Zoo: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Native: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Kiwi: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Visitor Experience: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Diet Preparation: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re passionate about wildlife, eager to learn, and want to make a difference, we’d love to welcome you to Willowbank. Join us in our mission to protect and share the magic of the natural world. Together, we’re creating a place where every visitor—and every volunteer—leaves with a story worth sharing. Volunteers must be over the 16 years of age, and able to commit to regular volunteering while reliably turning up each week.
Ready to get started? Apply now by selecting an available day and section from above and begin your journey with us!
Other Volunteering Opportunities
We also cater for group volunteer days for groups that wish to give back or do some team building in a unique way. We have several areas in the park that always need a little working bee to help with upkeep.
Email Shaun@willowbank.co.nz for more information.