Overseas Volunteers

The Sisters of Compassion have a history of providing opportunities for volunteers for over 100 years. In recent times people from outside of New Zealand have applied. The overseas volunteers (see Johanna) have been very worthwhile and have provided an opportunity of cultural exchange both for the sisters, their co-workers and the volunteers. This process has value in that people from around the world learn to understand others from different cultures in a safe environment. The benefits of this are long term in good relationships around the world.

As a volunteer it is your responsibility to:

make an application for a visa (see note below): check out www.immigration.govt.nz to find out what you require
have a paid return air travel ticket
have health insurance or some other arrangement for your health expenses
agree that there is no financial reimbursement for your voluntary services to the Sisters of Compassion
be responsible for your personal expenses
accept the values of the Sisters of Compassion and do not do anything to put at risk the sisters’ philosophy or values

The Sisters of Compassion will provide you with:

a volunteer placement at one of the Sisters of Compassion facilities or communities
accommodation with the sisters or their co-workers and you will have the opportunity to share in the normal community experiences
your meals either at your volunteer place of work or with the sisters, if you prefer you can cook your own meals in the community kitchen
a contact person to ensure that your living and volunteer placement is well-matched with your needs and skills
local travel tickets and reimbursement of expenses related to your volunteer placement will be provided by the Sisters of Compassion

Please note:

The Immigration Office in Wellington New Zealand have advised that because the Sisters of Compassion provide overseas volunteers with full accommodation that this is seen as an exchange for the volunteer’s services and consequently a volunteer requires a work visa. Some countries have a provision for a three months option. Other countries do not have this option and it has proved impossible to gain a visa for a volunteer. It is important that your first step in making an application to be a volunteer with the Sisters of Compassion in New Zealand is to find out if it is necessary for you to have a visa or permit. www.immigration.govt.nz